HomeMy WebLinkAboutSawdust_District_Master_PlanSAWDUST DISTRICT
MASTER PLAN
January 10, 2020
Chapter 1 – Context 2
Purpose of the Sawdust District Master Plan 3
Existing Conditions 3
District History 6
Imagine Oshkosh Master Plan 8
Outreach Summary 9
Chapter 2 – Sawdust District Plan 10
District Wide 12
Functional Subareas 28
COMMON COUNCIL PLAN COMMISSION SAWDUST DISTRICT
STEERING GROUP
CITY STAFF
Special thanks to 44 Degrees North
Advertising & Design for the Sawdust
District logo development.
Lori Palmeri, Mayor
Steve Herman, Deputy Mayor
Debra L. Allison-Aasby
Matt Mugerauer
Bob Poeschl
Jake Krause
Bill Miller
Thomas Fojtik, Chair
John Hinz
Kathleen Propp, Vice Chair
Lori Palmeri, Mayor
John Kiefer
Mike Ford
Thomas Perry
Derek Groth
Lynnsey Erickson
Justin Mitchell
Mamadou Yoyaga Sengan
Coulibaly
Javad Ahmad
Debra L. Allison Aasby,
Council Memeber
Amy Albright
Tom Belter
Brian Burns
John Casper
Bob Coglianese
Steve Cummings,
Former Mayor
Tom Fojtik
Audra Hoy
Rob Kleman
Jason Lasky
Lori Palmeri, Mayor
Diane Penzenstadler
Greg Pierce
Mark Rohloff, City Manager
Heidi Strand
Chet Wesenberg
Jason White
Judi Williams
Bill Wyman
Allen Davis
Mark Lyons
Alexa Naudziunas
Kelly Nieforth
Darryn Burich, former
Planning Director
Jim Collins
Justin Gierach
TABLE OF CONTENTS ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
SPECIAL THANKS
Prepared by Houseal Lavigne
and Oshkosh Staff
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Sawdust District
CENTER CITY
CITY OF OSHKOSH
GREEN BAY
MADISON MILWAUKEE
VAN DYKE
CITY OF
OSHKOSH
Wittman
Airport (OSH)
ZION
FISK
RING
HARBOR
SPRINGS
MIMN
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CONTEXT
The Sawdust District Master Plan is the guide for the
City of Oshkosh’s efforts to revitalize the historic District
on the South Shore. It sets a vision for the area in the
coming years and establishes definitive guiding principles,
recommendations, and actions to achieve them.
The Plan aims to organize development within the
District into a unified, comprehensive endeavor, founded
by community input. Acting as a guidebook for the
community, the Plan should be utilized by City staff, officials,
and stakeholders in the decision-making process of the
District’s revitalization. Coordination with ongoing and
future planning efforts and projects will be critical for the
successful implementation of the Plan’s recommendations.
In this Chapter:
Planning Area (page 2)
Purpose of the Sawdust District Plan (page 3)
District History (Page 6)
Imagine Oshkosh (page 8)
Outreach Summary (page 9)
PLANNING AREA
The Sawdust District boundary was
developed based on the Imagine
Oshkosh functional subareas. City
staff led an exercise with the Sawdust
District Advisory Group (SDAG) to help
determine the official boundary for the
district. The district includes the South
Shore East and portions of South
Shore Central functional subareas. The
southern boundary extends to 17th
Avenue in order to include a significant
extent of the South Main Street
corridor for development potential.
the South Main Street corridor for
development potential.
2 Sawdust District Master Plan
PURPOSE OF
THE SAWDUST
DISTRICT PLAN
The Sawdust District is the South
Shore extension of Oshkosh’s Center
City, a collection of neighborhoods
located in the historic core of the
community. The District includes the
South Main Street corridor and the
dual waterfronts of the Fox River and
Lake Winnebago. Known for its historic
industrial uses, the District was once
home to leading lumber and furniture
companies. As the lumber industry
decreased in the community, those
former lumber uses transitioned into
other heavy uses, influencing the
development pattern to this day.
In 2000, the City partnered with the
Oshkosh Area Community Foundation
and the Oshkosh Chamber of
Commerce to develop a Downtown
Action Plan. The Downtown Action
Plan provided a framework and agenda
that successfully guided capital
improvement projects and private
investment for more than 15 years,
including Opera House Square, the
Riverwalk, Leach Amphitheater, and
streetscaping along North Main Street.
In 2017, Imagine Oshkosh: A Master
Plan for Our Center City was developed
as an update to previous planning
efforts to serve as a long-term vision
and comprehensive investment
strategy for the entire Center City.
The Sawdust District Plan expands on
Imagine Oshkosh by providing focused
and detailed planning strategies for
the area identified as the South Shore
subarea in that plan. The new Sawdust
District Plan will direct growth,
development, and infrastructure
investment while providing guidance
and specific recommendations to
assist in the redevelopment of the
Sawdust District.
PLANNING PROCESS
The Sawdust District Plan is the
result of a planning process that was
initiated in March 2018, following
the adoption of Imagine Oshkosh:
A Master Plan for Our Center City.
The process was designed to allow
input from the advisory group of
stakeholders. The planning process for
the Sawdust District Plan consisted of
the follow items:
1 – Project Initiation
In March 2018, the planning process
kicked off with the first SDAG meeting.
2 – Past Plans
A summary of existing plans and
current conditions was developed and
presented to the SDAG. The following
Plans were reviewed with the group
in preparation of the Sawdust District
Plan:
Imagine Oshkosh: A Master Plan for
our Center City (2017)
Imagine Oshkosh Existing
Conditions Report
City Center Corridors Plan (2018)
Let’s Be Pioneers! Riverfront
Visioning Workshops Public Input
Summary Report (2014)
Comprehensive Plan (2005)
Fox River Corridor – Riverwalk Plan
and Design Guidelines (2005)
Downtown Action Plan (2000)
3– Outreach
The outreach process for Imagine
Oshkosh provided the foundation for
the Sawdust District Plan, and regular
SDAG meetings steered it toward
completion. Additional outreach
efforts included a project website,
targeted mailings to local property
owners and stakeholders, and key
stakeholder interviews conducted in
support of the planning process.
4 – Framework Plans
Based on input from outreach and a
review of existing plans and conditions,
preliminary framework plans and
recommendations were developed
to address land use, transportation,
urban design, and public spaces.
5 – Final Report and Adoption
The draft Sawdust District Plan
represents the final step in the
planning process. The draft plan was
presented to the community and SDAG
for review and consideration. Based on
feedback, the draft plan was amended
and presented to Common Council for
adoption.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
An analysis of existing conditions
provides a foundation for developing
policies and recommendations.
It is important to understand the
district as it is today in order to make
recommendations for its development
into the future. Extensive fieldwork
and reconnaissance was conducted
to establish an existing conditions
baseline as part of the first phase
of the planning process for Imagine
Oshkosh. This Plan builds on that
baseline, while providing updates
where conditions have changed.
The decline of the local lumber/
furniture industry in the District has
presented an opportunity to reimagine
this formerly industrial part of the
South Shore. The Sawdust District
is an industrial area intermixed with
auto-oriented commercial and
single-family detached uses. Pioneer
Island, currently vacant, is a notable
waterfront site for development within
the District.
The existing industrial character
is somewhat out of place with the
surrounding Oshkosh neighborhoods,
and many of the existing land uses are
not of the highest quality. The South
Main Street corridor, which provides
a gateway to the Center City, needs a
new wave of investment.
The District presents a relative blank
slate on many sites and efforts toward
parcel consolidation will facilitate
wholesale redevelopment into an
exciting mixed use district at the
foot of Downtown Oshkosh. The first
example of significant redevelopment
is the Menominee Nation Arena.
However, all properties have not
been cleared and certain industrial
businesses will need to be voluntarily
relocated to designated industrial
parks. While the Arena is an example
of ground-up redevelopment, to the
extent possible, buildings with historic
characteristics should be integrated
into new development scenarios
wherever possible.
Sawdust District Master Plan 3
Fox River
Lake
Winnebago
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Menominee
Nation Arena
Pioneer
Island
EXISTING LAND USE
Existing land use provides an inventory of every parcel in the Sawdust District to identi how land is used within the
planning area. An assessment and understanding of the Sawdust District’s existing land use plays an important role in
shaping plan recommendations. The District provides a mix of uses east of South Main Street with transition to more
residential uses to the south. On the west side of South Main Street, the District largely exhibits the South Shore’s historic
industrial uses, although that is changing with the Menominee Nation Arena. The west side of South Main Street offers the
most potential for development in the form of large vacant sites. At the north side of the District, the block between 6th
and 7th Avenues along South Main Street provides an intact historic street wall exhibiting potential for mixed use and
gateway development.
Single-Family Detached. This land
use category consists of single-family
detached homes, many of which
feature detached garages.
Single-family detached homes in the
district are located primarily on the
west side of South Main Street
between 10th Avenue and 16th
Avenue.
Single-Family Attached. This land use
category includes residential
structures with two or more dwell-
ings that share a common wall, with
each unit having its own dedicated
entry, such as rowhomes and
townhomes. A single-family attached
development is located at Nebraska
Street and 8th Avenue.
Multi-Family . Multi-family residen-
tial uses include multiple housing
units typically sharing common
internal building space such as
stairwells or hallways, including
apartments and condominiums.
Small multi-family buildings are
found throughout the District.
Mixed Use. This category includes
multiple distinct uses in a single
building. The most common form of
mixed use developments are ground
floor commercial uses with residential
or o ce uses located on upper floors.
Mixed use buildings are currently
found throughout the District.
Commercial. The commercial
category includes buildings for retail
or service businesses. This includes
only stand-alone/single-purpose and
mixed commercial buildings.
Mixed-use buildings with residential
uses on upper floors are not included.
O ce. O ce and finance uses
include banks, law firms, medical
o ces, and other o ce uses. There
are a few former homes along South
Main Street used for o ces.
Entertainment and Hospitality.
Entertainment and hospitality uses
include the riveront, and the
Menominee Nation Arena, and the
associated parking between 11th
Avenue and South Park Avenue. The
arena is the primary entertainment
use in the District.
Industrial. Industrial uses include
manufacturing, storage, heavy
commercial facilities, recycling, and
more. Most industrial uses in the
District are located between South
Main Street and Pioneer Drive.
Additional smaller industrial
businesses occupy parcels inter-
spersed along the west side of South
Main Street.
Public/Semi-Public. Public and
semi-public land uses include a
variety of community facilities. The
Oshkosh Area School District
maintenance building is the single
example of this use in the District.
Parks and Open Space. Land classi-
fied as parks and open space
includes portions of the District’s
open areas along the wateront.
Marina. This category consists of
land along the wateront dedicated
to water access or harbors with
moorings. Marina uses are located on
the Fox River west of the South Main
Street bridge as well as south of
Pioneer Island.
Rail/Utilities. Rail and utility uses in
the District include Canadian
National (CN) railroad right-of-way
and the CN Oshkosh rail yard.
Parking. This land use classification
includes parcels whose primary use is
either public or private parking.
Vacant. Vacant property consists of
sites that currently contain no
standing structure or use. Vacant
parcels are located throughout the
District, with the largest vacant site
occupying the block between 8th
and 9th Avenue on the east side of
South Main Street.
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4 Sawdust District Master Plan
Fox River
Lake
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7th Ave
8th Ave
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10th Ave
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Menominee
Nation Arena
Pioneer
Island
CURRENT ZONING
The City’s Zoning Ordinance is Chapter 30 of the Oshkosh Code of Ordinances. The Sawdust District currently
contains five standard zoning districts and two overlay zoning districts, which regulate the usage and intensity of
land. The overlay zoning districts are intended to address special land use circumstances beyond those addressed
by the underlying standard district.
TR-10: Two Flat Residential. This
district intended to create, preserve,
and enhance areas for single family
detached and two flat dwellings at an
approximate density of 10 dwelling
units per acre. (Section 30-41)
UMU: Urban Mixed Use. This district is
intended to permit areas, generally
on the inge of Downtown, that are
mixed use in character and establish
standards that are compatible with
the existing mix of land uses and
redevelopment objectives. This
district is intended to provide for a
variety of employment, retail and
community service opportunities,
while allowing some residential uses
at an approximate density of up to
36 dwelling units per acre. Residential
uses should not become the majority
ground floor land use in this district.
Uses shall be compatible not only
with other uses within the district,
but land uses in adjoining zoning
districts as well. (Section 30-53)
CMU: Central Mixed Use. This district
is intended to permit both large- and
small- scale downtown commercial
development at an intensity which
provides significant incentives for
infill development, redevelopment,
and the continued economic viability
of existing development. The district
is also intended to retain the existing
“main street” characteristics of the
core blocks in Oshkosh’ s historic
downtown. Residential uses are
intended to occur at a minimum
approximate density of 10 dwelling
units per acre. (Section 30-54)
RMU: River ont Mixed Use. This
district is intended to protect
aesthetics and water quality while
accommodating the wide variety of
both indoor and outdoor land uses
that benefit om locating adjacent
to the Fox River. Residential uses are
intended to occur at a minimum
approximate density of 10 dwelling
units per acre. (Section 30-55)
HI: Heavy Industrial. This district
intended to provide space for
manufacturing and industrial
operations which are potentially
incompatible with residential and
commercial uses. (Section 30-62)
RF-O: River ont Overlay. The
purpose of this overlay district is to
improve the quality of development
along the river ont by applying
enhanced building design standards
and land use regulations in the area
defined by the mapped boundaries
of the River ont Overlay District.
