The Village of Ashwaubenon is gearing up for a significant overhaul of its public facilities, with a proposed master plan that could reshape the community's infrastructure over the next decade. During a recent Village Board meeting, officials unveiled a comprehensive recommendation that prioritizes improvements to public works, public safety, and village hall facilities, with an estimated total cost exceeding $100 million.
The plan outlines four key priorities. First, the public works facility is set to receive a major expansion, with a proposed budget of over $24 million. This includes renovations and new construction to better accommodate the village's growing needs. The second priority focuses on public safety, suggesting the construction of a new facility to enhance service delivery and response times, with costs projected at around $38 million.
Village Hall renovations rank third, aimed at improving customer service and accessibility, with an estimated cost of approximately $6.4 million. Lastly, the plan includes updates to Fire Station 2, which could be relocated to the existing public safety facility, potentially at minimal cost.
Village officials emphasized the importance of a phased approach to these projects, with public works slated to begin construction in 2026. They acknowledged the financial challenges ahead, noting that while the total costs are daunting, strategic planning and the potential for retiring existing debt could provide funding opportunities.
The board is now considering the recommendations and will explore funding options, including potential grants and bonds, as they move forward with the budgeting process for the 2026 fiscal year. The community's input will be crucial as the village navigates these significant developments, aiming to enhance services while managing costs effectively.