ALLOUEZ, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Now that Langlade Elementary is closed, the village of Allouez needs to decide the future of the site. It’s turning to its residents for ideas.
“Allouez is not a big community. So, when we do something big for a project like this, we want to make sure that whatever we’re doing is what the village wants,” said Village President Jim Rafter.
The village has opened an online survey for Allouez residents. It asks residents if the site should be redeveloped for public or private use.
It references specific ideas such as green space, a community center, private business, or residential buildings.
“We want to serve as many people as we can with the small property that we have,” said Rafter.
The village has also placed a postcard in resident’s mailboxes to spread awareness of the survey.
Rafter says although the decision presents some challenges, it also brings an opportunity to repurpose the site in a creative way.
“If we go the route of a community type center, I think there will be a myriad of different opportunities within that building. It could be part community center, part residential,” said Rafter.
Although ideas have just started to roll in, some others brought forward include a daycare facility or dance studio.
“Allouez has always come through in these things. So, I’m looking forward to getting the responses,” said Rafter.
Rafter says many families have expressed disappointment in the school’s closure. With redevelopment on the horizon, would the village would memorialize the former school?
“Langlade’s been part of Allouez for an extremely long time and I’d be shocked if we didn’t do something to memorialize it,” said Rafter.
Rafter says the expectation is for the survey to be available for the next month. He added when that’s finished, a consultant will compile the data for the village board to use moving forward.
The village hopes to have a clear picture on the community’s interest by early next year. Rafter says the board will also hold several public meetings throughout the decision-making process.