(Section 30- 159)
PD-O: Planned Development Overlay.
The purpose of this overlay district is
to provide for the possible relaxation
of certain development standards
pertaining to the underlying standard
zoning district. Planned develop-
ments allow diversification and
variation in the relationship of uses,
structures, open spaces, and heights
of structures in developments
conceived and implemented as
comprehensive and cohesive unified
projects. The Planned Development
Overlay District shall allow develop-
ment to be designed, reviewed,
approved, constructed, and managed
as approved by the Common Council
rather than required by the underly-
ing zoning district. (Section 30-158)
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Sawdust District Master Plan 5
DISTRICT HISTORY
Source: Oshkosh Public Museum archives
The Sawdust District has a rich history
of business and industry. The District
was historically located within the
boundary of the City’s 3rd Ward, an
area that saw a series of rebuilding
periods as natural disasters, fires, and
changes in the economy have affected
properties and businesses. The location
near water sources has historically
driven activity in the area, and the
waterfronts continue to encourage
activity today.
LUMBER INDUSTRY
Oshkosh, and the South Shore area
in particular, provided an attractive
location for lumber industry
development due to its proximity to
woodlands in the north as well as
diverse and growing markets in the
Midwest industrial cities.
Oshkosh was considered the lumber
capital of the world at the height of
the lumber boom in the early 1870s,
with 24 sawmills, 15 shingle mills, and 7
sash and door companies in operation,
earning Oshkosh the nickname
“Sawdust City.”
FOX RIVER AND LAKE WINNEBAGO
At the northeast corner of the District,
The Fox River flows east through
Oshkosh and into Lake Winnebago,
a shallow freshwater lake that is the
largest entirely within the state. Known
as the Lower Fox at Lake Winnebago’s
west central shore, it has long
supported human activity, including
indigenous people and Native
American cultures. The first Europeans
to reach the Fox were French, and
during the French colonization of
the Americas, this route was used
frequently by fur traders.
The Fox River’s importance continued
into the 1850s, when locks, dams,
and a canal enabled the Lower Fox
to develop as a center of riverfront
industry. During the mid-19th century,
several flour mills were built along the
river to harness its waterpower. Paper
mills replaced these as Wisconsin’s
wheat production declined. The Lower
Fox proved to be an ideal location
for paper production, owing to its
proximity to lumbering areas that
could supply wood pulp to make paper.
Several well-known paper companies
were founded in cities along the river.
BREWING
Beer brewing was an important
business in the South Shore
neighborhood, with Oshkosh Brewery
dating to 1866. By 1894, the brewery
merged with two others to form
Oshkosh Brewing Company. Oshkosh
Brewing Company, located on the
south side of the Fox River, coined the
marketing slogan “By Gosh It’s Good.”
Its Chief Oshkosh brand became a
nationally distributed beer.
Peoples Brewery, a competitor, was
founded on South Main Street in
1911. Peoples Brewery eventually grew,
occupying the entire block between
15th and 16th Avenues, where it stood
until demolition in 1974. However,
elements of the original brewery
remain in the Sawdust District. The
bottling department and offices have
been incorporated into the Blended
Waxes building at 1512 South Main
Street, and a brewery garage is located
on 15th Avenue.
Oshkosh Public Museum P1935.2.15 Oshkosh Public Museum P2003.20.1032
6 Sawdust District Master Plan
BROOKLYN FIRE HOUSE
Built in 1868, the Brooklyn Fire House
is was designed by the architect
William Waters. The building is on
both the State and National Registers
of Historic Places. Decommissioned
due to age in 1947, the location of the
building at 17 West 6th Avenue means
it has potential to be is a significant
gateway feature for the north side of
the Sawdust District. It is a leading
example of the historic structures
that make up the fabric of the
neighborhood and preservation should
be a priority for this key building.
BUCKSTAFF COMPANY
The firm of Buckstaff-Edwards
Company was organized in 1881, and
while it primarily manufactured chairs
and rockers, at various times in the
company history, it also manufactured
caskets, burial robes, funeral cars,
hearses, novelty furniture, and toys.
With ownership changes in 1912, the
name was changed to simply the
Buckstaff Company. The company
continued to manufacture furniture
into the 21st century until the factory
closed in 2011.
MENOMINEE NATION ARENA
The Menominee Nation Arena is a
64,300 square foot, 3,500 person
capacity indoor arena built on the old
Buckstaff Company site. The primary
use of the arena is for basketball, and
it is the home of the NBA G League’s
Wisconsin Herd, an affiliate team
for the Milwaukee Bucks. The arena
also acts as a venue for a variety
events, ranging from a winter farmer’s
market to musical performances. The
development of the arena is a catalyst
for the Plan, as it generates significant
activity and brings people to the
Sawdust District from throughout
Oshkosh.
PIONEER INN RESORT AND MARINA
Pioneer Island is located east of Pioneer
Drive, south of the confluence of the Fox
River and Lake Winnebago. The Pioneer
Inn Resort and Marina was constructed and
began operation on the island in 1965. In
2004, the resort owner partially demolished
the existing hotel with plans to rebuild,
but it closed in 2005 after those plans did
not proceed. Since that time, the marina
has continued to operate but the site has
otherwise remained idle and underutilized.
RAILROAD
The Canadian National (CN) railroad
right-of-way and the CN Oshkosh rail
yard are prominent features of the
Sawdust District, providing reminder of
the industrial heritage of the District
and the important role that freight
transportation still plays in the City.
The active CN rail line runs through
the Sawdust District in a north-south
direction.
Oshkosh Public Museum P2003.20.354 Oshkosh Public Museum P193611
Oshkosh Public Museum P2003.20.386
Oshkosh Public Museum P1938.05.01
Sawdust District Master Plan 7
IMAGINE
OSHKOSH
The Sawdust District Plan emerged
from outreach undertaken in support
of Imagine Oshkosh. Residents and
Center City stakeholders were engaged
early in the process through a diverse
variety of outreach methods, including
public workshops, interviews and focus
groups, and an interactive project
website, which featured an online
community issues mapping tool.
Outreach collected from the Imagine
Oshkosh planning process specific
to the Sawdust District is detailed
below, providing relevant community
feedback that should be considered in
the Sawdust District Plan.
REVITALIZING VACANT AND BLIGHTED AREAS
Participants stated that they would
like to see vacant structures either
torn down or repurposed, based on
the quality of the building and the
stability of the block. Much attention
was paid to former industrial areas on
the south side of the river. Participants
noted façade improvements for
historic South Main Street buildings
and investment in blighted residential
neighborhoods as top concerns.
HISTORIC CHARACTER
Many individuals focused on the City’s
past and Oshkosh’s rich inventory of
historic buildings, expressing a desire
to preserve the historic character.
Specific actions noted included
establishing a façade rehabilitation
program and updating all signage to
historic standards.
NEED FOR A DIRECT ARTERY
It was noted that City should improve
unattractive areas along arterial
routes, such as South Main Street,
to help communicate a positive first
impression of Oshkosh and help draw
visitors into Center City.
CATALYTIC REDEVELOPMENT
Catalytic redevelopments are major
projects that can spark adjacent and
surrounding development, leading to a
chain effect of investment. Participants
identified the need to activate the
waterfront by completing the Riverwalk
and promoting redevelopment of
key sites, including the Buckstaff
Company site, which has since been
redeveloped for the Menominee
Nation Arena. Residents suggested
developing mixed-use destinations on
the parcels, including retail, residential
units, and hotels. With the Menominee
Nation Arena now acting as a catalytic
redevelopment, the viability of each
envisioned use from outreach has
increased.
Redeveloping Pioneer Island
Participants stated that they would
like to see vacant structures either
torn down or repurposed, based on
the quality of the building and the
stability of the block. Much attention
was paid to former industrial areas on
the south side of the river. Participants
noted façade improvements for
historic South Main Street buildings
and investment in blighted residential
neighborhoods as top concerns.
Fox River Development
Residents noted the positive impact
the Riverwalk has had on the
waterfront and would like to see it
completed. Further, many felt that
this amenity could be complimented
by additional private investment that
could also capitalize on the scenery
and recreation along the waterfront,
including new mixed-use development
and corporate campuses. Emphasis
was placed on the South Shore.
Opportunity Sites Map from the 2017
Imagine Oshkosh Master Plan
8 Sawdust District Master Plan
OUTREACH
SUMMARY
Community outreach is critical to
the Sawdust District Plan. Local
outreach began with informative
mailings sent to 79 property owners
and stakeholders in the District,
outlining the process and identifying
the purpose of the Plan. The mailings
provided a map of the District, a link
to the Plan website, and included a
request for input. Subsequent outreach
efforts, detailed below, guided the
planning process and is directly
reflected in the recommendations and
policies of the final Plan.
STAKEHOLDER INTERVIEWS
City staff conducted nine one-on-one
key stakeholder interviews designed
to provide individuals an opportunity
to engage with the planning process
in a conversational setting. The goal
was to examine nuanced information
in finer detail from local stakeholder
perspectives, and to more accurately
assess conditions and potentials.
Interview questions focused on the
following topics:
Current District Character
Future District Character
Land Use
Future of Development,
Redevelopment, and Housing
Environment
Economic Development
Transportation
SAWDUST DISTRICT ADVISORY GROUP (SDAG)
Between March 2018 and July
2019, the advisory group met nine
times to provide input on the Plan.
Participation in the SDAG regularly
included between 12 and 18 residents,
community stakeholders, and City
staff. The group worked to establish
boundaries for the district and the
functional subareas, create a logo and
branding elements for the project,
and expand upon recommendations
identified in Imagine Oshkosh. Most
importantly, the group was tasked with
providing feedback and input to City
staff as the Plan was created.
Visioning Exercise
In May 2018, the SDAG participated
in an interactive exercise using a
strengths, weaknesses, opportunities,
and threats (SWOT) format to further
develop a vision for the Sawdust
District. The results of the workshop
provided direction for the vision and
are directly reflected in the policies and
recommendations of the Plan.
What is a Vision Statement?
The vision statement sets forth an
aspirational narrative that articulates
the collective desires of the community
and serves as the foundation for the
strategies and recommendations set
forth in the Plan. Through a series of
public meetings, the SDAG identified
improvements and changes they
would make in the District. Knowing
the intent of the stakeholders, and
working under the framework of
Imagine Oshkosh, the SDAG developed
the Sawdust District vision statement
in coordination with City staff. The
vision statement also incorporates
other information gathered through
the planning process and imagines
the district as it will be in the future,
expressing ideas and concepts and
describing an ideal scenario.
Strengths
Waterfront
Walkable environment
Local history
Development ready area
Quality buildings
Available land
City commitment to the area
Major gateway
Extends the Center City
Adjacent neighborhoods
Weaknesses
Environmental conditions
Railroad
Blight on Pioneer Island
Adjacent neighborhoods
Complex development
Not directly accessible from
highway
Too many property owners
control available land
Opportunities
Establish the area as an
entertainment district
Redevelopment of Pioneer Island
Waterfront development
New Menominee Nation Arena
Threats
Costly soil remediation
Landowners may not want to
develop or invest in their property
Competition with other
communities
Sawdust District Master Plan 9
VISION STATEMENT
The Sawdust District, nestled in the heart of the Center City at the
confluence of the Fox River and Lake Winnebago, is a regional destination
containing an eclectic mix of businesses, entertainment venues, and
residential opportunities. The dynamic neighborhood is active year-round,
providing a variety of experiences for residents and visitors alike. People
choose to live in the District due to the great quality of life supported by
a diversity of housing options and convenient proximity to amenities,
including shopping, lake and riverfront open spaces, trail connections,
and a unique industrial heritage. Visitors come to enjoy the same
amenities, and to experience the energetic excitement that surrounds
Menominee Nation Arena on gameday or during a special event.
The pedestrian-friendly environment of the District, enhanced by
thoughtful streetscaping and roadway design, encourages activity at
a human scale. New development complements the existing eclectic
character, and buildings with historic characteristics are treasured as
local assets and an integral part of the City’s fabric. Mixed use infill
development along South Main Street has further encouraged people
to interact daily with each other and their environment on the street.
The District is well-connected to its surroundings, with development
and transportation patterns engaging and respecting adjacent
neighborhoods. Throughout Oshkosh, the Sawdust District waterfront
has developed a reputation focused on public use and enjoyment,
complementing the variety of activities and places found there.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
Imagine Oshkosh included key
recommendations specific to the
Sawdust District. These remain valid
and are expanded here as guiding
principles for the Sawdust District
Master Plan. Recommendations and
strategies articulated throughout the
Plan support these guiding principles.
