De Pere debates old bridge site options

DE PERE - The land where De Pere's Claude Allouez Bridge used to be could soon have a new owner.

The Department of Transportation is looking to sell the site at the west end of George Street on the city's east side.

To some De Pere residents, the site could be the most valuable piece of property in the city's downtown.

“We have a golden opportunity here,” said Jerry Turba of J&J Enterprises. “We could do something really big for the city.”

Since the old Claude Allouez Bridge was demolished in 2008, debate has swirled what to do with the site. It's currently a parking lot with some green space. The Department of Transportation's desire to sell the land, is now forcing the city to weigh its options.

“It's really kind of putting us in a position where we need to move forward and try to facilitate more discussions on the site and try to make a decision of what to do with the site,” said Ken Pabich, the director of planning and economic development for the city.

Working with the DOT, the city has decided its options are to either maintain the site for transportation related use, purchase it at the appraised price of $79,000 or allow it to be sold or opened to a bidding process.

If the city were to buy the property at the appraised price it could only use the land for a public purpose.

Earlier this month, the council voted to recommend the DOT sell the land or open it up to a bidding process.

On Tuesday night, residents voiced their disagreement with the council’s decision, telling the council they want to be a part of the process.

“This is the job you’re elected to do is to listen to the people who put you in office and act accordingly,” said Joe Seroogy, the owner of Seroogy’s.

Council members say a DOT issued deadline played a role in their earlier vote. However, they agreed the public should be a part of the process and voted to table their decision indefinitely.

City officials are expected to meet with the DOT before the council takes anymore action.