WAUSAU, Wis. — The Economic Development Committee voted Dec. 2 to move forward with the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) certified sites program to make parcels on Wausau's Innovation Way business campus more marketable to developers.

Patrick Gatterman told the committee the city has about 99.5 acres in its business campus, roughly 70 acres of which are developable after excluding wetlands. WEDC regional director Linda Osterberg described how certified sites provide third-party due diligence — geotechnical work, archaeological reviews and other studies — that reduce uncertainty for prospective developers. Osterberg said the program is a long-term investment that helps communities attract large projects and that WEDC is piloting a grant this year to cover some due-diligence costs.

The committee moved and approved proceeding with the certified sites application. Gatterman said the program also includes access to a site selector and marketing support that can help present the site to national and international prospects.

The committee did not take final action on cost-sharing or contract terms; staff said the WEDC grant may cover a significant portion of upfront due-diligence expenses in the pilot year and recommended moving ahead while funds are available.