Develop an Exciting,
Mixed-Use District
The success of retail and dining
options depend on a residential
population in proximity. A good
housing mix exists in the Sawdust
District, however, enhancing
excitement and vitality will depend
on the introduction of new housing
options and businesses arranged
in a mixture of land uses. The
Sawdust District Master Plan strives
to strengthen the mixed-use
environment to this end.
Encourage a Pedestrian-
Oriented Environment
A mix of uses can also encourage
pedestrian activity. The Plan intends
to achieve a pedestrian-oriented
environment for the District, especially
along South Main Street, that improves
mobility while minimizing pedestrian
and automobile conflicts.
Capture the Eclectic Character
Historic buildings and features define
the district. To maintain the unique,
eclectic character they provide,
the Plan focuses on preserving
and integrating them into new
development scenarios wherever
possible.
Embrace the Waterfront
The confluence of the Fox River
and Lake Winnebago provide a
waterfront, which the Plan aims to
further cultivate and expand as an
asset for the District and the larger
Oshkosh community. Development
of the Riverwalk and improvements
to Pioneer Island will reinforce the
South Shore waterfront as a lively and
valuable community gathering space.
SAWDUST DISTRICT PLAN
Recommendations for the Sawdust District
are provided district-wide where appropriate.
Detailed and specific recommendations are further
defined for the six functional subareas.
In this Chapter:
District-Wide Recommendation (page 12)
Fuctional Subareas (page 28)
10 Sawdust District Master Plan
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2
3
4
9
7 8
11
15
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28
10
12
5
1
16
17
19
18
2021
22
23
26
29
31
6
30
24
25
27
1. Pedestrian and bike access
along existing bridge and an
under pass connecting the
riverwalk
2. Gateway feature and plaza
space announcing the entrance
into the Sawdust District
3. O ce or mixed use building
4. Single-family attached
5. Public plaza and open space
6. Mixed use infill development
along South Main Street
7. Mixed use development
(commercial and restaurants uses
on the groundfloor with o ce
and residential uses on the upper
floors)
8. O ce or mixed use building
9. Mixed use development
(commercial and entertainment
uses on the groundfloor with
o ce and residential uses on the
upper floors)
10. Parking for mixed use
development along South Main
Street
11. Parking deck for o ce or
mixed use (3 levels)
12. Riverwalk
13. Multi-family development
14. 9th Avenue
extension/connection
15. Trailhead and parking
16. Pedestrian bridge
17. Multi-family development
18. Hotel / resort
19. Pioneer plaza and gathering
area
20. Existing marina, boat storage,
and boat docks
21. Multi-family development
22. Trails, open space, and berm
buffering existing railyard
23. Arena
24. South Main Street roadway
improvements (using expanded
right-of-way)
25. Adjacent residential
neighborhood
26. Commercial infill
development along South Main
Street
27. South Main Street roadway
improvements (using current
right-of-way)
28. Commercial infill
development along South Main
Street
29. Multi-family development
30. Multi-family development
31. Single-family attached
Sawdust District Redevelopment Plan
CONCEPTUAL VISUALIZATIONCONCEPTUAL VISUALIZATION
Prepared by Houseal LavignePrepared by Houseal Lavigne
Sawdust District Master Plan 11
LAND USE
The Sawdust District contains a mix
of land uses divided by South Main
Street and framed by water on two
sides, however, the prominence of
vacant property and street-fronting
surface lots can create the impression
of an empty, inactive area. The land
use plan serves as a blueprint for the
location and type of future growth
and development within the Sawdust
District, outlining desired future uses
on a parcel-by-parcel basis. The land
use plan identifies uses for parcels to
encourage new development that can
create jobs and spur investment.
Land uses shown on the future
land use map have been selected as
appropriate in the Sawdust District
based on fieldwork and outreach
conducted for Imagine Oshkosh, as
well as subsequent fieldwork, outreach,
and aerial examination. The future
land use map shows a potential
scenario defining where specific land
uses may be located. The functional
subareas provide further information
on specific land uses.
SINGLE-FAMILY ATTACHED
Rowhomes, townhomes, and duplexes
increase density and act as a middle-
scale housing component between
single-family detached neighborhoods
and multi-family developments. These
uses should be considered in key areas
to provide a seamless transition into
single-family neighborhoods to the
west and south of the Sawdust District.
MULTI-FAMILY
To generate pedestrian traffic and
improve housing options for residents
in all stages of life, multi-family
housing should be developed in the
district. There is significant opportunity
for this housing type, including in new
lakefront development areas near the
marina, on either side of 10th Avenue,
and at the south end of the District.
Multi-family housing options should
be available at a variety of price points
in rental and condo configurations
to serve young professionals, senior
residents, and workforce residents.
MIXED USE
Mixed use development is key to the
walkability of the Sawdust District and
should be the definitive land use found
along the South Main Street corridor.
Mixed use developments improve
housing options and increase local
retail opportunities. Building types
should contribute to the street wall
that will define South Main Street.
COMMERCIAL
To serve the whole corridor, larger
commercial developments should be
considered between 14th and 15th
Avenues on the east side of South
Main Street. Parcels on the northwest
side of 14th Avenue and South Main
Street provide additional opportunity
for commercial uses. Commercial
uses in this part of the District should
further support Arena activity and
provide shopping opportunities for the
whole neighborhood, with easy access
from US 45 to the south.
ENTERTAINMENT AND HOSPITALITY
Entertainment and hospitality uses
should be increased in the District.
Catalyzed by the Menominee Nation
Arena, new hospitality uses should
be developed on Pioneer Island. New
entertainment development should
be encouraged immediately south
of the Arena, providing additional
opportunities to visitors and residents.
OFFICE
Office uses generate daytime activity
and support local businesses and
restaurants, especially during the lunch
hour. Smaller office spaces should be
considered on the east side of the
South Main Street corridor between
14th and 16th Avenues. The parcel
on the east side of South Main Street
between 7th and 8th Avenues should
be developed for a larger office/
business park use with access to the
South Main Street corridor and the
Riverfront.
DISTRICT WIDE
Recommendations specific to the needs of each functional
subarea establish the approach for improvement and
enhancement going forward. Detailed and specific
recommendations are articulated around desired land
uses, catalytic sites, design and redevelopment, specific
transportation improvements, public spaces, and
placemaking components for each of the subareas.
In this section:
Land Use (page 12)
Transportation (page 14)
Placemaking (page 23)
12 Sawdust District Master Plan
Fox River
Lake
Winnebago
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6th Ave
7th Ave
8th Ave
9th Ave
10th Ave
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12th Ave
South Park Ave
14th Ave
16th Ave
17th Ave
15th Ave
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Menominee
Nation Arena
Pioneer
Island
Single-Family Attached
Multi-Family
Mixed Use
Commercial
Entertainment and
Hospitality
O ce
Industrial
Parks and Open Space
Marina
Railroad
Public Parking
LAND USE PLAN
0 500 1,000250
FEET
NORTH
INDUSTRIAL
The industrial use on the south side
of the District remains appropriate
as South Main Street in the District
transitions to US 45. This use should
be maintained to provide stable
employment and draw regional
daytime activity to the area.
PARKS AND OPEN SPACE
Public open space should be further
developed as a distinguishing feature
of the District. Waterfronts are
premium spaces, and the confluence
of the Fox River and Lake Winnebago
means that the District boasts two.
The District should fully embrace these
waterfronts by preserving public open
space and providing river and lakefront
access to all.
MARINA
The marina should be updated and
maintained as a key waterfront
component that contributes to the
unique character of the Sawdust
District. Long term, the marina
use should continue to provide
recreational opportunities for boating
and fishing on Lake Winnebago.
RAILROAD
The Canadian National (CN) Railway
right-of-way and the CN Oshkosh rail
yard are components of CN’s active
North American rail network. The
railroad right of way will remain active
for the foreseeable future and should
be maintained as a land use in the
District.
PUBLIC PARKING
Public parking should be considered
carefully to provide adequate space
for the area. With new entertainment
uses and a thriving South Main Street
corridor, proposed parking between
8th and 9th Avenues should serve
new open space along the riverfront,
support new businesses along South
Main Street, and provide convenient
overflow access for evening events.
blendedwaxes.com
Sawdust District Master Plan 13
Fox River
Lake
Winnebago
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6th Ave
7th Ave
8th Ave
9th Ave
10th Ave
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11th Ave
12th Ave
South Park Ave
14th Ave
16th Ave
17th Ave
15th Ave
MA
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Menominee
Nation Arena
Pioneer
Island
Arterial Road
Collector Road
Loca Road
Alley and Access
Roadway Extension
Roadway Vacation
Average Daily Tra c Counts
ROADWAYS
0 500 1,000250
FEET
NORTH
#
12,000
10,500
9,000
3,600
5,300
2,400TRANSPORTATION
To support a dynamic environment, the
District’s transportation system must
be comprehensive and multimodal.
At the functional heart of the District
is the need to get around – on foot,
by bike, car, or bus. As an extension of
the Center City, the Sawdust District
should provide a pedestrian-oriented
environment while accounting for
the other modes. Adequate parking,
without a surplus, should be available.
The Sawdust District already enjoys
convenient access and mobility. As
the desired increase in intensity
of uses occurs, a fully connected
system will need to be supported
by the improvements identified in
this section. These include planned
and necessary capital improvement
projects, parking recommendations,
complete street principles, pedestrian
and bicycle mobility enhancements,
and transit connections.
COMPLETE STREET ELEMENTS
A complete street is a roadway that
is designed to be safe for all users of
the transportation network, including
motorists, transit riders, bicyclists,
and pedestrians. At its foundation,
complete streets reclaim the roadways
and equally account for the full
spectrum of potential users. This does
not mean that automobile movement
is ignored, but rather, complete
streets seek to incorporate sidewalks,
bike lanes, transit stops, and other
elements within the roadway.
A key recommendation in Imagine
Oshkosh was to develop a complete
streets plan. The City should also
consider adopting a complete streets
policy to encourage implementation
of complete streets elements as road
infrastructure is maintained and
updated. The recommendations with
the Sawdust District Master Plan are
intended to align with a complete
streets approach to the greatest extent
possible, given roadway constraints in
the District
ROADWAYS
There are four types of roadways
within the Sawdust District, each
with their own design and purpose.
Roadway types include:
Arterials carry the major portion of
trips entering and exiting the urban
area. South Main Street is the only
arterial in the District, functioning
as a primary route in and out of
Oshkosh.
Collector Roads connect
neighborhoods to South Main
Street and are intended to provide
access to neighborhood amenities
and community facilities.
Local Roads serve the largely
single-family neighborhoods to the
west of the District.
Alleys and Access Roads provide
utility and service connections for
businesses in the District.
Changes to the roadway network
within the Sawdust district include
the extension or vacation of existing
roadways.
Roadway Extensions are proposed
to improve connectivity and
strategically complete the street
grid.
Roadway Vacations are intended
to create opportunity for better
access to the riverfront or to create
opportunities to consolidate
parcels for larger development or
open space opportunities.
14 Sawdust District Master Plan
Shared Turn Lane
Right-of-Way
Travel LaneParkingPedestrian
Zone
Pedestrian
Zone
Travel Lane
60’
Right-of-Way
Travel LanePedestrian
Zone
Pedestrian
Zone
Travel LaneParking Parking
60’
Collector Roads
The District is served by two collectors,
9th Avenue and South Park Avenue,
each intended to connect surrounding
neighborhoods to South Main Street
and provide access community
destinations, such as schools,
churches, parks, and shopping areas.
At the north end of the District, 6th
Avenue is a collector road, designed to
distribute and collect traffic between
local roads and arterials. 6th, 9th,
and South Park Avenues should be
comfortable places to drive, walk, and
bicycle.
Collector roads leading to and from
the Sawdust District should be
pedestrian-oriented with standard six-
foot sidewalks, highly visible striped
crosswalks, and parkways to create
a separation between pedestrians
and the roadway. The typical 60-foot
right-of-way may also accommodate
dedicated on-street parking or bike
lanes. Streetlights should be both
pedestrian and vehicularly scaled,
with banners to promote the Sawdust
District and special events. Street trees
should be located within the parkway
or in tree grates in the sidewalk
depending on sidewalk width. Further,
design elements from the South Main
Street roadway treatment should be
incorporated to reinforce a unified
design theme throughout District.
Utility lines should be buried if feasible.
The City’s 2020-2024 Capital
Improvement Plan (CIP) identifies a
possible project to reconstruct 9th
Avenue from South Main Street to
just west of the CN Railroad tracks.
Recommended improvements should
coordinate with this project.
Local Roads
Local roads serve the largely single-
family neighborhoods to the west of
the District, but also connect to South
Main Street in alignment with the
City’s grid system.
