It is not secret that wood and window companies are a big player in Merrill.
From Hurd to Semco to Lincoln Windows, each employs close to 500 people.
"Our heaviest influence is manufacturing," said Jerry Olson from the Lincoln County Economic Development Corporation.
And while the window industry is a strong force in Merrill, other businesses are also thriving. Including health care, printing and Church Mutual Insurance.
"That's probably the other very, very vital part of our community is Church Mutual," Olson said.
The two retail business districts also continue to bring in the customers. The west side will soon be undergoing a major road construction project. And new businesses are joining solid veterans downtown.
"I'm pleased with what's going on in Merrill and I think everyone you talk to will say they're at least satisfied and have an optimistic outlook as to how we're going to prevail during the downturn," said Merrill Mayor Douglas Williams.
