North Barstow District

Downtown Riverfront Redevelopment in Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Located where downtown Eau Claire meets the Chippewa and Eau Claire rivers, the North Barstow District has been shaped by decades of public and private reinvestment. Riverfront open space, trails, housing, businesses, and new development have transformed former industrial and underutilized properties into an active extension of downtown while preserving connections to the area’s history. Today, the district continues to offer opportunities to build on that momentum and strengthen the walkable, mixed-use environment surrounding Eau Claire’s downtown riverfront.

The District At a Glance

Location

At the northern edge of downtown, where the Chippewa and Eau Claire rivers meet

Redevelopment Stage

An established redevelopment district shaped by decades of public and private investment

Character

A downtown riverfront district combining housing, businesses, public spaces, trails, and mixed-use development

Planning Framework

Amended 2002

The Vision

The North Barstow District was envisioned as an extension of downtown that reconnects underutilized land with the Chippewa and Eau Claire rivers. The redevelopment plan pairs new investment with riverfront open space, public access, stronger connections, and opportunities for development that contribute to the continued growth and vitality of downtown Eau Claire.

Open Up the Riverfront
Create quality public spaces along the Chippewa and Eau Claire rivers while expanding opportunities for trails, river access, gathering, and recreation.

Strengthen Downtown
Use redevelopment to support a stronger and more diverse downtown economy, bringing additional activity, investment, housing, and commercial uses to the district.

Create Opportunities for Reinvestment
Bring properties together where appropriate to create sites capable of supporting meaningful new development and long-term private investment.

Connect the District
Use trails, public spaces, streets, and pedestrian connections to better link development with the riverfront, downtown, and destinations throughout the surrounding area.

Explore the District

Available Sites

The Liner Site

Status: Available

The Liner Site is positioned along North Barstow Street, steps from downtown shops, restaurants, and entertainment. With strong visibility and walkable access to Phoenix Park and the Chippewa River trail system, the site is well-suited for a mixed-use project that strengthens the connection between downtown living and the riverfront.

  • Flat 0.3-Acre Lot
  • Utility Connections On Site
  • New Street and Sidewalk Improvements
  • Adjacent to Children’s Museum of Eau Claire and a 4-Story Parking Deck


This site is ideal for a mixed-use commercial and residential development that adds energy to Eau Claire’s downtown core.

Completed Projects

Discuss an Opportunity

Share your ideas for available sites with the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division to explore how we can help bring your vision to life.