Local roads are quieter and less busy
than collector roads and connect
adjacent neighborhoods to and from
the District. Considering wide lane
widths, parking may occur on-street
but does not necessarily require
demarcation. Standard six-foot
sidewalks are appropriate within the
pedestrian areas, along with a tree-line
parkway to enhance the image of local
roads. Streetlights within the parkway
should be scaled for vehicles. Given the
low volume of traffic, crosswalks do
not necessarily have to be striped or
formalized and designated bike lanes
are not necessary.
Alleys and Access Roads
Street-fronting buildings on the west
side blocks of South Main Street
between 9th and 16th Avenues
are served by alleys, a workhorse
component to the District’s
transportation system. Alleys
provide convenient rear access to
businesses for deliveries and garbage
pickup, keeping the utilitarian side
of local businesses out of the public
thoroughfare. These alleys should be
maintained as a key component of
South Main Street. The conditions of
the alleys should be well maintained
and free of visual clutter or litter.
Screening should be encouraged for
unattractive outdoor utility boxes and
trash cans.
Example Images
1.) Minor arterial roadway with on-street parking and landscaping 2.) Minor arterial
roadway with decorative brick and designated parallel parking 3.) Minor arterial with
designated parallel parking 4.) Collector roadway with parkway, landscaped median,
and designated bike lane
Example Images
1.) Residential roadway 2.) Residential roadway 3.) Commercial uses parking and
secondary access from alley 4.) Residential uses accessed from alley
2 4 2 4
1 3 1 3
Sawdust District Master Plan 15
Turn Lane
Right-of-Way
Travel LanePedestrian
Zone
Pedestrian
Zone
Travel Lane
60’
Right-of-Way
Travel LanesPedestrian
Zone
Pedestrian
Zone
Travel Lanes
60’
Turn Lane
Right-of-Way
Travel
Lane
ParkingParkingPedestrian
Zone
Pedestrian
Zone
Travel
Lane
80’
6th Avenue to 8th Avenue
This section should undergo a road diet to allow for a central
turning lane and a wider pedestrian zone. A road diet reduces
lanes in number or size to use the space for other modes of
transportation or street elements. In this case, wider sidewalks
with grated trees are added to provide a safer and more
comfortable pedestrian experience. Due to the lack of space for
bike lanes, bike in astructure can be provided as sharrows
along travel lanes. Sharrows indicate bicyclists share lanes with
automobile tra c. Bikeway facilities are further defined in the
bike network section.
8th Avenue to South Park Avenue
The most significant enhancements and road diet should be
implemented along this section. As development occurs,
property along the east side of South Main Street should be
acquired to increase the right-of-way to 80 feet by extending it
eastward. The new roadway composition should include two
on-street parking lanes, two travel lanes, a central turning lane,
and wide sidewalks with grated trees. Bike in astructure should
be provided as on-street sharrows or by converting a parking
lane to dedicated bike lanes.
South Park Avenue to 17th Avenue
Due to the limited width of this section’s right-of-way at 60
feet, decreased lane widths to 11 feet should be considered.
Landscaping should be provided on either side of the road, and
six-foot sidewalks should be maintained.
SOUTH MAIN STREET
South Main Street functions as an
arterial, carrying a major portion
of trips into the Center City and
functioning as a primary route in and
out of Oshkosh. To the south, South
Main Street transitions to Highway 45,
a north–south United States highway
spanning the country from border to
border.
South Main Street serves as the
spine of the Sawdust District and
should be the focus of future roadway
improvements. To be successful,
South Main Street must exhibit design
considerations and elements that
work together to make the District
attractive and welcoming. Many of
these components can already be
found in other areas of Oshkosh, a
testament to past planning, decision
making, and City leadership. South
Main Street should further build on
this existing foundation by creating
a corridor that is highly accessible for
both pedestrians and vehicles and
landscaped where right-of-way width
allows.
To foster a pedestrian environment,
wide and comfortable sidewalks
should be provided with opportunities
for mid-block crossings. At key
intersections, visible crosswalks with
varied materials should be constructed
to increase safety and create traffic-
calming effects. Shade trees, attractive
sidewalk landscaping, pedestrian-
scaled lighting, and outdoor seating
and amenities can also help
strengthen pedestrian-orientation.
The City should work with property
owners to enhance South Main
Street with attractive storefronts
featuring hospitable entrances, large
display windows, and awnings. Mixed
use buildings with commercial on
the ground floor and office and/or
residential above should be promoted
to activate the corridor, along with
rooftop spaces and sidewalk cafes.
Public gathering places and open
spaces are also desirable. On-street
parking should be provided for
convenience, but also for pedestrian
comfort. Parking lots should be located
behind buildings with attractive paths
connecting to the street.
The most recent South Main Street
traffic counts were conducted in
2019 for the segment between 8th
and 9th Avenues in the District. AADT
was measured at 12,200 vehicles. An
additional South Main Street count
measured AADT at 9,000 vehicles
between South Park Avenue and 12th
Avenue in 2016.
The City’s 2020-2024 Capital
Improvement Plan (CIP) identifies
the entire section of South Main
Street in the District for full
reconstruction in 2023, including
public utilities and laterals. The
Plan divides South Main Street
into three improvement sections,
with a variety of recommendations
to be considered based on traffic
volumes and surrounding uses.
These recommendations should
be considered before and during
reconstruction.
16 Sawdust District Master Plan
Short Term Improvements
Within the next two to three years, the City
should restripe South Main Street to designate
on-street parking, two travel lanes, and a
central turning lane. Interim striping can
improve the roadway before the larger
improvements outlined in the CIP take place.
Existing Cross Section
This cross section displays the existing
conditions of South Main Street. Currently,
there is a lack of landscaping and sidewalks run
directly next to oncoming tra c, creating an
uncomfortable walking experience.
Long Term Improvements
A er the acquisition of additional land to the
east, the City should expand the right-of-way
eastward to include wide pedestrian areas on
both sides of the street with sidewalks, grated
trees, two on-street parking lanes, two travel
lanes, and a central turning lane.
SOUTHEAST VIEW OF MAIN STREETPLAN VIEW
PHASING OF SOUTH MAIN STREET ROAD DIET
As road diets can be a costly and
lengthy process, intermediate
improvements can be implemented
to provide initial, short term
enhancements. The City should phase
improvements between 8th Street and
South Park Avenue as short and long
term improvements.
Sawdust District Master Plan 17
Lake
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Fox River
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7th Ave
8th Ave
9th Ave
10th Ave
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South Park Ave
14th Ave
16th Ave
17th Ave
15th Ave
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Menominee
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Pioneer
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Existing On-Street Parking
Proposed On-Street Parking
No On-Street Parking
Proposed Shared Parking Lot
or Garage
PARKING
PARKING
Parking in the Sawdust District should
accommodate visitors, employees, and
residents. Parking areas should consist
of a combination of on-street parking
and carefully considered off-street
parking lots or structures.
On-Street Parking
On-street parking areas should be
designed to provide short-term
convenient parking. On-street
parking narrows the street crossing
width, encourages slower speeds, and
provides a buffer between moving
motor vehicle traffic and pedestrians
along a sidewalk. A road diet and right-
of-way expansion along South Main
Street from 7th Avenue to South Park
Avenue will allow for parallel on-street
parking. Additional on-street
parking should be considered along
collector roads. On South Main Street,
businesses should be permitted to
count on-street parking in front of the
business toward parking minimums,
reducing the need for additional off-
street parking.
Off-Street Parking
Off-street parking lots and structures
should be designed and located so
that they are safe, efficient, and do
not disrupt the pedestrian scale of
the Sawdust District. Off-street public
parking is proposed between 8th and
9th Avenues and Nebraska Street and
8th Avenue to serve new open space
along the riverfront and businesses
along South Main Street. It should also
provide convenient access for overflow
evening event parking when needed.
Long term, a parking structure should
be considered between 8th and 9th
Avenues before additional surface lots
are developed. The structure should be
set behind street-fronting mixed use
buildings on South Main Street and
should be screened and landscaped
on the ground floor to maintain a
pleasant pedestrian experience.
Design
Certain off-street parking designs
should be implemented along South
Main Street throughout the District:
Between 6th Avenue and 11th
Avenue, parking should be not be
visible from South Main Street. All
parking, whether public parking
or an accessory lot for a business,
should be accessed off a side street
and located to the rear of buildings
wherever possible.
From 11th Avenue to 17th Avenue,
parking located along South Main
Street should be accessed from the
cross street to reduce the number
of curb cuts.
All parking lots should be well
landscaped and screened from
South Main Street.
Shared Parking
Shared parking is a best practice which
allows for parking to support different
uses at different times of day. Shared
parking can be formed by agreement
between two businesses, or between
a business and the City. An example
in the Sawdust District could be the
Arena offering daytime parking to
support local businesses when no
Arena events are scheduled. The City
should investigate shared parking
agreements to maximize existing
surface lots in the District. Public
parking furthers the shared parking
concept by providing facilities for all to
use.
Parking Signage
Public awareness should be improved
with methods to inform the
community of public parking options
within the Sawdust District. The
development and implementation of
a signage and wayfinding program,
community outreach efforts, and a
public parking branding strategy that
is cohesive with Center City parking
should make access easy and clear,
especially for visitors.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Example Images
1.) Parking garage 2.) Parking lot designed with
pedestrian connections 3.) Parking screened
with brick knee wall and landscaping 4.) Public
parking lot signage 5.) Parking lot designed with
pedestrian connections and interior landscaping
6.) Parking lot screen with landscaping 7.) Public
parking lot signage
18 Sawdust District Master Plan
Lake
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Fox River
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7th Ave
8th Ave
9th Ave
10th Ave
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Menominee
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Pioneer
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Existing Bike Route
Proposed Bike Route
Existing Riverwalk
Proposed Riverwalk
Proposed Trail
Proposed Trailhead
TRAILS AND
BIKE ROUTES
TRAILS
The Sawdust District has the capacity
to improve on the larger Oshkosh
trail network by developing key trail
segments and connections to the
Riverwalk along the Fox River and Lake
Winnebago. New lake and riverfront
development should continue to
incorporate trail connections. A new
trail along the existing railway should
be developed to provide a key north-
south route in the District, providing
connections to the Riverwalk at the
trailhead locations and contributing
to a cohesive system. Ultimately the
trail system in the District should be
pleasant but also utilitarian, serving
as both a useful transportation
connection and a place for leisure. Trail
wayfinding should cohesively integrate
with the bikeway wayfinding system.
Trailheads
The two proposed trailheads should
provide active transportation nodes,
acting as multimodal basecamps along
the waterfront, connecting trails, the
Riverwalk, and bike routes. The first, at
9th Avenue and Pioneer Drive, should
be the nonmotorized gateway to the
District and the waterfront. Trailhead
signage should include a history of
the Sawdust District and provide
a wayfinding map to encourage
enjoyment of the area on foot. Water
fountains, benches, and dog waste
stations should be provided.
At 14th Avenue and Pioneer Drive,
a south gateway trailhead should
mark the entrance to the system with
similar amenities provided. The 14th
Avenue trailhead should connect to
the marina, orienting trail users to the
waterfront and boaters to the District.
BIKE NETWORK
To encourage biking as a viable, safe,
and enjoyable mode of transportation
in the District, a quality bike
network should be developed. Close
consideration should be given to
the detailed bike and pedestrian
improvements outlined in the City’s
2019 Bike and Pedestrian Master Plan.
The network should be well-connected
and defined along key arterials and
collector roads, allowing residents from
adjacent neighborhoods and even
from neighboring communities to feel
comfortable biking throughout the
Sawdust District.
Expanding the Network
The City’s 2019 Bike and Pedestrian
Master Plan identified South Main
Street, 12th Avenue, Pioneer Drive, and
the Riverwalk around the perimeter of
Pioneer Island as new bikeway facilities
which should be developed.
The Bike and Pedestrian Master Plan
included the following criteria for
identifying recommended facilities:
Formalizing safe routes from origins
to destinations.
Eliminating gaps within the current
network.
Continuing the expansion of
the existing off-road facilities
utilizing natural and other areas of
opportunity.
Improve access and connectivity for
bicyclists and pedestrians within
the Oshkosh community.
The Sawdust District offers great
potential to improve recommended
facilities that meet each of these
criteria while adding a new waterfront
component to the City’s bike network.
On-street, improvements should
include dedicated bike lanes wherever
right-of-way width allows; where
lanes cannot accommodate a full bike
lane, sharrows demarcating shared-
lane routes should be incorporated.
Bikeways should be well-marked by
necessary striping and pavement
markings. All bikeways should be
clearly designated with signage,
which can be incorporated within
a broader wayfinding program as
well as streetscaping enhancement
projects. Bikeway wayfinding should
also cohesively integrate with the trail
wayfinding system.
Bicycle Parking
To encourage bicycle usage within the
Sawdust District, additional bike racks
should be added along designated
bicycle routes and at key destinations
such as the two trailhead locations.
