A major Marshfield economic development project has received statewide recognition. The Wisconsin Economic Development Association has named the Weinbrenner Shoe Company retention project the winner of the 2026 Community and Economic Development Award in the Business Retention and Expansion category. The award recognizes projects in which a community successfully works to retain or expand an existing business that is important to the local economy. The project brought together the City of Marshfield, Weinbrenner Shoe Company, Ellis Construction, the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation and regional partners to support a $14.5 million investment in a new 70,000-square-foot facility at Mill Creek Business Park. The new facility retains approximately 120 local jobs and creates capacity for 35 additional positions, while also improving workflow, safety, technology and employee well-being. The project also strengthens Marshfield’s tax base and creates future redevelopment opportunities at Weinbrenner’s former downtown site. Weinbrenner has been part of Marshfield’s manufacturing community for nearly 90 years. City Administrator Steve Barg congratulated the company and noted its continued commitment to manufacturing high-quality footwear and providing employment in Marshfield. The award was presented September 17 during WEDA’s annual CEDA Awards ceremony in Kenosha.