City of West Bend Downtown Master Plan

The City of West Bend is transforming from a manufacturing-based community into a vibrant, walkable destination. The Downtown Master Plan aims to address the surge in development interest, particularly in multifamily residential projects, and to build on recent enhancements to the Riverwalk along the Milwaukee River. These improvements have revitalized the historic downtown, making it a focal point for outdoor recreation and cultural events. With the Riverwalk nearing completion, the community’s focus has shifted to creating a cohesive downtown area that meets the needs of residents and visitors alike.

The last downtown-focused plan was produced in 1999, and the riverfront vision was last updated in 2006. After a 17-year gap, the City decided to pursue a new Downtown Master Plan to guide future development. This Plan serves as a resource to achieve the vision of celebrating downtown as the heart of community life and heritage.

Our firm played a crucial role in developing this comprehensive Plan, addressing development pressures, economic transitions, and the challenges of a struggling retail economy. Through a collaborative 10-month process, we provided a coordinated vision that alleviated apprehensions among investors and community members.

The Plan examines every aspect of the downtown area, offering a detailed overview of the community’s current state and future direction. Designed to guide decision-making for the next 10-20 years, the Downtown Master Plan ensures that West Bend’s downtown remains vibrant and community-focused