City of Waupun
March 20, 2026
PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP FUELS DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION IN WAUPUN
Waupun’s Hoya Hop House Takes Top Main Street Award at WEDC Event
WAUPUN — The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) recognized communities across the state for historic preservation and downtown revitalization during its 35th Annual Main Street Awards ceremony in Wausau.
Hoya Hop House Brewing in Waupun received top honors in the Connect Communities Award (Over 5,000 Population) category for the redevelopment of its property at 514 E. Main Street. The City of Waupun supported the project through partnerships and economic development efforts.
Hoya Hop House Brewing opened in January 2025 following a year-long renovation that transformed a vacant former law office into a family-owned brewpub and craft cocktail destination. The 5,400-square-foot building, originally constructed in 1930 as Schultz Auto Body, had lost much of its historic character. The project restored the building’s historic exterior and reimagined the interior as a welcoming community gathering space that contributes to downtown Waupun’s economic vitality.
“Since opening, Hoya Hop House Brewing has become a catalyst for downtown activity,” said Mayor Rohn Bishop. “The brewery has increased foot traffic, supported local businesses and suppliers, created jobs, and attracted visitors from across the region. It is a great asset to the Waupun.”
Owners Matt and Michelle Brown, Jarrett Mack, and Caitlin and Jesse Huizenga purchased the property in fall 2023. In partnership with the City of Waupun, Envision Greater Fond du Lac, and Horicon Bank, the owners secured a $199,000 Community Development Investment (CDI) Grant from WEDC to support the restoration. The project leveraged more than $1 million in total public-private investment in the city’s central business district.
“We chose to invest in Waupun because of its strong sense of community,” said co-owner Michelle Brown. “We wanted to create not just a brewery, but a space where people can connect, unwind, and feel at home.”
The City of Waupun has participated in the WEDC Connect Communities Program since 2016. In 2022, Stone & Suede was recognized with a WEDC Main Street Award for its building renovation at 417 E. Main Street, with support from the City.
City Administrator Kathy Schlieve noted that downtown revitalization has been a long-standing priority, dating back to the formation of a business improvement district in 1988.
“Since 2019, we’ve seen significant investment in the central business district driven by engaged business leaders committed to making downtown Waupun a vibrant destination,” Schlieve said. “This award reflects that momentum.”
Additional downtown investment is ongoing in 2026. Chic Tique Girls will renovate and relocate to 301 E. Main Street; Blue Heron Antiques and BH Home will update their storefront as the Main Street Makeover contest winner; alley improvements along the 300 and 400 blocks of East Main Street will enhance public space and accessibility; and local business leaders will complete a WEDC Main Street Cohort program as they pursue Main Street designation.
The Wisconsin Main Street and Connect Communities programs, administered by WEDC, support downtown development through training, technical assistance, and preservation-based economic strategies guided by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. For a complete list of 2025 Main Street Award winners, visit: https://wedc.eventsair.com/35th-annual-main-street-awards
About the City of Waupun: The City of Waupun is centrally located along the US 151 corridor within a one-hour drive of Madison, Milwaukee and the Fox Cities and is positioned to support economic growth with available industrial, residential and commercial properties for development. Information about Waupun’s Central Business District can be found by visiting discoverdowntownwaupun.com.
About Hoya Hope House Brewing: Established in 2024, Hoya Hop House Brewing’s diverse portfolio of craft beers—including sours, seltzers, lagers, pilsners, and IPAs—paired with locally sourced food offerings has positioned the business as a regional destination. The brewery launched the first annual 920 Vendor Fest highlighting local makers in 2025, developed specialty products inspired by Waupun’s proximity to Horicon Marsh with proceeds benefiting Marsh Haven, and regularly hosts events that bring residents and visitors together. More information can be found by visiting hoyahophousebrewing.com.
