The Sonnentag Complex brought something entirely new to Eau Claire—a place where athletics, wellness, learning, and community all came together under one roof.
Led by UW-Eau Claire in partnership with Mayo Clinic Health System and other key stakeholders, the project was one of the largest community developments in the city’s history. It combined economic development with education and health in a way that strengthened the university while creating new opportunities for residents, students, and visitors, and it allowed Eau Claire to serve as an emerging regional hub for sports tournaments, university programs, healthcare services, and public events.
Project Background
The Sonnentag Complex happened thanks to the incredible generosity of UW-Eau Claire alumni John and Carolyn Sonnentag, who contributed roughly $70 million in cash and land to the project.
This landmark donation—one of the largest of its kind in Wisconsin—turned a 2014 UW System vision into reality. It all started in August 2014, when the UW-Eau Claire Foundation announced a $10 million commitment from the Sonnentags and their family foundation. Then, on December 6, 2021, the Foundation accepted the monumental $70 million gift, covering the project’s full philanthropic funding goals. The remaining $45 million came through a mix of financial and in-kind contributions from UW–Eau Claire students, the Pablo Foundation, Xcel Energy, the City of Eau Claire, and other partners.
Construction broke ground in spring 2022 on the former sites of Student Transit, County Materials Corporation, and Fabick Cat on Menomonie Street near Carson Park. During this time, public-private partnerships came together to shape the programming, leading to the complex becoming the new home of:
- The Sonnentag Event Center
- The John & Carolyn Sonnentag Fieldhouse
- Blugold Athletics
- UW-Eau Claire’s Center for Health & Wellbeing
- Mayo Clinic Health System Diagnostic Imaging & Sports Medicine Center
CENTERS, a professional venue operations group, was tapped to manage the facility’s day-to-day operations and ensure programming met the needs of all stakeholders.
Project Timeline
- Vision Proposed: 2014
- Planning, Fundraising, & Community Engagement: 2015–2021
- $70 million Donation from John and Carolyn Sonnentag Received: 2021
- Design & Construction: 2022-2024
- Official Opening: 2024
Project Cost: $115 million
This includes land acquisition and site preparation, demolition of former industrial buildings, and environmental remediation of the site. It also includes construction of the 225,000 sq. ft. facility, interior buildout for athletic, medical, and wellness spaces, and installation of sports and fitness equipment. Additional costs went toward developing the outdoor plaza and riverfront landscaping, incorporating energy-efficient and sustainable design features, enhancing accessibility and universal design, and installing modern technology, audiovisual, and security systems.
Project Funding Sources
Funding for The Sonnentag Complex came from multiple private and public, including student and community fundraising.
- John & Carolyn Sonnentag Donation: $70 million
- UW-Eau Claire Student Fees & Fundraising: $5 million
- Pablo Foundation: $10 million
- Xcel Energy: $5 million
- City of Eau Claire: $7 million
- Other Partners & Grants: $3 million
Project Goals
Back in 2014, UW-Eau Claire envisioned The Sonnentag as a transformative space that would elevate the university and strengthen the broader community. That vision expanded over time to include several key goals:
1. Improve Facilities
The Sonnentag would bring high-quality athletic and recreation spaces to campus, improving the student experience and helping the university attract new students.
2. Promote Health & Wellness
By offering access to fitness facilities and wellness programs, the complex would support healthier lifestyles for both students and community members.
3. Increase Economic Impact
The new venue would spur economic activity by drawing in visitors for sports and cultural events, creating jobs, and boosting sales for nearby businesses.
4. Bolster Community Connection
The Sonnentag would serve as a gathering place for residents and students alike, helping to strengthen ties between the university and the wider community.
5. Foster Collaboration
The shared space would make it easier for local organizations, businesses, and university departments to partner on events, programs, and regional initiatives.
Project Features
The Sonnentag Complex boasts a wide range of state-of-the-art features designed to serve the community’s needs for recreation, education, events, and wellness.
Multi-Purpose Event Spaces
One of the standout features of The Sonnentag Complex is its versatile event spaces. The facility offers several rooms that can accommodate events of all sizes, from corporate retreats to community gatherings. It also offers modern audiovisual equipment and customizable layouts, providing everything event organizers need for a successful gathering.
Cutting-Edge Fitness Center
Health and wellness enthusiasts will appreciate the fully equipped fitness center that boasts the latest in exercise technology. Featuring cardio machines, weight training equipment, and a dedicated space for group classes, the fitness center encourages an active lifestyle. Personal trainers are also available for those looking for guidance on their fitness journey.
Indoor Sports Facilities
Sports lovers can take advantage of indoor facilities that cater to a variety of activities. The complex features basketball and volleyball courts, batting cages, and a 120-yard artificially turfed field. This makes The Sonnentag Complex a year-round destination for athletes and families looking to stay active, regardless of the weather outside.
Community Gathering Spaces
The complex is designed with community engagement in mind. Several open areas and lounges encourage social interaction and collaboration among visitors where they can enjoy casual meetups, community meetings, or simply unwinding after a long day. The outdoor plaza along the river trail, complete with seating and landscaping, offers a beautiful spot for events or relaxation too.
Educational Programs & Workshops
The Sonnentag Complex is not just about recreation; it’s also a hub for learning. Various programs and workshops are planned throughout the year, covering a wide range of topics. These initiatives aim to foster personal growth and provide opportunities for visitors to connect and learn from one another.
Sustainable & Accessible Design
In keeping with modern sustainability practices, The Sonnentag Complex incorporates eco-friendly features, such as energy-efficient lighting, water-saving fixtures, and sustainable materials. This commitment to the environment reflects the values of the Eau Claire community and promotes a healthier planet for future generations. Inclusivity is at the forefront of The Sonnentag Complex’s design as well. The facility is fully accessible, ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can enjoy its offerings.
Economic Impact of the Project
The Sonnentag Complex has had a measurable impact on Eau Claire’s economy and community life.
Highlights
- Created Jobs Across Multiple Sectors: The development brought in new employment opportunities in areas like hospitality, entertainment, and facility operations.
- Boosted Regional Tourism: With sports tournaments, concerts, and community events on the calendar, the complex attracted visitors from across the Midwest and beyond.
- Increased Foot Traffic for Local Businesses: Shops, cafes, and restaurants near the venue saw a steady rise in customers thanks to event attendees.
- Spurred Infrastructure Improvements: To support the increased activity, the City invested in upgraded roads and transit, which further benefited nearby neighborhoods and businesses.
- Raised Property Values: Homes and commercial spaces near The Sonnentag became more desirable, leading to increased values and higher local tax revenue.
- Drew Major Events to Eau Claire: The facility opened doors to host large-scale competitions, trade shows, and performances—bringing in revenue and elevating Eau Claire’s regional profile.
- Enhanced the City’s Cultural Scene: By supporting arts programming and accessible community events, The Sonnentag became a new anchor for Eau Claire’s creative spirit.
- Encouraged New Investment: The success of the complex inspired developers to explore new commercial and residential opportunities nearby.
The Sonnentag Complex has already become a point of pride for Eau Claire. With its blend of sports, wellness, culture, and community programming, it’s bringing people together and has raised the bar for what a shared public space can offer. Whether you were there to catch a game, attend a workshop, or just enjoy a walk along the river trail, the facility offers something for everyone. And in doing so, it’s adding a powerful new investment to Eau Claire’s story of growth and collaboration.
About The Author
Kendall Williams
Marketing & Communications Specialist
Kendall implements the City of Eau Claire Economic Development Division’s marketing strategies, coordinates business assistance, and supports data-driven planning and analysis.
