Residents of Janesville are buzzing with anticipation as the GM/JATCO Redevelopment Advisory Board convenes to discuss the future of the former GM plant site. Lindsey Bittorf, a local resident with deep family ties to the area, expressed her eagerness for new developments that could benefit the South Side community. “I have a young child, so I’m hoping for something good to come in for the help the South Side,” she stated, highlighting the personal stakes many residents feel regarding the redevelopment.

City Manager Kevin Laner, who has been with Janesville for two and a half years, emphasized the significance of this redevelopment process. “This is a very unique opportunity to participate in a collective engagement process to help determine the future of a very important piece of property within the city,” he said. Laner’s enthusiasm reflects the community's hopes for revitalization and economic growth in the wake of the plant's closure.

As discussions continue, the board aims to address the needs and aspirations of local residents, ensuring that the redevelopment aligns with the community's vision for a brighter future. The outcome of these meetings could shape the landscape of Janesville for years to come, making it a pivotal moment for the city and its residents.