Located along Lake Michigan’s western shore and surrounded by scenic inland lakes, Manitowoc County, Wisconsin blends small-town character with year-round activity and investment potential. Home to 81,000 residents, the county attracts both new residents and developers with its strong infrastructure, diverse economy and high quality of life.
Lifestyle and livability
Waterfront communities are central to the county’s appeal. Scenic marinas, beaches, trails and lively downtowns support an outdoor-focused lifestyle. With farmers markets, music events and festivals year-round, Manitowoc offers an ideal setting for families, retirees and remote workers alike.
Economic strength and workforce development
Manitowoc County’s economy is rooted in manufacturing, which accounts for nearly one-third of local employment, followed by health care, education and agriculture. It ranks fifth in Wisconsin for dairy production, with more than 1,000 active farms. Workforce needs are met by strong school districts, robust youth apprenticeship programs, Lakeshore Technical College and UW-Green Bay’s Manitowoc campus — each offering industry-aligned training.
Port and maritime advantage
Manitowoc’s maritime legacy is a defining strength. As part of a NOAA-designated Marine Sanctuary, the region celebrates its shipbuilding roots through the Wisconsin Maritime Museum and the USS Cobia submarine. The Port of Manitowoc — a federally authorized deep-draft harbor — connects to the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico and supports multimodal freight via truck and rail. Industrial riverfront land remains available, with companies like St. Mary’s Cement, Broadwind Heavy Fabrications and Burger Boat already operating at the port.
Strategic development sites
Waterfront revitalization is thriving. The River Point District, a downtown mixed-use TIF zone, recently welcomed the 87-unit River North project, with new condos planned for 2025 and infrastructure wrapping up in 2026. Nearby, the Bayshore Development offers unobstructed Lake Michigan views — ideal for housing, office or corporate headquarters.
Industrial growth continues with the Hecker Viebahn Industrial Park, a TID site with 7–50 acre parcels and I-43 access, expected to be shovel-ready in 2026.
As a Delegated Municipality, Manitowoc fast-tracks commercial plan reviews. Manitowoc Public Utilities further streamlines projects with bundled services and renewable energy options.
The I-43 corridor also offers opportunity including a 53-acre mixed-use TIF site in Cleveland and a 20-acre commercial parcel in Maribel. In central Manitowoc County, the village of Valders has mixed-use TID property suited for housing or a Community-Based Residential Facility.
Ready for what’s next
With strategic sites, public-private alignment and unmatched waterfront access, Manitowoc County is well-positioned for thoughtful, future-focused development.
Contact
Jamie Zastrow, Executive Director, Progress Lakeshore
920-482-0540 • progresslakeshore.org
InDevelopment Conference 2025
Thrivent, Appleton • Tuesday, Sept. 16 • 2–6 p.m.Â
For event agenda and details on presenters, read the 2025 InDevelopment Report
