Oshkosh is undergoing a remarkable transformation, with the historic Sawdust District at the heart of its urban revival. Three major projects are reshaping the city’s skyline and sparking renewed energy in the area.
Adaptive‐reuse brings luxury living
The MK Lofts complex recently wrapped up its renovation of the original Miles Kimball facility, turning it into high-end apartments. The project opened for residents late last year, marking the first residential revitalization in the district.
Mixed-use on Main Street
Just blocks away, Mill on Main by T. Wall Enterprises broke ground in November 2024. This phased development will bring roughly 300 apartments and 20,000 square feet of commercial space to the district. Phase one (115 units) is set for completion in early 2026, already reshaping the neighborhood.
Micro-hospital nearing completion
Adjacent to these residential projects, construction is well underway on the new ThedaCare Medical Center-Oshkosh, a modern micro-hospital at 250 W. 6th Ave. on the Fox River. The campus is projected at 114,000 square feet with an $84 million investment, offering emergency care, inpatient beds, diagnostic imaging, pharmacy, outpatient surgery and more, contributing to the creation of an anticipated 60 new jobs. Completion is expected in late 2025.
New stewardship for community anchor
On the entertainment and sports front, Oshkosh Arena (home to the Wisconsin Herd) entered a new chapter in September 2024 when facility management transitioned to national operator VenuWorks under Executive Director Andy Linton. VenuWorks brings decades of event venue experience, promising more professional operations and stronger community programming.
Citywide momentum
The Oshkosh Avenue corridor, stretching from I-41 to the Fox River, continues to evolve as a major gateway. With more than $50 million in recent development beyond the original Oshkosh Corporation global HQ project, the area now features Marriott TownePlace Suites, Tru by Hilton, Mr. Brews Taphouse, Starbucks, Dunkin’, and Fox Communities Credit Union. Additional infrastructure investments are planned for the avenue’s east side.
What’s next
Oshkosh’s resurgence extends beyond the Sawdust District and Oshkosh Avenue. New workforce housing, strategic infill and robust local and regional support are fueling growth throughout the city. A new downtown development plan will complement current efforts, with numerous opportunity sites poised for future redevelopment, ensuring Oshkosh’s central core continues to thrive.
Contact
Tricia Rathermel, President & CEO, Greater Oshkosh EDC
tricia.rathermel@greateroshkosh.com • 920-230-3321ext.105
Andrea Aurigue, Communications & Research Manager, Greater Oshkosh EDC
andrea.aurigue@greateroshkosh.com • 920-230-3321ext.103
InDevelopment Conference 2025
Thrivent, Appleton • Tuesday, Sept. 16 • 2–6 p.m.
For event agenda and details on presenters, read the 2025 InDevelopment Report
