Southern Wisconsin Times

The City of Janesville is celebrating a major milestone for the Woodman's Center after Governor Tony Evers announced the award of $15 million for the project. This historic investment into our community will be instrumental in constructing the sports and convention center, which will become one of Southern Wisconsin's most significant gathering spaces.

Once built, the Woodman's Center will attract sports teams, regional and national companies, and organizations for meetings, conferences, and trade shows. At 130,000 square feet, the facility will become an economic impact driver for Janesville through job creation, revitalization, and resource conservation while increasing property values and tax revenues.

"The City would like to thank Governor Evers for supporting the Woodman's Center and believing in Janesville," said City Manager Kevin Lahner, reacting to the announcement. "This is a huge accomplishment not only for the City but everyone who has worked on this project." 

The Woodman’s Center will operate as a public facility, offering amenities to Rock County, greater region, and the State.

• Main Arena
  •  1,500 Spectator Capacity
  • Year-round ice for hockey, skating, and other activities
• Multi-Purpose Arena
  •  250 Spectator Capacity
  • Adjustable Space - Featuring ice, hardcourt flooring, and indoor turf
• Multi-Use/Conference Space
  •  20,000 square feet
  • Space for trade shows, conventions, expos, banquets, and community events
  • Space for basketball courts, volleyball courts, pickleball, open gym, and more

The State of Wisconsin's contribution is a critical component of funding for the Woodman's Center, bolstering the project's existing financial commitments from the City, Federal government, and private donors.

The City is excited to advance the transformative development, which studies estimate will create 228 full-time equivalent jobs, $7.2 million in personal income growth, and $23 million in annual economic impact. 

"I'd also like to express my gratitude to members of the City team, especially Public Works Director Mike Payne and Neighborhood & Community Services Director Jennifer Petruzzello, for their dedicated effort on the project," said City Manager Lahner. "Along with our community partners, the City is excited to enter the next phase of planning, which puts us closer to a completed project." 

Additional information about the project is available on the City's website at www.janesvillewi.gov/woodmanscenter. 

For questions, contact the City Manager’s Office at (608) 755-3177.

Original source can be found here.