Hello City of Eau Claire employees, residents, and Council Members –

Here are some updates from around Eau Claire. Note that prior updates can be found here, and you can use these linked forms to send feedback to the City Manager’s Office or City Council.

City Manager Stephanie Hirsch

CITY UPDATES

Transit Transfer Center Opens Monday at 5:45AM: Our Transit Division shared the exciting news that the first bus will roll out of the new Transfer Center on Monday morning, September 29th! Please join me, City Council President Emily Berge, and other Transit enthusiasts for that first ride from the Transfer Center on Route 3 to the Northside, which will leave the station promptly at 5:45AM. This is an hour-long route, but you can get off at the first stop at the Library if you like. All Transit fares will be waived on Monday in celebration of this milestone. 

Also, please join me in thanking the many people who have gotten us to the finish line, including past and present Transit staff and Transit Commission Members, contractor Market and Johnson, neighboring businesses who had to survive years of construction, City custodial staff, Community Services Admin staff, our Streets and Fleet Division, City Council members, Rod Bonesteel, Ty Fadness, Cory Tietz, Tom Wagener, Community Development staff, City Attorneys, and more.

Below is more information from Transit on the evolution of the project:

"What began as a 'temporary' solution in 1985 has now, after 36 years of service, been replaced with a new, permanent home for Eau Claire Transit riders. The City of Eau Claire is proud to announce the opening of its new downtown Transfer Center.  

The new facility, made possible through a $5 million federal grant and City Tax Incremental Financing (TIF), offers riders a sheltered waiting area, restrooms, and staff offices. Parking and mixed-use housing is getting constructed above the Transfer Center

The opening of the Transfer Center comes during a special milestone year -- Eau Claire Transit’s 50th anniversary of serving the communities of Eau Claire and Altoona.

Transit Manager Katrina Running said: 'From its earliest days to today’s system, Eau Claire Transit has been connecting people to work, school, shopping, and opportunity for half a century. The new Transfer Center is a step towards a more walkable community, more connection with our neighbors, and a continued investment in our downtown.'

'As we celebrate 50 years of Transit service, we honor the thousands of riders who have taken the bus over the past few decades, and we recognize that, no matter your reason for riding, you deserve a welcoming space to wait for the bus,' Katrina said.

Opportunities for tours are forthcoming. Please follow Eau Claire Transit on Facebook for more updates. For more information about Eau Claire Transit services, visit ECBus.org"

Pictured below, one of our UWEC Transit routes picks up students downtown at around 7:30AM to take them to class and the main campus.

Pollinator Planting: We are also happy to share that all of our new pollinator spaces have been planted. Streets and Fleet Manager Aaron Nicholson shared this update:

“The pollinator planting was completed this week. The contractor used two ways to plant the seeds, depending on the topography of the pollinator spaces. Where there were slopes and hilly terrain, two smaller tractors were used. The first tractor broadcasted and spread the seed. The second tractor then worked the ground to ‘bury’ the seeds. On the bigger, more open areas that are mostly flat, they used a bigger tractor that does all of this in one process and essentially injects the seed into the ground.”

The contractor planted winter wheat, which helps stabilize the soil, and a mix of pollinator species. You can learn about what's been planted, including the seed type, when it blooms, and how it helps the ecosystem, on this page: Pollinator Seed Mix. For example, one seed type that's been planted is called “Symphyotrichum Novae-Angliae”, or “New England Aster”, and it will bloom August through October. It promotes the following butterfly species or host plants: Pearl Crescent, Silvery Checkerspot, Gorgone Checkerspot, N. Crescent. We expect to see the winter wheat begin to sprout yet this fall, and then to see different pollinator-friendly flowers bloom throughout the growing season next year.

Pictured below is a Pearl Crescent butterfly, an image of the planting underway, and one completed area.

Eddy Street Bridge Update: Residents have been regularly asking about when the Eddy Street Bridge may re-open, and the City has, in turn, been checking in with Union Pacific (UP), who owns the bridge. We received this update from Tom Evenson from Union Pacific: “As an update, our structures team is in the final preparation stage with contractors. We estimate the work to begin in mid-October and last an estimated four to five weeks (weather permitting and barring any other construction-related challenges). From there, the bridge will need to be re-rated in order for it to re-open to vehicular traffic. We are sensitive to the inconvenience caused to the neighborhood with this detour, and we appreciate the community's patience as we work to get the bridge back open. We will keep you posted on estimated completion dates as we move ahead.”

UP can be contacted by phone or email at Phone: 312-777-2037 and thomas.evenson@up.com. The bottom of the bridge is pictured below, with some areas pointed out that have been inspected.

