VARC Leadership and Governor Evers Attend Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony of Main Street Apartments
- sphillips974
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
In a novel partnership between VARC and the City of Viroqua, Main Street Apartments will soon host VARC's brand-new inclusive childcare center, Bumble & Bloom.
VIROQUA, WI.—In a compelling demonstration of community collaboration and support, Northpointe Development and the City of Viroqua hosted the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the newly constructed Main Street Apartments on August 5. Community leaders of all stripes showed up for this momentous occasion, even drawing the attention of Governor Tony Evers. VARC's own President & CEO, Elizabeth Filter, made remarks at the event, emphasizing the significance of this milestone for Viroqua's ongoing downtown revitalization efforts.
Main Street Apartments will not only house Viroqua families in its 65 residential apartments but will also include two retail spaces and VARC's brand-new 6,000-square-foot childcare center, Bumble & Bloom Early Learning Center. This pioneering initiative, borne from a partnership between the City of Viroqua and VARC, aims to address the pressing need for high-quality, inclusive childcare in the coulee region.
Bumble & Bloom will offer full-time care, Monday through Friday, for children aged 6 weeks to 6 years. With a focus on inclusivity and nurturing, the center is designed to support approximately 65 children in a play-based learning environment that prioritizes emotional well-being and school readiness.
Nate Torres, City Administrator of Viroqua, notes the significance of this endeavor: “This partnership represents a significant step toward supporting working families in our region. We’ve heard consistently that access to affordable, reliable childcare is a growing challenge—and we’re proud to be part of a solution that addresses that need head-on.”
As local demand for childcare options continues to rise, Bumble & Bloom will be VARC's second licensed childcare center, following the Preschool Childcare Center in La Crosse. With a team of experienced professionals, the center is committed to creating developmentally appropriate learning environments that cater to every stage of early growth.
“Childcare isn’t just a service—it’s part of the foundation that allows communities to thrive,” explains Megan Tully, Director of Strategy at VARC. “Through this collaboration, we’re investing in the well-being of families and creating a space where children can be confident, curious, and cared for from the very beginning.” The ripple effect of expanding access to high-quality care extends beyond the children; it empowers parents and caregivers to engage fully in their careers, reinforcing both family stability and local economic success.
“This project is built on partnership and shared vision,” emphasizes Liz Filter, President and CEO of VARC. “Our heartfelt thanks to the City of Viroqua for their collaboration in bringing this vision to life.”
Nurturing Futures and Preparing to Launch
As Bumble & Bloom prepares to open this winter, families and prospective team members can look forward to a nurturing environment that champions the growth and development of every child. As they navigate the licensing phase of their new childcare endeavor, Bumble & Bloom Childcare Center Director Nicole Goodwin anticipates that more information on enrollment, employment, and opening timelines will be available in the coming months.
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