One of the best parts of Green Bay in 2025 is that it keeps rediscovering itself, and these development opportunities are exciting chances for some important additions to each community their taking place in.

The most recent example is the news that the historic Fire Station No. 1 on Washington Street is getting transformed into new commercial space that will feature retail, food, and beverage tenants, with some office space on the top floor.

Here are some ideas that could work well in the space.

Fast lunch and dinner options: If they’re keeping the firestation doors, that almost screams food court with some patio space for dining. We have places to sit down to eat, but lunchtime options are scarce for downtown.

Retail to compliment the Fox River trail experience: I’m asking myself “what am I always forgetting when I’m out enjoying the trail”. Earbuds, sunglasses, umbrellas, hats. Some cold beverages. Let’s keep our trail team out there longer.

We don’t need a liquor store or coffee shop: There are already plenty of options to enjoy an adult beverage downtown. We also have to avoid any untrustworthy convenience store options like the ones in the area because those customers can’t behave themselves. We also already have plenty of coffee shops in the area, and another spot would be redundant at this point.

Most Importantly We Need Community Input: You should remember your recent experiences in that area and ask yourself what you wish you had the last time you visited. Share your thoughts. It may happen. It may not. You never know who is watching. It could go a long way.

This is going to be a fun project. Let’s see where it goes.