Peer Support Conference: Our Fire Department shared this note that describes the work they undertake to support one another so that their team can, in turn, continue to support the community. “Recently, we had our annual Peer Support Conference, where members gathered to learn more about the resources available to them and to reaffirm the importance of ensuring no one faces the battles of trauma in silence. Trauma doesn’t only impact us as individuals -- it can ripple into our families and communities. That’s why it’s so vital that we continue to support one another, reach out, and remind our colleagues that they are never alone in this. A sincere thank you to Hakes Wellness Solutions for hosting and continuing to expand this important work across the state.” An image below shows some of the team, and it includes this quote: "The heaviest battles become lighter when carried together."

Bicyclist Death: The Police Department shared this sad news this week:

“On September 11th, Eau Claire Police Department officers and EMS responded to a car versus bicycle crash at the intersection of Cameron Street and 11th Street. The bicyclist, Raymond Moeller, 85 of Eau Claire, was transported to the hospital. Moeller has since died from his injuries.

The preliminary investigation shows the driver of the SUV was traveling eastbound on Cameron Street. Moeller was also traveling eastbound in the bike lane. As they approached 11th Street, Moeller turned left and was struck by the SUV. He was transported to the hospital and later died from his injuries. The crash remains under investigation. ECPD would like to extend our condolences to those affected by this incident.”

Police Recruiting: The Police Department seeks a few exceptional people to join their team. Candidates do not need to come from any one particular background. In fact, the PD values having officers with different experiences and areas of expertise. What all the staff have in common, though, is integrity, courage, problem solving, and compassion. The Eau Claire Police Department is one of the best Departments to work for in the country, with its laser focus on training, teamwork, and excellence. Over their career, ECPD Officers have a chance to advance through different roles within the PD (and the EC City government as a whole). Watch this video and consider who you may know who would want to serve: Join Eau Claire Police Department.

The text with the video reads: "When we’re young, we chase what we love -- protecting, leading, helping others, being part of a team. Some of us never stop. Those childhood passions don’t fade -- they grow stronger, and for some, they become a calling. At the Eau Claire Police Department, we’re looking for the ones who never lost that spark. If that’s you, it’s time. Join us and see where your passion can take you. Applications for Patrol Officers open OCTOBER 1. Benefits include: $68,057.26 to $84,483.83 annually, four-day work weeks, and advancement opportunities. Head to Joinecpd.org to learn more." Pictured below is an image from the video.

SHOUT-OUTS: We continue with some more shout-outs this week.

Thank You for Summer Event: A volunteer for the Bike Fed of Wisconsin Ride Across Wisconsin Ride shared their appreciation: “I just wanted to thank the City personnel that made this whole operation run so successfully. This turned out to be the largest Ride Across Wisconsin ride ever! Please thank the departments involved from the City streets division to the Police Department and any others. The cooperation of all was most appreciated.”

Thank You for Seymour Road: A constituent took a minute to send in this appreciation for our Streets Crews: “Just wanted to give compliments to those who worked on repairing Seymour Road recently. The road is incredibly smooth now and looks great! Thank you for the good work!”

Thank You to our Creative Library Staff: Our Library staff are always game to entertain and engage our residents. They shared this week that Brianna and Katie from Youth Services “found a great way to repurpose some leftover decorations from last summer's Pigeon Party. Inside the bus you'll find an assortment of Pigeon books!”

Thank You for Response to Tree Cleanup: A constituent, who delivers paper early in the morning, shared this note about a middle-of-the-night issue with a tree that had fallen due to high winds and blocked the road at South Michigan Street and Second Reserve. When she saw the tree, she went home to call the non-emergency number of the Eau Claire Police Department. The constituent shared: "Telecommunicator Melissa took down my information. Melissa said she would send an officer out as well as Forestry Department workers….By the time I headed out again for good at about 3:45AM, the City of Eau Claire had already come and removed the obstacle tree. All that was left was a small pile of sawdust. WOW! Great work City of Eau Claire team! THANK YOU SO MUCH!” Pictured below are the before and after photos of the cleanup.

Shout-Out to Hard-Working CMF Crews: Neighborhood Services staff member Brandon Lechleitner entered our Central Maintenance Facility (CMF) crews in a Seven Brew contest, in which customers were asked to submit examples of "hard working area businesses." Brandon submitted the lucky hardworking folks at CMF and won!

