The power of planning is igniting a surge of redevelopment activity in the central city, with 18 initiatives now underway to add quality housing, grow businesses and further improve neighborhoods.
Menomonee Valley
The Menomonee Valley typifies the Milwaukee "Renaissance." Yesterday's biggest eyesore is now one of Wisconsin's premiere locations for industry.
We launched Wisconsin's largest environmental clean-up and directed more than $75 million in public investment to transform the unused west end of the Valley into attractive land to grow a business.
We've upgraded the transportation network, connecting businesses to major state freeways and adding a new bus route. And we're following an award-winning master plan to ensure maximum space for businesses.
The results speak for themselves: Palermo's Pizza, Badger Railing, Caleffi and Proven Direct are just a few of the businesses expanding or opening new facilities in the Menomonee Valley. The extension of the Hank Aaron State trail has also brought increased recreational opportunities to this area.
And next year the new Harley Davidson Museum will open. This exciting new attraction is expected to draw 350,000 visitors a year and create hundreds of jobs. Estimates put the museum's annual economic impact for Milwaukee at $37 million.
Artist's Rendering of the Harley-Davidson Museum, Scheduled to Open in 2008
The Park East
We're making progress in the Park East Corridor, with developments that promise to strengthen and expand the link between downtown and nearby neighborhoods and create a vibrant city center. Projects like the Flatiron condominium project and Gorman Lofts – which are nearly finished – symbolize this commitment.
Construction continues on the new global headquarters of Manpower. The addition of a Fortune 100 Company in the Park East sends a strong message to the world – Milwaukee is a great place to do business.
And I'm proud the City is a partner on the Pabst Brewery redevelopment effort. This abandoned Milwaukee landmark will reclaim its past glory as the future home of a thriving mix use development. The Pabst project will beautifully complement other new developments, such as the Staybridge Hotel just a few blocks east.
Southside
In another example of our commitment to growing minority-owned businesses, we partnered with the highly successful El Rey Mexican Food Products Company. Milwaukee's $2.2 million loan helped build a new facility that will triple the size of the original grocery store on Cesar Chavez Drive. Tomorrow, I will be proud to cut the ribbon at the grand opening of this fantastic new facility that will create jobs and spur economic activity.
Recent redevelopment on Kinnickinnic Avenue has reenergized one of Milwaukee's most celebrated neighborhoods. The additions of bistros, boutiques, shops and businesses have made this vital corridor one of Bay View's most popular destinations.
And from brand new housing developments, including single family residences and multi-family homes, to the newest eateries and cultural attractions, the Fifth Ward and Walker's Point neighborhoods typify the Milwaukee Renaissance.
Riverwalk & the Fresh Coast
One of our greatest resources is our lakefront, and the rivers that flow into it. Responsible development of these incredible assets, what I like to refer to as our "Fresh Coast," will help spread the message that Milwaukee is a vibrant coastal city, attract more people who want to live here, and more businesses that wish to operate here.
Dramatic high-rise developments are emerging along the lakefront; our Riverwalk is a hub of restaurants, clubs and nightlife; and more and more people are moving into riverfront condominiums throughout the city.
Milwaukee's Fresh Coast
Together we can continue the Renaissance that makes our City a place of opportunity for all. Milwaukee is evolving from the "Machine Shop of the World" to a place where manufacturing, creative arts, finance, service, technology and great recreation all come together in a great City to live, work and play.
Sincerely,
Mayor