Fond du Lac is going through exciting changes in its business landscape. With new shops opening, beloved local businesses closing, and major development projects underway, the city is transforming in ways that affect everyone from shoppers and entrepreneurs to city officials and investors. Here’s a closer look at the seven biggest business changes happening in Fond du Lac in 2025.
1. Main Street Construction Impacts Local Businesses
Downtown Fond du Lac is currently undergoing a major roadwork project along Main Street, running from Court Street to Western Avenue. The resurfacing and water-main replacement work is expected to continue through early September.
Despite the inconvenience of road closures and construction, many businesses remain open. Shops like jewelry stores, galleries, and boutiques are using signage, curbside service, and online ordering to stay connected with customers. The city and business associations are encouraging people to continue shopping local during the disruption.
2. New Food Hall to Open Downtown
A new food hall is coming to the former Dillenger’s location at 1–5 South Main Street. Expected to open in late 2025, this venue will house seven individual food vendors all under one roof, providing a variety of dining options for residents and visitors.
The food hall project is designed to help local food entrepreneurs reach wider audiences while also drawing more people downtown. It’s seen as a key part of revitalizing the area during and after the Main Street construction.
3. New Medical Center Brings Health Services and Jobs
The Froedtert ThedaCare Health System is opening a brand-new medical center at 755 West Johnson Street. This $35 million project includes a 24/7 emergency department, inpatient care, imaging services like CT scans and X-rays, and even a modern geothermal heating and cooling system.
The facility is expected to open in early 2025 and will provide both health care access and new employment opportunities for the community.
4. Local Closures: The Hive and Wood’s Floral Say Goodbye
While there’s growth in some areas, Fond du Lac has also seen the closing of two long-standing local businesses. The Hive, known for its boutique retail offerings, and Wood’s Floral, a well-known flower shop, both closed their doors in mid-2025.
These closures have emotional significance for many residents, as both stores were community staples. The changing retail environment and rising operating costs were factors in their decisions to shut down.
5. City Contracts for Demolition and Maintenance Projects
Fond du Lac has launched new city-led projects that aim to improve infrastructure and clear space for potential new developments. One project includes the demolition of an old commercial building at 467 Walker Street. Another focuses on installing new structural components at municipal facilities.
These projects show that the city is continuing to modernize and prepare for future investment and business use in previously underutilized areas.
6. Support for New and Expanding Downtown Businesses
Fond du Lac’s Downtown Partnership has launched new resources to help businesses open, grow, or relocate downtown. The organization released a 2025 business development guide and is also offering grants for building improvements and design assistance.
These efforts are meant to make it easier for small business owners to find space, navigate regulations, and maintain appealing storefronts—especially during the Main Street construction period.
Local leaders have reported increased interest from business investors, signaling that downtown remains an attractive area for future growth.
7. Popular Events Continue Despite Roadwork
Although Main Street is under construction, the city is keeping popular community events going strong. The Farmers Market, Fondue Fest, Thursday Night Markets, and the Beer & Bourbon Crawl are still taking place, using side streets or adjusted layouts.
These events are crucial not just for community engagement but also for keeping foot traffic flowing to local shops and restaurants. Organizers say the events have been successful in drawing people back downtown, even during construction delays.
Why These Changes Matter
The business changes happening in Fond du Lac this year have wide-ranging effects:
- For Residents: New dining and medical services are improving quality of life and access to essentials.
- For Entrepreneurs: City-backed resources and a more dynamic downtown present opportunities for startups and small businesses.
- For Workers: New developments bring new jobs in health care, food service, and retail.
- For the City: Infrastructure investments and demolition work are laying the foundation for long-term economic growth.
Fond du Lac is not standing still. Even with construction and business turnover, the city continues to attract investment and entrepreneurial energy.
Looking Ahead
Several major milestones are still to come in 2025:
- The new food hall is expected to open later this year, drawing both food lovers and curious tourists.
- The new medical center will begin operations, adding vital health care infrastructure and new employment.
- The completion of the Main Street makeover will make downtown more accessible and attractive for shoppers and business owners.
- With help from the city and local business groups, more entrepreneurs are expected to move into the area.
If these trends continue, Fond du Lac could see its downtown emerge stronger and more vibrant by the end of the year.
Tips for Residents and Business Owners
- Keep shopping local, even during construction. Businesses are still open and need community support.
- Watch for new opportunities, whether you’re looking to invest, start a business, or attend events.
- Take advantage of city resources if you’re planning to open or expand your business in downtown.
- Stay informed about ongoing projects and their timelines, so you can plan ahead.
Conclusion: Fond du Lac Builds Toward the Future
Fond du Lac’s business scene in 2025 is a blend of growth, renewal, and transition. From major openings to heartfelt goodbyes, the city is experiencing change—but also progress.
With construction nearing completion, key developments set to launch, and community spirit driving support for local businesses, Fond du Lac is proving it’s ready for the next chapter.
For longtime residents, new entrepreneurs, and curious visitors alike, Fond du Lac’s evolving business landscape offers both opportunity and excitement in 2025.
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