Congrats to Jake: City Forester Matt Staudenmaier shared a big accomplishment of one of his foresters. He said: “Jake Edge received his certificate of completion of the Arborist Apprenticeship program, and is therefore officially a Journeyman Arborist as conferred by the Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards. Jake has worked with the Forestry Department since he was in school at CVTC for his Horticulture/Landscape associate's degree. It has been great having him on the crew, and especially to be able to watch him grow and accomplish goals, both personal and for our department.” Jake is pictured below.

Thank you for Roundabouts: We don’t always get praise for round-a-bouts, but this summer we did! A constituent wrote: “I wanted to mention how many compliments I've heard about roundabouts and how great they look this summer!”

WAYS TO SERVE: Take a look at our open positions here: Job Openings | Sorted by Posting Date descending | JOB OPENINGS (governmentjobs.com) Here are a few roles that we hope to fill with great contributors.

Open Jobs

Administrative Associate II (Transit): Join the Transit Division of the Community Services Department as an Administrative Associate II and help support a greener, more connected community. This full-time position plays an important role in assisting our paratransit provider, performing varied reception and clerical duties, and creating and maintaining detailed records that support the activities and performance of the Transit Division. Apply today and be part of delivering essential services that make a real impact! Deadline to apply: September 28th at 11:59PM.

Utility Systems Technician I (Water Systems): We need you to help us meet our mission to provide an uninterrupted water supply to the residents of Eau Claire! Put your repair experience, knowledge of construction, and desire to be part of a small team to work as a Utility Systems Technician I (Water Systems). We are currently accepting applications for this position in our Community Services Department. Duties include: installing water services; installing water meters; maintaining and repairing valves, gauges, pumps, and other related equipment; disinfecting and pressure testing water mains; testing for water leaks in residences and commercial establishments; and more! This position includes public contact and manual labor. Deadline to apply: October 6th at 11:59PM

Project Coordinator Intern (Community Development): Are you a current undergraduate student? Do you have an interest in planning, architecture, GIS, urban studies, or a related field? Join us and grow your skills. We are currently accepting applications for a Project Coordinator Intern in the Planning Division of the Community Development Department. This position offers invaluable experience for your resume. Duties include: assisting with Planning Division projects including housing data analysis, GIS updates, and working on action items from the Housing Opportunities Commission, and more. Deadline to apply: October 6th at 11:59PM.

Parks, Forestry, and Cemeteries Manager: Ready to take on a leadership role that makes a lasting impact? The City is seeking a Parks, Forestry, and Cemetery Manager to guide the care, maintenance, and operations of some of our most valued community assets. This position is responsible for directing a wide range of programs and services, including the upkeep of parks and open spaces, the management of cemetery operations, and the development of urban forestry initiatives that ensure a healthy and sustainable tree canopy for the future. This role requires a leader who can balance planning with hands-on management, oversee staff and resources effectively, and provide the vision needed to maintain facilities and spaces that enhance the quality of life in our community. If you are looking for variety, responsibility, and the opportunity to shape how residents experience their city, we invite you to apply. Deadline to apply: Open until filled, with first review of applications on October 13th.

Recreation Part-Time Positions (Recreation): The City of Eau Claire Recreation Division is now hiring for part-time Recreation positions! For a full list of positions, visit our website. Deadline to apply: Applications will be accepted until positions are filled. Please apply early. Application review for some positions listed in the job description.

Additional Opportunity

Working Better Together Cohort 2: We have a few seats left for the next Working Better Together program, which is a three-month grant-funded professional development experience for City staff, governmental and institutional partners, and community members who want to create more welcoming workplaces and build lasting connections across the Eau Claire region. Participants will attend a series of interactive workshops, complete service projects with local nonprofits, and engage in a two-day immersion experience. Please apply here: Working Better Together - Strategies for Success | City of Eau Claire, Wisconsin

CLOSURES/DETOURS, OPENINGS, DEADLINES, ALERTS, & REMINDERS:

Card Crawl and Free Transit Rides Saturday: Reminder that Saturday is Card Crawl Day... "September is Library Card Sign-Up Month, and to show you how much we love our library cardholders, we’re hosting Card Crawl 2025! Bring in your card -- or get one -- on Saturday, September 27th (10AM to 2PM), and explore the building to unlock loads of library fun! You’ll find fun freebies all over the building, a big book sale, new library card designs, a Choose Your Flavor Adventure, cool craft activities, a grand prize drawing, and soooooo much more. You’ll even get FREE bus rides from Eau Claire Transit! You may even win one of two Baskets o' Bookish Delights, which are full of “book-themed, mugs, journals, socks, sunglasses, hats, notepads, soap, mints, and more!” The baskets are pictured below.