Bicycle parking should be incorporated
within any streetscaping enhancement
projects. To encourage shopping
by bike, the City should work with
local businesses to implement a bike
parking request program, allowing
business owners to request bike racks
for the right-of-way in front of their
store. The City should investigate using
on-street parking spaces on certain
blocks for bike parking corrals, which
would provide parking for 10 to 20
bikes in the space previously occupied
by one parked vehicle.
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Example Images
1.) Trail signage with map of community’s parks
and trails system 2.) Bike route directional
signage 3.) Section of trail along water with
protective bollards 4.) Marked on-street
bike lane 5.) Decorative bike parking 6.) Bike
intersection crossing 7.) River side trail with
painted lanes
Sawdust District Master Plan 19
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Existing Sidewalk
Proposed Sidewalk
Signalized Intersection
Railroad Crossing
SIDEWALKS &
INTERSECTIONS
SIDEWALKS
Movement of pedestrians throughout
the District is critical. A safe and
attractive pedestrian environment can
significantly contribute to the overall
comfort, character, and appeal of the
Sawdust District, helping catalyze
additional investment. The width,
placement, and design of sidewalks, as
well as their use on different roadway
classifications, can have a significant
impact on pedestrian comfort and
overall use. As opportunities arise in
the Sawdust District, and especially
in coordination with South Main
Street capital improvements, the City
should utilize sidewalk best practices
which take into consideration specific
needs for the roadway. These should
be incorporated within streetscaping,
general maintenance, and other public
works projects to gradually update
sidewalk gaps, creating a complete,
well-connected sidewalk network.
Sidewalk Zones
Well-functioning sidewalks consist
of four distinct zones of activity that
provide for a safe and comfortable
pedestrian experience. This includes
a frontage zone to buffer the building
from pedestrians and allow space
for dining or merchandise displays;
a pedestrian zone that is free of
obstacles for people to travel; a utility
zone for trees, planters, and light and
utility poles; and a curb zone that
serves as a transition area between the
sidewalk and road.
Sidewalk Types
Curb-side sidewalks are directly
adjacent to the roadway. This
sidewalk placement can create an
uncomfortable pedestrian experience,
with pedestrians adjacent to moving
traffic. Curb-side sidewalks should be
a minimum of six feet in width with a
preferred width of eight feet to provide
a wider buffer to the travel lanes. The
presence of on-street parking can
assist to create a barrier between the
sidewalk and traffic, while textured
pavers, planters, and street trees can
enhance long expanses of pavement.
Parkway sidewalks are separated
from the roadway with landscaping
elements such as grass, flowers,
or trees. Where the right-of-way
allows, parkway sidewalks are the
preferred sidewalk treatment to
provide a landscaped buffer between
pedestrians and vehicles. In addition to
enhancing pedestrian safety, parkways
have the potential to accommodate
sustainable landscaping techniques
including bioswales, rainwater inlets,
and rain gardens, as well as provide
opportunities to establish a tree
canopy.
INTERSECTIONS AND CROSSWALKS
The safe and easy crossing of roads
is integral to a pedestrian-oriented
environment. Common tools utilized
to aid in safe crossing include signage,
striping, countdown timers, and
bump-outs. The type of tools used
should vary based on the functional
classification of the intersecting
roadways, surrounding land uses, and
type of pedestrian route.
Transverse Crosswalks
These are traditional crosswalk
markings, using two parallel bands to
delineate pedestrian space. This type
of crosswalk marking is difficult for
motorists to see, which poses a safety
hazard to pedestrians. Transverse
crosswalks should not be used.
Continental Crosswalk
These crosswalks are considered
high-visibility, which are more easily
seen by drivers. Use of continental
crosswalks rather than transverse
crosswalk markings have been shown
to significantly increase intersection
safety. These should be implemented
as a best practice for all non-signalized
South Main Street crossings in the
District.
Decorative Crosswalk
These crosswalks delineate pedestrian
crossing areas using decorative
elements, such as colored or textured
concrete or stamped asphalt. They
create a sense of place and identity
within an area; however, low contrast
designs can lead to decreased
visibility. This crosswalk treatment
is best used for roadways with slow
travel speeds and few travel lanes and
can be combined with continental
crosswalks to further increase visibility.
The City should consider decorative
components for crosswalks at key
signalized intersections, including at
South Park and South Main Street, and
at 6th Avenue and South Main Street.
Signalized Intersections
Signalized intersections are the busiest
and most prominent intersections
within the District. Signalized
intersections are on South Main
Street at 6th Avenue, 9th Avenue, and
South Park Avenue which should be
considered the core intersections of
the District. As definitive stopping
points for passing motor vehicles,
these should be a focus for street-
fronting buildout as development
occurs.
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Example Images
1.) Mid-block crossing 2.) Continental crosswalk
with pedestrian crossing signage 3.) Wide
curb-side sidewalk with landscaping 4.)
Parkway sidewalk with street trees 5.) Mid-block
continental pedestrian crossing with signage 6.)
Transverse crosswalks
20 Sawdust District Master Plan
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Existing Witzel and 9th Route
Proposed Witzel and 9th
Route Extension
Witzel and 9th Stop
Proposed Witzel and 9th
Route Stop
BUS ROUTES
PUBLIC TRANSIT
Go Transit serves the City of Oshkosh
with reliable, affordable, and accessible
public transportation. The Sawdust
District benefits from the system’s
Witzel/9th route, which operates along
South Main Street at the north side of
the District. One stop is provided at the
corner of 7th Avenue and South Main
Street as the bus heads northbound
toward the Center City on a circulator
route.
Coordinating with Development
As the Sawdust District develops, the
City should work with Go Transit to
provide a total of three stops and a
new loop on the Witzel/9th route. New
route patterns and transit stops should
be considered as follows:
As the bus proceeds east, it should
turn right instead of left on South
Main Street.
A new transit stop should be
provided at South Park Avenue to
serve Menominee Nation Arena
and the surrounding area.
The bus should travel east on 14th
Avenue before heading north on
Pioneer Drive.
An additional new transit stop
should be sited near the pedestrian
bridge to Pioneer Island to serve
new development.
The bus should turn left on the
newly connected 9th Avenue before
turning right on South Main Street.
The bus should resume the normal
route and stop at 7th Avenue
before heading into the Center City.
Stop and Shelters
Transit stops in the District should
be fully improved with benches,
shelters, and informational signage.
These improvements should include
a branding effort to contribute to the
image of the Sawdust District.
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Example Images
1.) Bus stop and shelter 2.) Bus route map
and schedule at bus stop 3.) Oshkosh bus 4.)
Bus shelter 5.) Pioneer Resort 6.) Menominee
National Arena
Sawdust District Master Plan 21
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Existing Route
TRUCK ROUTES
RAILROADS
The Canadian National (CN)
Railway provides a reminder of the
industrial heritage of the District
and the important role that freight
transportation still plays in the City.
The active CN rail line runs through
the eastern portion of the Sawdust
District in a north-south direction.
More than 20 trains per day use the
rail line, which extends from Fond du
Lac through Oshkosh, heading north
to Neenah, Menasha, and Appleton.
The rail line and switching lines form a
physical barrier between Pioneer Island
and the properties to the west along
South Main Street.
With no grade-separated railroad
crossings, the rail line threatens
connectivity between Pioneer Island
and the rest of the Sawdust District.
The height of the railroad bridge over
the Fox River creates an additional
barrier which disrupts boat travel and
inhibits the extension of the Riverwalk
further east to Lake Winnebago. In
addition, the rail line acts as a major
barrier to lakefront development and
investment to the Sawdust District.
Mitigating Rail Impacts
Beautification elements, such as
landscaping, decorative streetlights,
or new railroad gates, should be
incorporated to decrease the relatively
industrial character and improve the
overall appearance of the corridor.
Railroad Crossings
With more pedestrian and bicyclist
activity, safety around the railroad
should be improved. The trail crossing
at the railroad should be enhanced
with crossing gates, flashing light
signals, crossbuck signs, audible
devices, and pavement markings.
In addition to the existing crossing
gates, the Pioneer Drive rail crossing
at the north side of the District and
the 14th Avenue crossing to the south
should include approaching sidewalks,
flashing light signals, crossbuck
signs, audible devices, and pavement
markings.
TRUCK ROUTES
The City of Oshkosh has several
designated multi-axle truck routes
used for the delivery of industrial and
commercial goods. While designated
truck routes prevent significant noise
and traffic impacts to local roads, the
concentration of truck traffic on key
corridors can have negative impacts
on the areas they cross. South Main
Street and 9th Avenue are existing
designated truck routes that run
through the Sawdust District, which
the City should closely monitor. As
the Sawdust District redevelops and
move away from its industrial past,
truck routes may become a hindrance
to pedestrian-oriented developments,
particularly along South Main Street.
As necessary, truck routes should
be reviewed for rerouting to protect
pedestrian-oriented environments,
while still allowing for efficient
movement of trucks within the
community.
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Example Images
1.) Railroad buffer from surroundings by
vegetation 2-4.) Railroad crossing with crossing
gate and flashing light signals 5.) Truck route
through community’s traditional downtown
area 6.) Truck route through community’s
commercial corridor
22 Sawdust District Master Plan
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Major Gateway Feature
Minor Gateway Element
Wayfinding Signage
GATEWAY &
WAYFINDING
PLACEMAKING
The success of the Sawdust District
will be defined by its character.
Placemaking is focused on creating
public spaces that promote activity
and identity. This section provides
recommendations to improve the
District’s function and to make this
segment of South Main Street a
destination street. Specifically, it
addresses the relationship between
people, the built form, and public
spaces. Placemaking is intended
to foster a comfortable, active, and
attractive character for the Sawdust
District.
STREETSCAPING
South Main Street should feature
streetscaping that is heavily
pedestrian-oriented to improve the
aesthetic and connectivity across
the Sawdust District. Streetscape
improvements, including lighting,
sidewalks, signage, gateways and
wayfinding, public art, and gathering
spaces should continue to be
implemented to enhance the image
and appearance of the District.
Streetlights should be both pedestrian
scaled, with banners to promote the
Sawdust District and its special events.
Street trees should be located within
the parkway or in tree grates in the
sidewalk depending on sidewalk
width. New streetscaping and
pedestrian enhancements will improve
connectivity across the Sawdust
District.
Gateway and Wayfinding Signage
To announce arrival to the Sawdust
District, gateway features should be
employed in key locations. Gateway
features can be achieved through
signage at ground level or through
unique architectural elements.
Attractive landscaping should work
with lighting and other vertical design
features to complement the signage
and architectural elements. A north
gateway feature should be developed
at 6th Avenue and South Main Street,
and a south gateway feature at
17th Avenue and South Main Street.
Trailheads should also act as gateways,
connecting trail users to bikeways,
the Riverwalk, the waterfront, and the
marina.
Wayfinding signage assists people
in finding important community
landmarks, while enhancing the
streetscape. Like gateway features,
wayfinding should consist of signage
complemented by landscaping and
lighting. Wayfinding features should
be in key locations to direct people to
destinations.
In the Sawdust District, it is important
that a visitor knows which streets
access the waterfront, how to get
to Menominee Nation Arena, and
where to find parking. Additionally,
wayfinding should direct visitors to
historic sites and buildings.
A component of wayfinding should
include distinct signage along the
Riverwalk. This should be cohesive
with the overall branding effort for
the District, but also indicate the
connection to the City’s existing
network of bikeways and trails.
Improvements such as mile markers
can benefit bicyclists and joggers.
Riverwalk signage may also include the
distance to the Center City and other
Oshkosh landmarks accessible on
foot or by bike outside of the Sawdust
District.
Major and Minor Gateway Features
Larger, more prominent gateway
features should be located along the
South Main Street at 6th Avenue,
9th Avenue, and South Park Avenue.
Additional minor gateways can be
developed along secondary roadways
as deemed necessary per traffic counts
and future development.
Public Art
Public art can foster community pride,
encourage healthier lifestyles, reduce
vandalism and cost, expand learning
and awareness, and strengthen
the local art community. Public art
installations should be prioritized
within the Sawdust District to improve
the area’s appearance, vitality, and
interest. Public art installations should
be prioritized at prominent locations,
such as the key north and south
gateways.
As the Sawdust District develops,
additional artistic elements should be
incorporated. Local artists should be
invited to participate in streetscape
or infrastructure projects to create a
more cohesive identity and take full
advantage of capital improvement
projects and investment.
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Example Images
1.) Downtown Oshkosh wayfinding signage
2.) Informational signage about public art
displayed in a community 3.) Mural representing
the community 4.) Public art on a street corner
5.) Wayfinding signage with brochures for
nearby businesses and events 6.) Information
map and key 7.) Public art built into natural
landscape
Sawdust District Master Plan 23
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Proposed Riverwalk
Interim Riverwalk Connection
Proposed Main Street Bridge
Underpass
Marina
Pioneer Island
Pedestrian Bridge
CONNECTING
TO THE WATER
CONNECTIONS TO THE WATER
As a community with access to a river
and lake, Oshkosh has the advantage
of drawing in residents and visitors to
partake in a variety of water-based
recreation, events, and activities.
