About Viroqua Chamber Main Street
In 1989, the Viroqua Revitalization Association was formed to improve the business district and community of Viroqua. In August of that year, Viroqua was chosen as a Main Street Community, one of the first in Wisconsin to be granted this prestigious designation. The Main Street Program is focused on the principles of economic development set forth by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. In 1995, the Viroqua Revitalization Association joined forces with the Viroqua Chamber of Commerce and became “The Viroqua Chamber ~ A Main Street City”, commonly known as the Viroqua Chamber Main Street.
The Viroqua Chamber Main Street is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of the Viroqua community through leadership, facilitation and collaboration. The organization is focused on keeping Viroqua vibrant by strengthening the business community, preserving the history and beauty of the historic downtown district, supporting community-wide events throughout the year and providing resources to tourists visiting from all over the world.
Under the leadership of a Board of Directors and Executive Director, the Viroqua Chamber Main Street implements a comprehensive four-point approach to community revitalization: organization, design, economic restructuring and promotion. Each of the four points is represented by a committee of community volunteers ensuring Viroqua remains vibrant and strong.
Our regular in-person office operating hours are M-F, 8Am-5PM but other meetings are available upon request. Please email [email protected] or call 608-637-2575 for an appointment or more information.
Organization
The volunteer Board of Directors assumes the responsibility for overseeing the activities of the staff, while maintaining the organization’s overall direction, volunteer development and financial security.
Programs include:
- Student Scholarships
- Volunteer & Business Recognition Banquet
Design
The Design Committee is focused on enhancing the physical appeal and attractiveness of the community. Creating an inviting, pedestrian- friendly atmosphere builds more than just a beautiful city, it creates community.
Programs include:
- Downtown Beautification Projects
- Streetscaping
- Viroqua Community Mural
- Lamp Post Flower Basket Project
- Historic Preservation
- Holiday Skyline Lights
Economic Restructuring
The Economic Restructuring Committee is dedicated to retaining and expanding successful businesses by encouraging a balanced commercial mix, sharpening the competitiveness and skills of business owners and attracting new businesses the market can support.
Programs include:
- Business Recruitment & Retention
- Quarterly Breakfasts
- Business Education & Assistance
- Business Networking
- Alive After Five
Promotions
The Promotion Committee is all about developing and refining a unified, quality image of Viroqua as the best place to live, work and play. Marketing the city’s unique characteristics through advertising, retail promotional activity, special events and marketing campaigns creates a positive image for the community.
Programs include:
- The Viroqua Farmers Market
- Downtown Sales Coordination
- Twinklefest Parade
Volunteer
The success of every Viroqua Chamber Main Street project revolves around volunteers. Dedicated individuals are welcome on the Promotion, Design & Economic Restructuring committees, Board of Directors, or for tasks related to individual projects and special events.
Board of Directors
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President: Niki Steele, Aptiv (2023)
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Vice President: Trina Erickson, McIntosh Memorial Library (2023)
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Treasurer: TBD
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Secretary: TBD
- David Hartberg, Vernon Memorial Healthcare (2023)
- Aaron Aslin, Wonderstate (2023)
- Jonah Curley, Viroqua Food Co-op (2024)
- Jess Reed, Historic Temple Theater (2024)
- Ann Cade (2025)
- Steve Campbell (2025)
- Michele Williams (2025)
- Lisa Berg (2025)
Staff
- Executive Director: Chris Clemens
- Assistant Director: Larkin Breckel
- Communications Coordinator: Zoe Chakoian
Contact Information
220 S Main St., Suite A Viroqua, WI 54665(608) 637-2575
[email protected]