Future of two historic La Crosse bars uncertain

The future of two historic downtown buildings in La Crosse is up in the air, as the city bargains with the owners of those buildings. 

The city’s heritage preservation commission has been told that talks are in progress with the owner of the Jehlen building on 3rd Street, which used to house the Club Tucan. 

The owner has been given a 6-month window to demolish the building which opened in 1886 as a meat market. 

City staffers also are working on preservation plans for the Casino Bar on Pearl Street. 

The Casino was shut down by a fire in February, reportedly set in a back alley late at night by homeless people.   

Tim Acklin of the city planner’s office says the owner of Club Tucan has been contacted about trying to avoid demolition of the structure.

Big Al’s Pizza next door has set up an outdoor seating area between that restaurant and the Club Tucan.