Whitehall Chamber looking to make bandstand area a ‘vibrant space’

The Whitehall Bandstand has been restored to its original state, but the Whitehall Area Chamber of Commerce isn’t done trying to make the downtown area a vibrant space for community members.

The Bandstand itself was funded largely by a donation made by Dave and Ruth Wood, along with other community members. However, the Chamber has learned of an opportunity for a state grant that could help make the area surrounding the bandstand attractive.

The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation announced a pilot grant last month that is designed to “help communities sustain a robust labor force and enhance the quality of life. With the help of this grant, public gathering places will foster community connections and provide accessible locations for the programming and amenities local residents desire—with the additional benefit of boosting foot traffic for area businesses,” the WEDC website says regarding the Vibrant Spaces Grant.

Grants in amounts from $25,000 to $50,000 are available to help local communities develop and enhance public spaces, such as the Bandstand area in Whitehall. A letter sent by the Chamber said the city of Whitehall has already agreed to partner with the Chamber to apply for the grant, as applications must come from a municipality. No more than 30 grants will be awarded.

The catch, however, is that applicants must agree to match the grant amount. The Chamber is seeking a $25,000, which means it must also put up that amount of money in order to be eligible for the grant. The deadline for the application is Jan. 31, so the Chamber would need commitments by Dec. 31. The funds would not yet be needed, but a promise to make donations would be necessary in order for the grant application to be successful.

The Chamber is asking for community members to help. Those wishing to donate can do so by mailing the donation promise to: City of Whitehall, Attn: Bandstand Project, PO Box 155, Whitehall, WI, 54773. A form can be obtained by e-mailing whitehallchamber@tcc.coop. 

Should the Chamber’s grant application be accepted, the funds would be use to regrade the grassy area to level in sunken areas, replace plantings, add a concrete walkway around the bandstand and install decorative fencing along the railroad tracks. 

The criteria for the grant includes: 

• Creation of visible and pedestrian-oriented public space

• Potential of the space to attract multiple user groups and activities

• Impact of the project on the community, the district and nearby businesses

• Demonstrated community support for the project (e.g., multiple funding partners, civic organization participation)

• Ability of the project to be started in 2023.