Riverwalk
When completed, the full Riverwalk will
be nearly continuous along both sides
of the Fox River from Wisconsin Street
in the west to Lake Winnebago in the
east, connecting with the University
of Wisconsin via the Oshkosh and
the Wiouwash Trail. At present,
the northern shore of the project
is complete while the south shore
portion in the Sawdust District remains
mostly incomplete.
The Riverwalk is key for the activity and
liveliness of the District. The proposed
Riverwalk segments will provide access
to Pioneer Island and Lake Winnebago,
and to adjacent developments where
appropriate. Views and access to
the water should be maximized and
enhanced whenever and wherever
possible. The Riverwalk should provide
pedestrian access to popular fishing
on Lake Winnebago, well-known for its
walleye and ice fishing.
While the Riverwalk should support
bike and pedestrian activity in the
summer, it should not limit access for
this year-round sport.
Interim Connections
As the City works with property owners
to acquire easements for riverfront
access, interim connections should be
established for Riverwalk gaps. These
should include on-street wayfinding,
directing pedestrians and bicyclists to
low-stress routes that return them to
the Riverwalk quickly and efficiently.
South Main Street Bridge
The South Main Street bridge
establishes the north point of entry
to the District. While sidewalks are
provided, the City should investigate
defining a bike route on the bridge
deck with signage and pavement
markings. Existing road width and
bridge infrastructure constraints may
limit pavement markings to sharrows
rather than a dedicated bike lane.
Where the south end of the bridge
meets Pioneer Drive, the City should
construct a Riverwalk underpass to
provide stress-free off-road access
for bicyclists, pedestrians, and joggers,
improving the District’s capacity and
connectivity for recreational use.
Marina
The marina should be developed as
an active water recreation area for
the Sawdust District. Development
and reinvestment in this area should
leverage the waterfront area as a
community amenity by improving
public access to the waterfront and
maintaining views of the water and
horizon. New development should pull
the lakefront and water areas inland,
rather than walling off the waterfront
from other parts of the community. As
new multi-family development occurs
near the marina, the City should work
to ensure compatibility between the
uses.
Pioneer Island
Pioneer Island is located east of
Pioneer Drive near the confluence of
the Fox River and Lake Winnebago.
Previously a resort, operations have
since ceased and the facilities remain
vacant. Moving forward, the City
should redevelop Pioneer Island as a
new resort or entertainment-based
facility, with an adjacent residential
component. A plaza-style public
gathering space on the southeast
tip of the island should be provided,
giving opportunities for events such as
concerts, weddings, and community
activities. Given the unique location
and high visibility of this site, it
should be developed as a pinnacle
development and focal point for the
District, providing beautiful views of
the lake and welcoming individuals
traveling into the community from the
water.
Pedestrian Bridge
The Pioneer Island pedestrian bridge
sits unused, connecting the northwest
corner of the island to the mainland.
As the island is redeveloped, the City
should undertake a structural study
and return it to service, providing
increased bike and pedestrian
connection to the island. Access
points are key to good trail networks.
Providing dedicated car-free access
to Pioneer Island will encourage users
to enjoy this segment of the Riverwalk
around the island perimeter.
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Example Images
1.) Riverwalk with benches, banner signage,
and landscaping 2.) Access to water through
water based recreational activities 3.) Creek trail
signage showing location of access points and
parks 4.) Wide waterfront trail can be used as
gathering space 5.) Scenic waterfront trail with
public open space 6.) Pedestrian bridge with
clean and comfortable underpass
24 Sawdust District Master Plan
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Development should
incorporate water ont into
the design and siting
WATERFRONT
DEVELOPMENT
Waterfront Developments
A best practice to developing the
waterfront areas is to avoid walling
off the waterfront with adjacent
development. It is important for the
waterfront to visible as far inland as
possible. Appropriate spacing between
buildings and the maintenance and
enhancement of view corridors to
the water are essential for leveraging
the waterfront for the entire Sawdust
District, not just the inhabitants of the
development at the water’s edge.
Water Traffic
The Fox River connects Lake
Winnebago to Lake Butte des Morts
and acts as a watery highway for
canoes, kayaks, motorboats, and the
Loos Cruises. For boaters, the first
impression of the Sawdust District will
be what they see from the water. It is
critical that the waterfront is inviting
and attractive.
Appearance From the Water
The City should make it a policy to
consider the Sawdust District from
the perspective of a boat-driver or
passenger. Views from the water
should be a key element of review for
development proposals for river and
lakefront properties. Unattractive uses,
such as truck parking and storage,
should not be visible from the river.
Pioneer Island should provide a
pinnacle for both the riverfront and
lakefront, establishing an inviting and
attractive first sight.
A Boat-Friendly Waterfront
Public spaces along the waterfront
should be improved with boat-friendly
features, such as docks, boat launches,
or maintenance stations; waterfront
uses in the District should include
restaurants and civic spaces to host
public events and activities. Waterfront
signage and gateway elements should
be directed toward boats entering the
District. Oshkosh’s ties to boating and
water-based recreation should be kept
in mind for all elements of the Sawdust
District, reflected in promotional
materials, branding, and wayfinding.
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Example Images
1.) Riverwalk with direct access to water
2.) Oshkosh riverwalk 3.) Developments along
river incorporate riverwalk into design 4.) Wide
riverwalk could be used as public gathering
space 5.) Developments along river with outdoor
dinner to take advantage of views
Sawdust District Master Plan 25
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Potential Gathering Space
GATHERING SPACE
GATHERING SPACES
Places where people can gather to
eat, chat, or people watch should be
developed to bring people together
and contribute to the liveliness of
the District. Certain locations in
the District can be improved to feel
more like established gathering
places for small or large groups.
The District’s flagship plaza-style
public gathering space should be
on the southeast corner of Pioneer
Island, oriented toward visitors and
residents alike. Riverfront parks and
open space should provide additional
landscaping, pedestrian amenities, and
site furnishings to serve as informal
gathering places.
Events
Pioneer Island, new parks, trailhead
areas, and Menominee Nation Arena
provide varying scales and types of
spaces for hosting community events.
Going forward, larger Sawdust District
open areas and gathering spaces
should be used for regular community
events or festivals. Smaller spaces
should be used for shorter, minor
events.
Pedestrian Activities
Outdoor dining, pedestrian arcades,
and plazas should complement
buildings whenever possible
and should provide interest and
engagement along the street frontage
and waterfront. Pedestrian amenities
welcome visitors and provide positive
visual impact for gathering spaces.
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Example Images
1.) Oshkosh Opera House Square 2.) Large
sidewalks create space for gathering 3.) Farmers
market 4.) Public roadways used fro community
event 5.) Music event in public plaza 6.) Public
art air
26 Sawdust District Master Plan
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HISTORIC
PRESERVATION
Oshkosh Landmark
National Register Landmark
Potential for Adaptive Reuse
ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN
New development in the Sawdust
District should establish an
architectural style that can strengthen
the area’s character and distinguish
Oshkosh from surrounding
communities. New buildings are
encouraged to use high quality
materials and reflect the predominant
scale, height, massing, and proportions
of traditional downtowns. They
should incorporate materials that
complement preserved historic
structures.
Two primary orientations, street
frontage and waterfront, should be
reinforced in the Sawdust District.
Street fronting buildings should be
oriented toward South Main Street to
capitalize on its active environment.
Waterfront buildings should be
positioned to take in views of Lake
Winnebago, and to enjoy the open
space amenities found along the river.
The proposed trails, open space, and
berm buffering the rail yard will require
buildings facing the water to embrace
a public “front yard.”
HISTORIC PRESERVATION
Historic structures area a defining
component of the of the District’s
charm, fostering a unique sense of
character and place. As development
occurs, local and national landmarks
such as the Granary and Brooklyn
No. 4 Firehouse should be preserved.
New development should also be
context sensitive, seeking to improve
the District while respecting existing
historic structures. The City should
work closely with the Oshkosh
Landmarks Commission to ensure
that structures are considered for
preservation prior to redevelopment.
Adaptive Reuse
The City should encourage and
incentivize reinvestment and reuse
of historic buildings in the District.
To achieve this, the City should
expand available financing tools,
provide technical assistance with the
conversion process, assist with grant
applications, perform complimentary
public right-of-way improvements,
and streamline the reinvestment
process by updating City policy.
Buildings identified for adaptive reuse
and preservation may not end up on
the national landmark list, but they will
still contribute to the character South
Main Street corridor.
Façade Restoration
Façade restoration is an important tool
for historic preservation and adaptive
reuse. Restoration of historic facades
within the Sawdust District should
be prioritized, especially for those
buildings which have been covered
up, significantly altered, or fallen into
disrepair. The City should consider
developing new funding assistance for
façade restoration.
Salvaging and reusing historical
architectural elements can encourage
the creative utilization of pieces of
older buildings and infrastructure
when demolishing or replacing older
structures. Reuse of architectural
elements can show a connection to
the past and uphold the District’s
history. For example, if the CN rail
bridge was to be replaced, the existing
bridge could be re-purposed as a bike/
pedestrian crossing.
21 3 54
Example Images
1.) The Granary building 2.) Brooklyn No. 4
Firehouse 3.) Existing buildings between 6th
and 7th Avenues 4.) Existing building near
9th Avenue and South Main Street 5.) Existing
buildings between 9th and 10th Avenue
Sawdust District Master Plan 27
FUNCTIONAL
SUBAREAS
Based on existing land use, built
form, physical boundaries, character,
market potential, and other factors, the
Sawdust District has been separated
into six functional subareas. These
subareas are intended to guide
planning efforts within the Sawdust
District, allowing for recommendations
and policies which address the
specific needs of each distinct area.
By addressing the planning area as
functional subareas, planning efforts
should be context sensitive while
ensuring that separate districts work
cohesively as a single district. The
subareas should provide a framework
for incremental development to build
into.
DESIRED LAND USE
The Plan aims to redevelop the
Sawdust District into a thriving, mixed
use district that expands on the
City’s donwtown, providing attractive
entertainment and higher density
residential options. This section
identifies desired land uses within the
subarea, accounting for existing uses
and context.
DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
For the District to be successful,
attention must be given to the built
form and design of future development
and its relationship to other structures
and spaces. This section addresses
desirable structural design and site
layout components within the District,
including height, setback, orientation,
and architectural style.
TRANSPORTATION
At the functional heart of the
Sawdust District is the need to get
around – by foot, bike, car, boat, and
bus. The District should provide a
pedestrian-oriented environment
while accommodating the automobile
and necessary parking. By building
on the existing street network and
current facilities and programming, this
section provides recommendations to
enhance multimodal accessibility and
incorporate complete street principals
within the District’s roadways.
PLACEMAKING
Urban design is about making
connections between people and
places, movement and urban form,
nature and the built fabric, public
spaces and private places. Urban
design draws together the many
components of place-making and
seeks to create a place with distinct
beauty and identity. This section of
the Plan addresses many facets of
urban design, including streetscaping,
activating public spaces, and
establishing sense of place and scale.
FUNCTIONAL SUBAREAS
Recommendations specific to the needs of each functional
subarea establish the approach for improvement and
enhancement going forward. Detailed and specific
recommendations are articulated around desired land
uses, catalytic sites, design and redevelopment, specific
transportation improvements, public spaces, and
placemaking components for each of the subareas.
In this section:
West Transitional (page 30)
Core (page 31)
River North (page 32)
Arena (page 33)
Pioneer (page 34)
South Gateway (page 35)
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LAND USES PERMITTED
RESIDENTIAL LAND USES
P M P M M C Townhouse (3-8 units per building)
M M P M M C Multiplex (3-8 unites per building)
P M C M M C Apartment (3+ units per building)
AGRICULTURAL LAND USES
C C C C C C Community Garden
C C C C C C Market Garden
INSTITUTIONAL LAND USES
C C C C C C Passive Outdoor Recreation
C C C C C C Active Outdoor Recreation
COMMERCIAL LAND USES
P P P P P P Office
P M P M M P Personal or Professional Services
M M P M M P Indoor Sales or Service
P M M M M P Physical Activity Studio
P M M M M P Artisan Production Shop
P M M M M P Commercial Kitchen
P M P M P P Restaurants, Taverns & Indoor Commercial
Entertainment
C M C X X P Group Daycare Center
C X C X X C Commercial Animal Boarding/Daycare
P M X X X P Tattoo Parlor/Body Piercing Studio
P M X X X P Tobacco and Paraphernalia Shop
P M X X M P Cell Phone Stores
P M X X X P Pawn Shop
C X X X X C Pay Day Advance
X X X X X C Drive-Through & In-Vehicle Sales or Service
P M X X X P Liquor Store
X X X X X C Dollar/Discount Store
P P P P P P Commercial Indoor Lodging
X X X P X C Water-Related Recreation
P M C P P P Outdoor Commercial Entertainment
X X C C C X Intensive Outdoor Activity
X X X X X X Adult Uses/Adult Bookstore
MIXED USE BUILDINGS
P P P P P P Apartments with Limited Commercial
P P P P P P Mixed Use Building
C C X X X C Live/Work Unit
TRANSPORTATION LAND USES
C C C C C C Off-Site Parking Lot
C C C C C C Off-Site Structured Parking
COMMUNICATION/ENERGY PRODUCTION
C C C C C C Communication Tower
C C C C C C Large Wind Energy System
P - by right; C - by conditional use permit; M - permitted only as part of a mixed use development; X - not desired
28 Sawdust District Master Plan
45
River NorthSubarea
PioneerSubarea
ArenaSubarea
South GatewaySubarea
WestTransitionalSubarea
CoreSubarea
Sawdust District Redevelopment Plan
FUNCTIONAL SUBAREAS FUNCTIONAL SUBAREAS
Prepared by Houseal LavignePrepared by Houseal LavignePrepared by Houseal LavignePrepared by Houseal Lavigne
Sawdust District Master Plan 29
WEST TRANSITIONAL
Historically, the West Transitional Subarea contained single family residential
uses between South Main Street and Nebraska Street. The subarea displays
a mixed use character that includes older structures, which have been
adaptively reused. The Redevelopment Authority has acquired most of
the parcels in the block between 7th and 8th avenues west of South Main
Street. This area should be redeveloped; however, the parcels will require
appropriate environmental remediation which can greatly increase the cost.
