City of Sun Prairie Continues to Make Significant Investments in Downtown

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – December 6, 2024
Jake King
Communications and Diversity Strategist
jking@cityofsunprairie.com
(608) 332-5397

City of Sun Prairie Continues to Make Significant Investments in Downtown

The City of Sun Prairie is excited to announce that on Tuesday, December 3, City Council approved a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) agreement to support a mixed-use redevelopment at the northwest corner of Bristol and Main Street. Led by JCAP Real Estate, this transformative project will provide additional housing, hospitality, and dining options to downtown, aligning with the goals of the City’s Sun Prairie Stronger Plan.

The $41.4 million development will include a four-story building with 100 apartment homes and a four-story Cobblestone Hotel featuring 63 rooms and an on-site Wissota Chophouse restaurant. The Cobblestone Hotel and Wissota Chophouse are expected to be completed by mid-2026, with the apartment building anticipated to be completed in mid-2027. This project marks a major investment in revitalizing the Bristol and Main Street intersection while also serving as a tribute to those impacted by the 2018 downtown gas explosion. A memorial will be located on publicly owned land at the corner of Main and Bristol.

“City staff and council members have worked diligently to bring this project to life, ensuring it aligns with the City’s vision,” said Taylor Brown, Economic Development Director. “With 100 new homes, a hotel, a restaurant, and a commemorative piece, the development will boost downtown activity, support local businesses, and strengthen the employment base.”

This project is one of several major investments in Downtown Sun Prairie, with additional enhancements planned for the 100 and 200 blocks of E Main Street in 2025 as part of the Capital Improvement Plan.

Main Street Pedestrian Safety Improvement Project

With construction beginning in 2025, the Main Street Pedestrian Safety Improvement Project will focus on improving pedestrian safety by widening sidewalks, upgrading the crosswalk at Main and King Streets, and restricting certain traffic turning movements. Additional features will include decorative paving, enhanced landscaping, and the creation of a merchandising zone to support businesses with outdoor displays and dining areas. The initiative will improve ADA accessibility to local storefronts, ensuring greater inclusivity for community members. Ultimately, the project aims to revitalize East Main Street and surrounding areas, enhancing the pedestrian experience to better meet community needs. Construction is set to begin in 2025.

Monarch on Main

The City previously assisted with the redevelopment of the southwest corner of the Bristol and Main intersection for the newly opened Monarch on Main building, boasting 92- luxury apartment homes and nearly 9,000 square-feet of first floor commercial space. The building was presented as a first phase, in which a second phase would occupy the neighboring Sun Prairie Utilities property once their new building has completed construction.

“These investments in Downtown Sun Prairie will enhance its vibrancy and strengthen its appeal as a premier destination for living, business, and exploration,” said Scott Kugler, Community Development Director. “Paired with upcoming pedestrian safety and accessibility improvements along East Main Street, these initiatives reflect the City’s commitment to creating a thriving downtown that meets the needs of residents and visitors.

To learn more about various Downtown Sun Prairie projects, please contact Community Development at business@cityofsunprairie.com or 608-825-0806.

About City of Sun Prairie

Sun Prairie is a vibrant and thriving community located in northeastern Dane County, just east of the City of Madison. The City of Sun Prairie has experienced strong population growth since its incorporation from a village to a city in 1958, undergoing a transformation from a relatively small community of less than 4,000 to an estimated 39,419 today.