Green Waste Facility: Reminder that with the start of fall, rain and wind have started to help the leaves drop from the trees. The Green Waste Facility on Jeffers Road continues to be open Monday and Wednesday from 10AM to 6PM, and Saturday from 8AM to 3PM. For more information on what can be taken there and costs, please visit: EauClaireWI.gov/Brush. The facility is typically open until mid-November. A flier with the same information is pictured below.

Homecoming Parades: Here are a few times and places to check out if you'd like to support our area schools (or to avoid if you are trying to drive...)

• North High School Homecoming Parade: Friday, September 26th, 5 to 6PM, Piedmont (Mars to Comet), Frisbie (Mars to Comet), Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Commet (Piedmont to Frisbie), Neptune (South of Frisbie Lane),

• Memorial High School Homecoming Parade: Friday, October 3rd, 5 to 6PM, Keith Street, Hopkins Avenue to Lloyd Avenue

• UWEC Homecoming Parade: Saturday, October 4th, 10 to 11AM, Water (Second to Menomonie), Second (Chippewa to Water), Third (Chippewa to Water), Fourth (Chippewa to Riverside), Fifth, Sixth, Seventh, and Ninth (Chippewa to Menomonie)

Other Reminders:

• Temporary Drop Box Closures: Reminder that the Library’s eight off-site return boxes are temporarily closed due to a staffing shortage, and we anticipate them to open within a few weeks.

• Eddy Street Bridge: The bridge is open only to bicycles and pedestrian traffic.

• Recreation Fall/Winter Registration Open: Register for Recreation activities online now at: http://activenet.active.com/eauclaire/

Street Updates: Take a look at an updated Street Closure Report. You can also view the work underway via this interactive map: Active Map of Street Construction. 

Closures/Work Underway:

• Alley South of Clairemont (Patton Street to East Lexington Boulevard)

• Birch Street Phase 2 (Franklin to Center Street)

• South Dewey Street (Emery to Lake)

• East Polk Avenue (Nimitz Street to East Lexington Boulevard)

• Eddy Lane (Wellington Drive East to Venus Avenue)

• Emery Street (South Farwell to South Dewey)

• First Street (Platt Street to Third Street)

• May Street (East Polk to East Lexington)

• Mars Avenue (Eddy Lane to Virginia Lane)

• Otter Road (East Clairemont Ave Frontage Road North to Vernon Street)

• Pleasant Street (South Hastings Way to Vernon Street)

• Vernon Street (Otter Road to Pleasant Street)

• Vine Street (Third Street to First Street)

• West Tyler Avenue (Ellis Street to South Lexington Boulevard)

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT: We have the best employees! Get to know one of them this week. (And submit your suggestion for an employee to spotlight here…)

Today we spotlight ECPD Police Officer Spotlight Thomas Ramboldt. Our PD shared: "Officer Ramboldt has seven years of law enforcement experience. He's a part of ECPD's honor guard and drone team, and he's a police training officer to name a few. Thank you, Officer Ramboldt, for your dedication to our Department and the City of Eau Claire. We are grateful to have you on our team."

Here’s a bit more about Officer Ramboldt, based on excerpts from this video that features him, 

Your Background: “I’ve been here over four years, and I have over seven years of law enforcement experience.”

Best Part about Your Job: “One of the reasons I wanted to be a cop was to be able to go out and help people every day. Every day is a little bit different. One of the nice things about working patrol is that we get to experience a variety of different cases throughout the day. No two days are usually the same.”

What Roles have you Played: “One of the things I really like doing is traffic enforcement and traffic safety. I was a part of the City’s tactical team for a while. Right now, I am on our honor guard, part of the set team, a drone operator, and a police training officer.”

What Cases Stand Out: “One of the cases that really stood out to me was a couple of years ago. We got dispatched to check on a person who was in crisis and had been trying to harm themselves. I was able to talk to her and help come to a resolution where we could get her some help and make things better for whatever the crisis she was going through at the time. We haven’t had the same type of contact with this person, but they have been doing better. So, it’s nice to see you are actually helping them in the long run. It's a very noble career where you can go out and actually help make a difference in your community.”

COUNCIL CALENDAR (Tentative – Please see: City Calendar | City of Eau Claire, Wisconsin (eauclairewi.gov) for most complete and up-to-date list of public meetings)

• Monday, October 13th, Public Hearing, Council Chambers, 6PM

• Tuesday, October 14th, Council Meeting, Council Chambers, 4PM

• Monday, October 27th, Public Hearing, Council Chambers, 6PM

• Tuesday, October 28th, Council Meeting, Council Chambers, 4PM