Adopted August, 2006

The Community’s Vision for Downtown Whitewater

Downtown Whitewater of the future will be renowned as a regional center for the arts and prominent as a destination for shopping, fun, recreation and entertainment. The downtown’s highly active scene and the seamless integration of its built and natural environments will create the look and feel that distinguishes Downtown Whitewater as a special place.

The community’s commitment to the preservation of its historic and natural resources will be evident in Downtown Whitewater. Historic buildings will be restored and preserved to reflect a strong sense of pride and prosperity. The beautiful streetscape will feature attractive gateways, green spaces, public art and distinctive décor that contribute to the downtown’s clean, safe and entertaining small town atmosphere.

Downtown will be the hub for a system of well-maintained streets, sidewalks, walking & hiking paths and bicycle trails that connect with Cravath Lake and Birge Fountain, Stone Stable, the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater campus, surrounding neighborhoods, and other area parks, landmarks and attractions. The downtown’s lakeshore, public spaces and gathering places will serve as venues for traditional festivals and special events that attract residents and visitors of all ages to celebrate the community’s history and culture.

The downtown will be home to a diversified mix of businesses that effectively cater to the needs of local residents, students and visitors from surrounding communities. Daytime activities will extend into the evening as people of all ages who live, work, shop and visit downtown enjoy its entertaining tastes, sights and sounds while meandering through galleries, dining at restaurants, enjoying coffee or ice cream at a sidewalk café, roller-skating at the park, and paddle-boating on the lake.

The vision, commitment and enthusiasm that inspired the community’s award-winning downtown revitalization efforts will create a legacy that will be both celebrated and carried on by members of future generations that grow up, learn, work, and choose to make a home in Whitewater.