The Subarea has experienced some revitalization. The former Miles Kimball site
at the northeast corner of 9th Avenue and Nebraska Street was redeveloped
for townhouse-style rental apartments, an ideal infill housing type for the area.
Using historic tax credits, the landmarked Granary Building was repurposed as
Greene’s Pour House. The bar and restaurant will continue to benefit from new
activity in the area. Additional catalyst developments include the former industrial
building at 46 West 6th Avenue, which was converted into professional offices.
KEY GOALS
Redevelop existing structures in the neighborhood. Outside of the Granary
Building, townhouses, and a few thriving businesses, the West Transitional Subarea
presents opportunity for new development patterns and uses to drive activity.
Define the intersection of 6th Avenue and South Main Street as a gateway
entrance to the Sawdust District. This is the primary north entrance to the
District. The gateway entrance prominently reflect the Sawdust District as drivers,
pedestrians, and bicyclists enter over the South Main Street bridge.
DESIRED LAND USES
Entertainment
Gateway parcels such as
the one at the northwest
corner of 6th Avenue and
South Main Street can serve
a variety of purposes. If this
site becomes available, it
should be redeveloped into
a mixed use entertainment
development, providing
office or residential above
ground floor entertainment
development designed to
capture water and pedestrian
traffic. Alternately, the
current owner may consider
capitalizing on new activity
in the district by rebuilding in
alignment with the concept
visualization, adding space
for additional waterfront
entertainment businesses.
Mixed Use
The 6th Avenue collector
is ideal for mixed use
development that improves
housing options and increase
local retail opportunities.
Building types should
contribute to the street wall
and complement the Granary
and Brooklyn Firehouse
historic sites.
Single-Family Attached
New single-family townhomes
or duplexes should be
developed between 7th
Avenue and 8th Avenue along
Nebraska Street, mirroring
the existing single-family
attached development to
the south, increasing density
and providing middle-scale
housing options. This site
is ideally situated between
single-family detached
neighborhoods to the west
and the mixed use activity of
South Main Street to the east.
Multi-Family
The subarea presents an
excellent opportunity for
new multi-family housing,
accommodating residents
in all stages of life. Multi-
family housing options
should be oriented toward
the waterfront. It should be
developed at a variety of price
points in rental and condo
configurations to serve young
professionals, senior residents,
and workforce residents.
Residents will further benefit
from easy access to new
development along South
Main Street.
Marina
Like the larger lakefront
marina, this marina area
should be updated and
maintained as a key riverfront
component that contributes
to the unique character of
the District. Opportunities for
boating and fishing on the
Fox River and Lake Winnebago
make the District unique, and
the two marinas bookend
the district with water access.
Public riverfront amenities
should be provided.
Public Parking
The public lot would provide
additional parking for activity
along 6th Avenue. The
parking should be situated
on 7th Avenue behind
mixed use buildings, and
a shared approach should
be taken to offer daytime
parking for businesses and
evening parking for new
entertainment uses.
DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
One- to three-story buildings
should be built at or near
the property line along
6th Avenue, encouraging
a pedestrian-oriented
environment.
Active pedestrian uses, such
as mixed use developments
or entertainment, should be
encouraged at the corner of
6th Avenue and South Main
Street.
Single-family attached
residential development
should be located between
7th Avenue and 9th Avenue
along Nebraska Street.
Development along the Fox
River should provide public
access and scenic views via
the proposed Riverwalk.
Historic buildings should be
preserved and enhanced for
adaptive reuse. The Granary
is a good model for reuse.
The well-preserved Brooklyn
Firehouse offers a similar
opportunity for activation.
TRANSPORTATION
Both 6th and 9th avenues
serve as collectors through
the subarea and should be
streetscaped to promote a
pedestrian environment that
draws people from western
neighborhoods.
The existing bike route
along 6th Avenue should
be maintained, while the
proposed bike route on 9th
Avenue should be developed
to provide multimodal
connections to the west.
PLACEMAKING
A significant gateway feature
should be developed at 6th
Avenue and South Main Street
to welcome those entering
the District.
Entry to the District should
be further defined by
redevelopment on the parcel
at 6th Avenue and South
Main Street.
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30 Sawdust District Master Plan
CORE
The Core Subarea is built around the prominent South Main Street corridor,
which connects directly to the Center City across the South Main Street Bridge.
Several historic buildings that stand intact establish the historic fabric of the
corridor. The Core is the most active subarea in the Sawdust District, with a
steady flow of vehicular traffic heading to and from the Center City. The Core
should enhance connections between the North and South Main Street.
The Core is currently auto oriented, allocating little space for pedestrian
activity. Redevelopment within the subarea should include pedestrian-
oriented accommodations and thoughtful roadway designs which
provide multimodal mobility and minimize pedestrian-vehicle conflicts.
Visitors should be welcomed by a prominent gateway feature to the
north and enhancements to the Al Broullire Memorial Garden.
KEY GOALS
Reestablish the historic South Main Street building and development pattern.
The street wall is a defining feature of the Core. The Core’s South Main Street
blocks should be a model for the larger Sawdust District, and new development
should reflect their historic development pattern. Additionally, consistency
with the City’s North Main Street Historic District will help achieve the goal of
reestablish the historic South Main Street pattern.
Rehabilitate existing historic buildings wherever possible. There are structurally
sound buildings some of the blocks in the Core. While these may not be
landmarked, they contribute to the overall character of the district and they should
be maintained and rehabilitated.
De-industrialize the subarea. Industrial and manufacturing businesses previously
occupied large portions of the east side of South Main Street in the Core. To
create an active South Main Street Corridor that contains attractive shops and
offices, some remaining businesses require relocation to designated industrial and
business parks.
DESIRED LAND USES
Mixed Use
Mixed use buildings should
include commercial on the
ground floor with residential
and office uses on the upper
floors. First floors should
provide higher ceilings for
attractive commercial spaces
that invite passersby to enter.
Office
Office uses that generate
daytime activity and
support local businesses
and restaurants should
be considered for the area
between 6th Avenue and
8th Avenue along South
Main Street. The office
park’s buildings should
front the property line along
South Main Street, while
orienting the campus toward
surrounding open space and
the Riverwalk to the east.
Parks and Open Space
The Al Broullire Memorial
Garden should be maintained,
improved, and connected with
the Riverwalk. The Garden can
act as a component of the
gateway at the north, quickly
orienting visitors to riverfront
open space. Additional open
space should be developed
as a public plaza between 7th
and 8th Avenues on the west
side of South Main Street.
DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
To grow the historic South
Main Street building and
development pattern, two-
to four-story mixed use infill
should be developed.
Buildings should be situated
at or near the sidewalk, with
no side yard setbacks, creating
a consistent street wall and
sense of enclosure to improve
the pedestrian experience.
Private parking for individual
buildings should be located
to the rear, accessed by side
streets and rear alley, and
screened from public right-
of-way by a low masonry
wall, decorative fencing, and
landscaping.
Main entrances should be
at the front of the building
facing the sidewalk.
Buildings situated on corner
lots should take advantage
of their prominent locations
with angled or rounded corner
entrances.
Modern industrial style
architecture should be
encouraged for new infill
development.
Inviting storefronts with
large windows and displays,
prominent entrances, and
attractive architectural detail
should be encouraged to
provide visual interest along
South Main Street
A complete program of
redevelopment should be
undertaken on the east side
of South Main Street between
7th Avenue and 11th Avenue.
Adaptive reuse of existing
buildings along the west side
of South Main Street should
be considered wherever
possible.
Buildings with historic and
architectural value should be
maintained and enhanced.
TRANSPORTATION
South Main Street should be
reconfigured to include a road
diet from 6th Avenue to South
Park Avenue.
As opportunities arise,
property should be acquired
to increase the right-of-way
to 80 feet for wider sidewalks,
on-street parking, and bike
lane improvements.
PLACEMAKING
Pedestrian orientation
should be improved with
streetscaping along South
Main Street.
A gateway feature at 9th
Avenue and South Main
Street should welcome those
entering the Sawdust District
from the west via 9th Avenue.
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Sawdust District Master Plan 31
RIVER NORTH
The River North Subarea has a long history of industrial uses, many of which are
still present today. Large parcels, substantial buildings, and railroad properties have
created a complex land ownership configuration in the area. The presence of rail
facilities has decreased as the Canadian National Railroad removed numerous
spurs; however, the primary rail facility will remain as an eastern boundary to the
subarea. To improve open space and provide a front yard for the subarea, railroad
visual and noise impact should be reduced through landscaped buffering.
The northern section of the subarea was historically river-oriented, with businesses
catering to lumber factories lining the banks of the Fox River. With the decline of
the lumber industry, the factory buildings were converted to other industrial uses,
such as tooling and vehicle manufacturing. As the subarea develops, the City should
commit to ongoing collaboration with existing businesses to relocate to Oshkosh
industrial parks or other appropriate areas of the City. Relocating the few remaining
industrial uses will allow for establishment of the preferred uses in the subarea.
The waterfront is a prominent feature for the River North subarea. The
vacated Pioneer Drive will play a critical role in embracing the confluence of
the Fox River and Lake Winnebago. Water-oriented redevelopment should
occur along the shore, and the proposed 9th Avenue extension will improve
connectivity in the absence of Pioneer Drive. As the area currently has no
housing, multistory developments would be ideal to create density and
capture the view of the waterfront. Multi-family housing would benefit
from waterfront orientation, proximity to South Main Street activity, and
abundant open space provided by the front yard of the Sawdust District.
KEY GOALS
Vacate the Pioneer Drive right-of-way. This would improve waterfront access for
the Sawdust District’s most prominent mainland corner, enhance open space, and
further the concept of a public front yard.
Extend and connect the Riverwalk to Pioneer Island. The vacated Pioneer Drive
right-of-way should be redeveloped as part of the Riverwalk, connecting to the
network of trails and bike routes in the District. The new Riverwalk should connect
River North to Pioneer Island via a reconstructed pedestrian bridge, which currently
sits unused.
De-industrialize and relocate conflicting land uses. The City should work closely
and collaboratively with existing industrial businesses to find locations where they
can flourish.
DESIRED LAND USE
Parks and Open Space
Public open space should be
developed as a distinguishing
front yard feature of the
River North Subarea. Pioneer
Drive should be vacated, and
the Riverwalk extended to
connect parks and open space
to the waterfront, encouraging
passive and active recreation
for visitors and residents.
Multi-Family
The subarea presents an
excellent opportunity for
new multi-family housing,
accommodating residents
in all stages of life. Multi-
family housing options
should be oriented toward
the waterfront. It should be
developed at a variety of price
points in rental and condo
configurations to serve young
professionals, seniors, and
the local workforce. Residents
will further benefit from easy
access to new development
along South Main Street.
Office
The parcel on the east side of
South Main Street between
7th and 8th Avenues should
be developed for a larger
office/business park use
with access to the South
Main Street corridor and the
Riverfront. This office use will
generate daytime activity and
support local businesses and
restaurants. Office campus
open space should be publicly
accessible.
Public Parking
Parking areas should be
considered carefully to
provide adequate space for
the area without creating
a surplus. In the long term,
River North presents the best
opportunity for a new parking
deck that supports the office
campus, multi-family housing,
and open space access.
Events on Pioneer Island may
also require use of public
parking areas, and a shared
parking approach should
be implemented to allow
maximum usage of the deck
24 hours a day.
DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
Buildings facing the
waterfront should be
developed between two to
four stories.
On the west side of the
subarea, depending on
development patterns, a
maximum height of seven
stories should be considered.
High density multi-family
residential that may contain a
mixed use component should
be encouraged in the subarea.
Development plans should
buffer and screen the
Canadian National Railroad
right-of-way to mitigate
negative impacts.
