Old Macy’s demolition, new housing structure likely to be debated by La Crosse council Thursday at first meeting of new year

The future of the empty Macy’s store at Valley View Mall could be decided Thursday night by the La Crosse city council.

Last week, two city committees approved plans to tear down the Macy’s portion of the mall, and replace it with three “quick-serve” restaurants, a car wash and over 100 new parking spaces.

The restaurants being proposed for the site include Raising Cane’s — a chicken franchise which has not yet come to the La Crosse market.

The Macy’s space originally opened as a Dayton’s store in 1980, and was last used by Herbergers.

The council could also vote on a new housing-commercial project being proposed near downtown La Crosse, between State and Main Streets, close to the main public library.

The plan passed by the Judiciary and Administration committee last week would transfer much of the property on a block between Main and State streets to the Neighborhood Development District.

Council members meet at 6 p.m. in the council chambers on the first floor of La Crosse City Hall.