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Some projects are about more than bricks and mortar. They're about family legacies, long-term vision, and the people who help bring big ideas to life.
Earlier this month, Appleton Harley-Davidson celebrated the grand opening of its new state-of-the-art facility in Grand Chute, marking an exciting new chapter for one of the Fox Valley's most recognizable businesses. BLC Community Bank was proud to play a role in helping make that vision a reality.
The story of Appleton Harley-Davidson is one rooted in family, perseverance, and a passion for serving the riding community. Terry Doughty began his journey with the dealership in 1974, became part owner in 1980, and eventually purchased the business outright in 1998. In 2017, ownership transitioned to his son, Josh Doughty, continuing a family legacy that has become deeply connected to the Harley-Davidson community throughout Northeast Wisconsin.
When the opportunity arose to create a new facility that would better serve customers and support future growth, Josh and his team set out to build something special.
BLC Community Bank Vice President of Commercial Lending Dennis Hietpas worked closely with Appleton Harley-Davidson throughout the process.
"Projects like this are one of the reasons community banking is so rewarding," said Hietpas. "It's not just about financing a building. It's about understanding a business owner's vision, building trust, and finding solutions that help move that vision forward. We were honored to be part of the journey."
Like many large projects, the road to completion required patience, collaboration, and creative problem-solving. Over the course of more than a year, the teams worked together to navigate the many moving pieces involved in bringing the project to the finish line.
Today, the completed facility stands as a reflection of that commitment and investment in the future. The new location features an expansive showroom, service center, riding academy, and a beautiful event space available for community gatherings and special events. More than a dealership, it has become a destination designed to bring people together.
We were honored to work alongside Josh Doughty, Operations Manager Shelley Draeger, Controller Jason Feagles, and the entire Appleton Harley-Davidson team throughout this journey. Their dedication and belief in the future of their business never wavered.
As a locally owned community bank serving the Fox Valley for more than 118 years, BLC Community Bank understands the importance of relationships, local decision-making, and investing in the communities we call home. Our mission has always been to help businesses grow, create opportunities, and strengthen the communities they serve.
Congratulations to Josh, Shelley, Jason, and the entire Appleton Harley-Davidson team on this exciting achievement. Their vision has created a destination that will serve riders, event guests, employees, and the broader community for years to come.
If you're a business owner exploring your next opportunity, we'd welcome the chance to learn about your goals. At BLC Community Bank, we're never too busy to help a local business grow, and we're never too busy for your referrals.
