Wausau's SquareUp committee is making a final push to reach its goal of one million dollars for enhancing the 400 block.

So far $950,000 is in the bank.

Being so close to its goal, the committee is closing its private capital campaign, but members are hoping the public will contribute for a bit longer.

"The city of Wausau is poised to issue bid packs for the project about the middle of the month so we'd like to ask people who'd like to contribute to do that by the end of August," said Phil Valitchka, a SquareUp volunteer.

Funds go toward building a permanent performance stage and more seating, a garden and water feature.

Construction will begin in September.

The downtown City Square has been a mecca for events for years.

From Chalkfest to America's Best Frisbee Dogs, the site has been put to use.

Once completed the City Square will be more beautiful and more functional, but supporters hope it will also send a message.

"We're going to have a showcase representation of the spirit of this community. Our positive, progressive attitude, our desire to be an attractive community, inviting others to our community, to express we enjoy having a good time in this community," Valitchka said.

But not everyone thinks the project is a good idea.

Valitchka says there continues to be folks who are not convinced renovating the 400 block is worth the dollar investment.

Though one million dollars will come from private donations, $200,000 will come from the city through in-kind services.