Viroqua Community Center

Why?

The McIntosh Memorial Library needs a larger gathering space/room to accommodate the number of participants in existing and future programs. The current program room has an occupancy limit of 35 people. There is also a great need for overall community space for meetings, seminars, trainings, workshops, and social gatherings.

Where?

In 2016 the City of Viroqua/McIntosh Memorial Library and Western Technical College opened their shared facility to the public in downtown Viroqua. Western invested approximately 1.8 million dollars into the construction of future community space along Rock Avenue for the City, Library, and community to use. The financing and design of the space is the responsibility of the McIntosh Memorial library and City of Viroqua. Once complete, the room will be fully furnished with a kitchenette, bathrooms, and seating for 129 people. It is anticipated that the room will be available to rent seven days per week from 7:00am-10:00pm.

Timeline

Conversations about the buildout of the space inside Western Technical College began in late 2021 and continue today. The Western Technical College Board of Directors, City of Viroqua Administration, City Council and Library Board have all voted to support raising money to complete the buildout of the room.

Project cost:

Estimated at $400,000. Construction costs must be covered by grant dollars and private donors. The Library Director is responsible for completing the fundraising campaign.

Construction:

Once all funds are raised, construction can begin. The general contractor, Market & Johnson, estimates 6-8 weeks to complete construction.

Occupancy:

Western Technical College has agreed to a 20-year no-cost lease with the City of Viroqua. The library is responsible for managing the space and generating income to cover utility and custodian expenses.