Developers pitch ideas for Shokpo lot

STEVENS POINT — During an Oct. 14 Redevelopment Authority Meeting, developers had the chance to pitch their ideas for what could be built in the Shopko lot in downtown Stevens Point. Demolition on the Shopko building began in July of 2024, leaving the retailer’s old parking lot and building lot empty since shutting its’ doors in 2019.
KCG Companies, based out of Indianapolis, presented their proposal for the southern half of the Shopko lot with a three-story building containing apartments above commercial space, in addition to a public park that would neighbor the building, and a parking lot. KCG Companies said the three-story building would contain, “Fifty-two affordable apartments with a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom units.”
Commonwealth Development Corporation of America, based out of Middleton, presented their proposal of a three-story building containing apartments above space for commercial use. Forty seven apartment units would be expected, with 18 units being one bedroom, 19 units being two bedrooms, and 10 units being three bedrooms. The building would include a community room, exercise facility, business center, leasing office, and 4,500 square feet of commercial space. 3,000 of the 4,500 square feet could potentially be filled by UW-Stevens Point, including a Child Learning and Care Center operated by the university.
Volker Development, based out of Madison, presented their proposal of a four-story apartment building with 16,000 square feet for commercial space. Differing from the other developers, Volker is looking to move parking underground for 181 parking stalls, with 90 additional surface parking stalls, and 15 parking spaces for those visiting the commercial space. Volker’s proposal includes a fitness center, storage lockers, and indoor bike storage, in addition to other features.
Community feedback at the meeting garnered mostly positive responses from those present, with appreciation shown towards the affordability aspect of the proposed housing and the community ties developers are looking to include, such as the proposed UW-Stevens Point daycare center. Marc Christensen of the city council was present for the meeting, providing feedback after all the presentations.
“I was impressed by all three proposals; I think they all have some commonalities and things that are unique about each.” Christensen said, “I do like the fact that they were looking at the community aspects, like the childcare facilities. I do think there is a need for that in this community as well, and would be advantageous to that facility to attract more people to the facility and help fill it more quickly, as well.”