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38 | I NSIGH T • J u n e 2 0 15 w w w . i n s i g h t o n b u s i n e s s . c o m e last major development in downtown Menasha was the Marina Place project in 2003, Keil says. is latest project could change the dynamics of the downtown, making it an attractive place not just to work, but also putting it back into consideration as a destination to work and play. Like many other cities, including several in the Fox Cities, Menasha is seeking to create a unique sense of place. "With the opening of the grocery store, we are seeing the building up of the fabric and amenities that people want," Keil says. "When you get to a tipping point, people will start choosing downtown versus the suburbs. ree hundred new employees with income to spend should help increase the value of downtown as a place for development." As those other opportunities develop, it will help change the image of downtown as just place for business, says Patrick Skalecki, an engineer with the Green Bay offices of GRAEF, an engineering firm that has worked with Neenah on several of its successful projects, including the redevelopment of the former P.H. Glatfelter Mill and Gateway plaza, a gathering spot that ties downtown Neenah into the local park and trail system. "You want to make it a place that people want to come to," Skalecki says. "People need to know they have access to all the services they need." A walkable park and trail system can help foster that environment, he says. GRAEF is currently working with both cities on plans to create a complete loop with the trail system — incorporating the Trestle Trail Bridge — tying the two downtowns together. "People want to live where they have easy access to recreational opportunities, they don't want to drive to it. A trail system can really be a catalyst for that, spurring other development nearby," he says. Plans for the expanded trails are currently under review. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT An artist's rendering shows the 300-space parking garage that will be built to support the proposed office tower in downtown Menasha. C O U R T E S Y O F T H E C I T Y O F M E N A S H A with us, it's personal Helping you and your family achieve personal prosperity through business success. 920-882-4800 www.myprospera.com Prospera views your business not as just a group of accounts and transactions, but as an integral part of your life. We work closely with you to ensure that both your personal and business financial matters are managed holistically. We're here for you, no matter where you are. • Starting or purchasing a business • Growing your business/ in business • Moving toward retirement One Great Place TO DO BUSINESS! Visit our website for available properties and opportunities appletondowntown.org D O W N T O W N A PP LE TO N