Public parking should be set
back from the waterfront. It
should be well-landscaped
and screened from the
right-of-way to encourage
pedestrian activity on 9th
Avenue.
Development along the
waterfront should provide
orientation and visual interest
toward the water, reinforcing
the Sawdust District as a
unique water-oriented, mixed
use destination.
TRANSPORTATION
Pioneer Drive should be
vacated east of South Main
Street to the railroad tracks
and redeveloped for the
Riverwalk.
East of South Main Street, 7th
and 8th Avenues should be
vacated to encourage campus
style development, provide
for a parking deck, and create
open space opportunities.
9th Avenue should be
extended east to connect
with Pioneer Drive, providing
a new east-west connection
for pedestrians, bicyclists, and
motorists.
The 9th Avenue connection
should be used for the
reconfiguration of the
Witzel/9th bus route, allowing
it to circulate the District in
a loop with a new stop at
Pioneer Island.
Safe and comfortable railroad
crossings for pedestrians and
motorists should be provided
on 9th Avenue.
The trail network should
connect new office and
residential developments to
the Riverwalk.
A trailhead should be
provided near the new
9th Avenue and Pioneer
Drive curve, acting as the
subarea’s hub for multimodal
connections.
PLACEMAKING
Pedestrian-oriented
streetscaping should reinforce
9th Avenue as an important
east-west multimodal route.
The railroad should be
mitigated with corridor
landscaping and landform
features, such as a berm.
The Riverwalk should be
cohesively integrated
as a component of the
transportation network as
well as a destination. To
improve cohesiveness, the
segment between South Main
Street and Pioneer Island
should be completed after
vacation of Pioneer Drive is
vacated.
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32 Sawdust District Master Plan
ARENA
The Arena Subarea occupies a formerly heavy industrial area known for
the prominent Buckstaff Company. The City of Oshkosh demolished the
vacant Buckstaff property in 2016 to prepare the area for revitalization
and redevelopment. In 2017, the Menominee Nation Arena was developed,
offering significant regional entertainment options. The 64,300 square
foot, 3,500 person capacity indoor arena serves as the home for the NBA
G League’s Wisconsin Herd, an affiliate team for the Milwaukee Bucks. The
development of the arena is a catalyst for the Plan. The arena generates
significant activity and brings people to the Sawdust District from throughout
Oshkosh and the surrounding area. As the Sawdust District develops, new
uses surrounding the arena should complement its activity and provide
options for be complementary services, entertainment, and dining.
KEY GOALS
Block 17, the former Buckstaff furniture site, should be redeveloped.
Entertainment uses should be encouraged to take advantage of the arena activity
generation.
The subarea should support a transition from residential uses to commercial
uses. New commercial development should complement the arena and contribute
to activity on South Main Street.
Adaptive reuse should be considered. The School Stationers building is a
handsome brick structure that can be repurposed on the south side of the
Sawdust District.
DESIRED LAND USES
Entertainment
Entertainment uses should
be increased in the Arena
Subarea. The large Block 17
site between South Park and
14th Avenues on the east
side of South Main Street is
an opportunity to develop
new entertainment-oriented
amenities. These should
build on arena activity and
contribute to the South Main
Street corridor.
Mixed Use
Mixed use buildings along
South Main Street between
11th and South Park Avenues
should continue the street
wall south from the Core
Subarea. Ground floor
commercial uses with
attractive commercial space
and upper floors for offices
and housing should be
encouraged. Mixed use should
provide transition between
the pedestrian-oriented Core
and the entertainment focus
of the Arena Subarea.
Office
Parcels between 14th and
15th Avenues on the west side
of South Main Street should
be prioritized for office uses
that generate daytime activity
and support local businesses
and restaurants. Office
uses are ideal for providing
transition between disparate
areas and for bringing people
into the Sawdust District.
Commercial
The block between 14th and
15th Avenues on the east side
of South Main Street contains
the School Stationers building,
which should be repurposed
for a commercial use that
serve the whole District.
Larger format regional stores
may be considered on this
site. Additional parcels on
the northwest side of 14th
Avenue and South Main
Street provide opportunity for
commercial uses transitioning
from corridor mixed use
to the north. Commercial
uses would further support
Arena activity and provide
shopping opportunities for
the whole neighborhood.
Regional commercial activity
is supported by easy south
access via US 45.
Parks and Open Space
Building upon the front
yard concept established
in the River North Subarea,
public open space should be
developed and maintained
between the arena and the
marina along the lakefront.
The open space will be
activated by the proposed
multi-use trail and the
Riverwalk and will provide
opportunities for public use
on game days and throughout
the year. Landscaping and
landform features should
contribute to the open space
by screening the existing rail
facilities.
DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
Building height should be
limited to one to three stories
to carry the built form of the
South Main Street corridor
throughout the District.
Block 17 redevelopment
should be carefully designed
to be cohesive with the street
wall on South Main Street
while providing new regional
entertainment attractions
to complement the arena.
Parking should be located to
the rear and should be well-
screened from public parks
and open space.
As redevelopment occurs, new
industrial uses should not
be considered for the Arena
Subarea.
Dedicated commercial and
office uses are appropriate in
the Arena Subarea, but these
may also incorporate mixed
use to support the overall
liveliness and character of the
Sawdust District.
Parking lots should be set
behind structures and
screened from South Main
Street. Landscaping should
and natural perimeter
screening should shield
surface lots from public open
space.
TRANSPORTATION
The pedestrian experience
should be enhanced with
new sidewalks along 14th
Avenue to Pioneer Drive.
14th Avenue should mirror
9th Avenue to the north,
providing connection to the
west neighborhoods and
encouraging multimodal
access to the waterfront.
As detailed in the
transportation section,
South Main Street should be
reconfigured with a road diet
from 6th Avenue to South
Park Avenue, incorporating
complete streets principles.
As opportunities arise,
property should be acquired
south of South Park Avenue
to increase the-right of-way
to 80 feet for wider sidewalks,
on-street parking, and bike
lane infrastructure.
The trail network, bikeways,
and sidewalks should connect
new office, commercial, and
entertainment developments
to the Riverwalk.
Safe and comfortable railroad
crossings for pedestrians and
motorists should be provided
on 14th Avenue.
PLACEMAKING
A significant gateway feature
should be developed at South
Main Street and South Park
Avenue to welcome those
entering the Sawdust District
from the west, and to identify
the entertainment focus of
the Arena Subarea.
The railroad should be
mitigated with corridor
landscaping and landform
features, such as a berm.
Mixed use patterns and
streetscaping should be used
to continue the pedestrian
oriented character of South
Main Street between 11th
Avenue and South Park
Avenue.
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Sawdust District Master Plan 33
PIONEER
The Pioneer Subarea borrows its name from the former Pioneer Inn Resort
and Marina established in the 1960s. The resort was constructed and began
operation on the island in 1965. In 2004, the resort owner partially demolished
the existing hotel with plans to rebuild, but it closed in 2005 after those plans
did not proceed. While the marina is still operational, the site once offered
multiple amenities for hospitality, events, and tourism. The property has been
considered a key anchor site for revitalizing the City’s south side for many years.
The Riverwalk is planned to encircle Pioneer Island and provide public access to a
plaza at the southeast point of the island. The Pioneer Subarea should return the
key island and marina areas to their former glory, capitalizing on hospitality, events,
and tourism while embracing the waterfront that makes the Sawdust District
special. while embracing the waterfront that makes the Sawdust District special.
KEY GOALS
Reestablish the Pioneer Subarea as a destination for tourism. Modernization
of the marina and a new hotel on Pioneer Island will provide support for tourist
activity and complement the arena and South Main Street.
Emphasize public space to support hotel, marina, and residential uses.
Construction of the Riverwalk and the public plaza at the southeast tip of Pioneer
Island will serve both visitors and Oshkosh residents.
Implement the Tax Increment District (TID). TID Number 38 is a proposed blighted
area district consisting of three parcels and approximately 20 acres comprising
Pioneer Island, the adjacent Pioneer Marina, and adjoining City and State-owned
lands. Implementation of the TID will enable the City to return the subarea to
active use.
DESIRED LAND USES
Entertainment
and Hospitality
Complementing the
entertainment use provided
by the Arena, Pioneer Island
should be developed for a
new hotel. The hotel should
further the District’s appeal
for tourism and provide a
springboard for development
and growth along South Main
Street.
Multi-Family
Multi-family condominiums
should be developed on
Pioneer Island. These will
complement the hotel
development and provide
unique lakefront housing that
increases year-round activity
on the waterfront.
Parks and Open Space
The Pioneer Island plaza
and gathering area will
serve visitors and Oshkosh
residents. The plaza’s location
is ideal as a desirable site
events such as weddings.
This should be maintained
as a public space that can be
rented from the City, as well as
accessed year-round via the
Riverwalk.
Marina
The marina should be
updated and maintained as
a key waterfront component
that contributes to the unique
character of the Sawdust
District. The marina use
should continue to provide
recreational opportunities for
boating and fishing on Lake
Winnebago, acting as the
waterfront gateway inviting
boaters into the Sawdust
District.
DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
The new hotel and waterfront
multi-family developments
should be two to four stories
in height, oriented around
open space that allows
viewsheds toward the lake.
Waterfront development
should provide orientation
and visual interest toward
the water to reinforce the
Sawdust District as a unique
water-oriented mixed-use
destination.
Green space and landscaping
should mitigate and buffer the
railroad tracks and enhance
the Riverwalk experience.
TRANSPORTATION
Bikeways should be installed
along Pioneer Drive.
Sidewalks should be installed
along Pioneer Drive to
connect with 14th Avenue,
encouraging boaters to pull
into temporary slips and enjoy
recreation and restaurants
along South Main Street.
Access should be improved
to Pioneer Island. Bike and
pedestrian access should be
available on all bridges, and
the pedestrian bridge at the
north side of the island should
be reconstructed.
A trailhead should be
provided near 14th Avenue
and the waterfront, acting
as a hub for multimodal
connections and inviting
boaters to explore the District
on foot.
PLACEMAKING
The plaza at the eastern tip
of Pioneer Island should be
constructed on land owned
by the State of Wisconsin.
The plaza should be open to
the public and constructed
with high quality materials
in an architectural style that
incorporates the waterfront.
Street trees and landscaping
along Pioneer Drive should
soften marina storage areas
and the railroad tracks.
The Riverwalk should be
completed around Pioneer
Island, creating a loop for
joggers, bicyclists, and
pedestrians.
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34 Sawdust District Master Plan
SOUTH GATEWAY
The South Gateway Subarea marks the southern extent of historic
industrial activity in the Sawdust District. The south side of the District
was originally anchored by Oshkosh Brewing and People’s Brewery. The
Oshkosh Brewing property is now occupied by School Stationers at
1641 South Main Street. Blended Waxes, a local manufacturer, was able
to incorporate the People‘s Brewery building into their existing facility.
Blended Waxes offers stability in the subarea with no relocation plans.
The South Gateway area displays development patterns of one story
buildings with street facing parking. This area will likely remain
auto oriented serving as a transition to US 45 to the south.
KEY GOAL
Support Blended Waxes potential expansion. Parcels should be consolidated
between 1600-1650 South Main Street to create a redevelopment site for the
business to grow.
DESIRED LAND USES
Single-Family Attached
Townhomes increase density
and act as a middle-scale
housing component between
single-family detached
neighborhoods and multi-
family developments.
Townhomes at the northwest
corner of 17th Avenue and
South Main Street should
provide transition for single-
family home neighborhoods
to the west and south of the
Sawdust District.
Multi-Family
Multi-family condominiums
and apartments should be
developed south of 16th
Avenue. These should be
available at a variety of price
points. Building orientation
should be toward South Main
Street to help define the
south gateway to the District.
Office
Parcels between 15th and
16th Avenues on the west
side of South Main Street
should be prioritized for office
or commercial uses that
generate daytime activity and
support local businesses and
restaurants. Office uses are
ideal for providing transition
between disparate areas and
for bringing people into the
Sawdust District.
Industrial
The Blended Wax industrial
use remains appropriate as
South Main Street transitions
to US 45. This use should
be maintained to provide
stable employment and draw
regional daytime activity to
the area.
DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
One to three story buildings
should continue the
South Main Street pattern
established in the Core and
Arena subareas.
Commercial and office uses
should be flexible. They
may include mixed use
components.
Parking areas should be
screened from South Main
Street and provided at the
rear of buildings.
Light industrial and
manufacturing uses should be
maintained on the east side
of South Main Street.
Industrial storage and loading
areas should be located at
the rear of the buildings,
accessible off 15th Street.
TRANSPORTATION
The trail network should
extend south parallel to the
railroad prior to joining the
16th Street right-of-way and
connecting to the South Main
Street bike route.
PLACEMAKING
A gateway should be
developed at 17th Avenue and
South Main Street to welcome
those entering the Sawdust
District from the south.
Multi-family developments
and the proposed trail should
be separated from the railroad
with landscaping and natural
screening.
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Sawdust District Master Plan 35