Meeting to Watch: Granary Project at City Review Board July 12

Architect LA DALLMAN released this early conceptual design for the Teweles & Brandeis grain elevator in March. Source: Sturgeon Bay Historical Society Foundation.

Sturgeon Bay – The granary project will go before the Sturgeon Bay Aesthetic Design and Site Plan Review Board on Monday, July 12.

Beth Renstrom, executive director for the granary project with the Sturgeon Bay Historical Society Foundation, said during an update to the Common Council Tuesday evening that they’re finalizing plans for the project while keeping the vision of honoring the county’s agricultural history. They’ve also coordinated with architects working on the nearby Plaza and Breakwater Residences projects.

“The West Waterfront is going to be one of the jewels of Sturgeon Bay,” she said. 

The National Trust for Historic Renovation recently endorsed the granary as a building of value worth saving.

“That was a big endorsement for us,” Renstrom said.

There are no blueprints to follow with the one-of-a-kind renovation of the nationally listed historical building, yet Renstrom said they’ve heard comments that they’re not moving quickly enough. She said they’ve been working “full steam ahead” ever since arrangements were finalized with the city in mid-December 2020.

“We’re really moving fast for a project of this scope and size, especially for a nonprofit,” she said.

The environmental study has been completed; engineering plans will be submitted for state permitting soon; they’ll hire a historic curator to assist with the historic interpretation; and “we’re on target with our fundraising efforts,” Renstrom said. 

She said there is “a lot of misinformation floating around out there” and invited people to call her at 920.278.2301 if they have questions about the project.