Wausau, WI – August 19, 2025 – Centergy, Inc. joined Governor Tony Evers, Domtar Paper Company, other elected officials and regional partners in Rothschild for the groundbreaking of the Rothschild Dam Modernization Project, a pivotal infrastructure improvement backed by $42 million in state funding, secured through the 2025-27 Biennial Budget, alongside private sector investment. This project ensures the continued safety, flood control, and economic stability of the region. 

A Milestone for the Region—and Centergy’s Advocacy Journey 

Earlier this year, Centergy helped spearheaded advocacy efforts as part of its 20th Annual Central Wisconsin Days in Madison. During the two-day event, nearly 60 business, education, and community leaders presented four priorities to state lawmakers, including modernization of the Rothschild Dam, underscoring its importance to local economic development and environmental sustainability.  Centergy’s focused efforts during Central Wisconsin Days—along with strategic collaboration with local stakeholders—helped elevate the dam modernization as a top regional issue in the state budget process. 

More about Central WI Days below:  

• Central Wisconsin Leaders Unite at State Capitol to Advocate for Regional Growth at 20th Annual Central Wisconsin Days 
• Centergy Announces 2025 Central Wisconsin Days Issue Papers 

Project Significance 

• Historic Infrastructure at Stake: The Rothschild Dam, commissioned in 1912, has served the community for over a century. Modernizing the 276-foot Timber Crib Spillway section addresses deteriorating conditions and ensures long-term public safety, environmental health, and flood resilience. 
• Shared Investment Strategy: The state’s $42 million aligns with Domtar’s one-third commitment, driving a total investment exceeding $84 million into the region’s infrastructure and economy. 
• Broader Economic Impact: Domtar’s Rothschild and Nekoosa mills—key regional employers—support more than 3,500 jobs and contribute approximately $1 billion annually to Wisconsin’s economy. The modernization secures operations that are integral to local livelihoods and infrastructure. 

Angel Laidlaw, President & CEO of Centergy, emphasized the project’s significance: 

“Infrastructure is the foundation of strong communities, vibrant economies, and resilient industries. The modernization of the Rothschild Dam is more than an infrastructure project—it is a commitment to protecting families, sustaining jobs, and ensuring the long-term vitality of the paper industry that has anchored Central Wisconsin for generations. This moment reflects what we can achieve when business leaders, elected officials, and community partners work together for the greater good. On behalf of Centergy, I want to sincerely thank Governor Evers, our legislators and senators, and Domtar for reinvesting in North Central Wisconsin. Their leadership and collaboration have made this milestone possible, and their commitment will continue to support the families and communities who call this region home.” 

Learn More

For additional details, you can read Domtar’s official press release on the Rothschild Dam Modernization Project.

Moving Forward 

Centergy is proud to have played a role in bringing the Rothschild Dam modernization to fruition. As construction begins, the organization remains committed to strengthening infrastructure, supporting major regional employers, and ensuring Central Wisconsin’s long-term prosperity and resilience. 

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Centergy, Inc. is a 501(c)4 nonprofit regional marketing and economic development organization. Centergy is committed to advancing prosperity and vibrancy in the five-county region of Central Wisconsin: Adams, Lincoln, Marathon, Portage, and Wood Counties.