For the older members of River Falls, when you mention the Depot, you harken back to the early days when the railroad ran through town and the depot was the place to catch a ride from either Hudson or Ellsworth.

Fast forward to today and the site of old depot has been transformed into a beautiful 50 unit senior residence that was just completed and is now accepting tenants.

The project began in 2016 when Paul Gerrard of Gerrard Corporation approached the City of River Falls to bid on a new senior residence in the space where the old railroad depot once stood. Gerrard, whose development company is well known to the city due to the success of a previous local development project known as university falls apartments.

Due in large part to the track record of success of the University Falls project, Gerrard was approved and selected to develop the site contiguous to City Hall. The city created a new TIF district to assist in the development of this project, that TIF assistance also included public infrastructure, enhancement of the walking trail and citypark contiguous to this development.

The Depot is a new income- restricted, 55+ living community with 50 one and two bedroom residences in a variety of styles, including options for different apartment layouts.

The project was delayed for 3 months with all the necessary approvals but did finally get started. The development was also built when COVID 19 hit severely, the construction stayed on schedule with careful planning and precautions to avoid any COVID 19 outbreaks. This was done by making sure that the people working followed strict safety guidelines according to Paul Gerrard, the co-owner of Gerrard Corporation.

Paul Gerrard said, “Our team that we have assembled has been working together for 20 years. Combine this with the wonderful cooperation with the city of River Falls truly made the project go like clockwork.”

Since the project was going to be a scenic overview of downtown River Falls, Gerrard insisted on enhanced outside appearance with a variety of colors and materials, larger windows provide a sense of historic presence in the building, additionally it was important to be sure that this development include materials native to the area, the split face block on the lower portions simulate old world foundations in the area. Paul commented, “The residents are people 55+ who plan to stay at home a lot, so I felt the units should have larger windows.” “Besides,” said Paul, “the windows overlook the beautiful River Falls skyline and the scenic Kinnickinnic River.”

Gerrard, who is passionate about this new addition to River Falls said each unit has its own Wi-Fi hookups and provided television cable, plus Wi-Fi in the common and workout rooms, additional amenities also include owner paid domestic hot water, sewer, and garbage. .

One unique feature of the Depot is each unit has in floor hot water heating in the concrete which eliminates drafty corners. The building also includes a rooftop terrace for socialization and panoramic views of the city. The building also features a provided full sized washer and dryer and secure remote heated parking garage.

For more information [email protected]_or to call 715- 781- 3183 to arrange a personal showing.