Redevelopment of the downtown business district has been a key focus of both city and business leaders. The city has received several grants to create pedestrian friendly park space, walking trails and a boardwalk that work together to connect the Luce Line trail, the Crow River and, several parks into the fabric of the business community. The city has also worked with local businesses to create design standards for buildings, and received nearly $750,000 in grant money from the state to aid in downtown rehabilitation. The rehabilitation project recently closed with nine buildings using the funds to significantly enhance the quality of their buildings.

In addition to the grant, three other properties have seen major improvements in the downtown district. Two beautiful new structures, joined by a skyway, have added new anchors to the already thriving district and one structure receiving a complete reconstruct both inside and out.

The city has begun the process of creating long-range redevelopment plans for the south end of Lewis Avenue in the heart of the city that will provide greater commercial, office and residential options in the already beautiful downtown area.