Viroqua WPA Bathhouse restoration on track for 2025 renovation after meeting fundraising goal

December 5, 2024

VIROQUA, Wis. — The vision of Viroqua’s 1936 WPA (Works Progress Administration) Bathhouse becoming the Viroqua Welcome Center is closer to becoming a reality. The WPA Bathhouse Task Force is proud to announce the achievement of their fundraising goal with the allocation of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) Community Development Investment (CDI) Grant of $250,000.

Renovation of the building located at 220 Rock Ave. in the heart of Viroqua is forecast to begin by Summer 2025.

Key features of the Viroqua Welcome Center will be: a visitor and community information center, a meeting and gathering space for community and business use, downtown public restrooms, and a trailhead for Vernon County’s renowned recreational trails.

“This is a celebration of what our community can accomplish when we come together,” said Cyndy Hubbard, chair of the WPA Bathhouse Task Force. “Achieving our fundraising goal by receiving the CDI grant allocation reflects the support and belief in the WPA Bathhouse becoming a space that will serve as a cornerstone for our community for generations to come.”

“Vibrant downtowns are one of the keys to thriving communities,” said Missy Hughes,
secretary and CEO of WEDC.  “WEDC is pleased to support the Viroqua Welcome Center project as an innovative way to attract both visitors and residents to the heart of Viroqua.”

While the fundraising milestone is a cause for celebration, the project continues to seek donations and pledges to strengthen its budget and enhance the Center’s programming and amenities. Additional contributions will help ensure the Viroqua Welcome Center becomes a vibrant, well-equipped hub that exceeds expectations.  

The Viroqua City Council also approved a final design for the building at the Dec. 10 meeting. You can watch the discussion about the bathhouse design in the video below.

For more information about the Viroqua Welcome Center, including ways to donate, visit www.viroquabathhousewelcomecenter.org and follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/viroquawelcomecenter.