I love the new train station. I would like to have posted pictures of the inside but I got kicked out before I could get a shot off. It's crazy how people are threatened by big cameras.

http://img152.imageshack.us/img152/7743/img89842fs0.jpg

What a great looking building. How many people use this building in some form on a daily basis? Seems pretty popular with all those taxis lined up.

I hope Milwaukee can build a few new tall high-rises in the cbd area. :) :yes: Another 600+ footer, one 700+ footer and one 1,000+ footer! ;) :yes: :)

While were hoping, I hope I win the lottery.

^^ Me too! :D

http://www.continuumarchitects.com/assets/client_images/portfolio/Ogden%20River.jpg

I'm was browsing the Continuum Architects website and ran across this design. Does anyone know if its related to the previously announced project on the river, or if it's different?

Link: Continuum Architects (http://www.continuumarchitects.com/htmdocs/portfolio/portfolio_item.php?id=87)

I'm was browsing the Continuum Architects website and ran across this design. Does anyone know if its related to the previously announced project on the river, or if it's different?

Link: Continuum Architects (http://www.continuumarchitects.com/htmdocs/portfolio/portfolio_item.php?id=87)

That is a design for a different proposal (Ogden Tower, or Water Street Tower, depending on where you look), from a different developer (New Land Enterprises), on a different site along the river (near Water and Brady Streets).

New, larger renderings are now available on Mandel's (http://www.mandelgroup.com/condominiums/condo_detail.cfm?c_id=8) website for the North End project, they're worth checking out.

That is a design for a different proposal (Ogden Tower, or Water Street Tower, depending on where you look), from a different developer (New Land Enterprises), on a different site along the river (near Water and Brady Streets).

Do you know anything on the status?

Edison Green was approved today. Good news.

'Eco-friendly' condo project endorsed
Plans to sell a city-owned lot for development of an "eco-friendly" condominium building in downtown Milwaukee won approval today from the Common Council's Zoning, Neighborhoods and Development Committee.

The committee supports granting a purchase option for the 19,985-square-foot lot, at 1027 N. Edison St. An investors group formed by business operator Russell Davis would buy the lot for $540,000, and develop an eight-story building overlooking the Milwaukee River, just south of the Highland Ave. foot bridge.

The $10.6 million development, known as Edison Green, would feature a restaurant, banquet hall, offices and 25 residential condos. It would feature sustainable building concepts.

It's River Splash and I have some friends from out of town with me.

It's 3pm on a Tuesday and I have found myself piss drunk -- again. I briefly contemplate curling up on a picnic table in Pere Marquette Park to pass out, but the cops who patrol the area might wake me up to tell me to "move along," as happened last week. So I head north along 3rd Street, thinking I'll cross the river on the Highland Street footbridge to curl up nice and snug against the side of the flower warehouse. Whatever I do, I am going to pass out soon so I'd better find a good place to do it. I get to the Highland footbridge and I'm stunned to see that my favorite snoozing spot is no more. It is now taken up with this eight story building buzzing with people.

Normally I would just keep moving to find a place to lay down and pass out. But there's something about this place that lures me in. Maybe it's the all of the hip young people in boats pulling up to dock. Maybe it's the friendly patio. Whatever it is, there's a vibe that I can't deny. I must enter this place.

Before long I've found myself on a boat going down the Milwaukee River, full of beautiful women who are fawning all over me. Thank goodness for Edison Green!

It's 3pm on a Tuesday and I have found myself piss drunk -- again. I briefly contemplate curling up on a picnic table in Pere Marquette Park to pass out, but the cops who patrol the area might wake me up to tell me to "move along," as happened last week. So I head north along 3rd Street, thinking I'll cross the river on the Highland Street footbridge to curl up nice and snug against the side of the flower warehouse. Whatever I do, I am going to pass out soon so I'd better find a good place to do it. I get to the Highland footbridge and I'm stunned to see that my favorite snoozing spot is no more. It is now taken up with this eight story building buzzing with people.

Normally I would just keep moving to find a place to lay down and pass out. But there's something about this place that lures me in. Maybe it's the all of the hip young people in boats pulling up to dock. Maybe it's the friendly patio. Whatever it is, there's a vibe that I can't deny. I must enter this place.

Before long I've found myself on a boat going down the Milwaukee River, full of beautiful women who are fawning all over me. Thank goodness for Edison Green!





LSD a hellava drug^^

Hook me up.

It's 3pm on a Tuesday and I have found myself piss drunk -- again. I briefly contemplate curling up on a picnic table in Pere Marquette Park to pass out, but the cops who patrol the area might wake me up to tell me to "move along," as happened last week. So I head north along 3rd Street, thinking I'll cross the river on the Highland Street footbridge to curl up nice and snug against the side of the flower warehouse. Whatever I do, I am going to pass out soon so I'd better find a good place to do it. I get to the Highland footbridge and I'm stunned to see that my favorite snoozing spot is no more. It is now taken up with this eight story building buzzing with people.

Normally I would just keep moving to find a place to lay down and pass out. But there's something about this place that lures me in. Maybe it's the all of the hip young people in boats pulling up to dock. Maybe it's the friendly patio. Whatever it is, there's a vibe that I can't deny. I must enter this place.

Before long I've found myself on a boat going down the Milwaukee River, full of beautiful women who are fawning all over me. Thank goodness for Edison Green!

See what a big difference that building makes!! haha

Is anyone familar with the Bradley Center project talked about in the current Biz Journal (http://milwaukee.bizjournals.com/milwaukee/stories/2007/12/03/story1.html)?

Is anyone familar with the Bradley Center project talked about in the current Biz Journal (http://milwaukee.bizjournals.com/milwaukee/stories/2007/12/03/story1.html)?

For several years the people who run the Bradley Center have kicked around the idea to develop the underutilized land they own surrounding the BC as a way of generating additional income. But up until now, that's all it's been, kicking around ideas and talking about doing it. Now, they've actually hired someone, the Lauth Property Group, to come up with some actual proposals.

So there is no Bradley Center development project...yet.

World Trade Center Wisconsin seeking spot in Milwaukee
Sean Ryan, sean.ryan@dailyreporter.com
Posted December 10, 2007

World Trade Center Wisconsin is talking with developers and city officials about constructing in downtown Milwaukee a building as tall as 30 stories, with offices geared toward international business.



this comes from the daily reporter, does anyone have the full article or know more about this????

World Trade Center Wisconsin seeking spot in Milwaukee
Sean Ryan, sean.ryan@dailyreporter.com
Posted December 10, 2007

World Trade Center Wisconsin is talking with developers and city officials about constructing in downtown Milwaukee a building as tall as 30 stories, with offices geared toward international business.

this comes from the daily reporter, does anyone have the full article or know more about this????

Try this: World Trade Center Wisconsin seeking spot in Milwaukee (http://www.dailyreporter.com/editorial/index.cfm?fuseaction=print&recid=20047311)


By the way, you can subscribe to the Daily Reporter online content for free (http://www.dailyreporter.com/subscribe/index.cfm?fuseaction=sub_editorial&subType=112) without having to be a subscriber of the print version.

Has there ever been a Milwaukee meet? Maybe we should do that.

Has there ever been a Milwaukee meet? Maybe we should do that.
There's been several of them, from just a few of us to about a dozen, although that dozen was from the members of Skyscraperpage.com but half the members were active in this forum also.

I'm always game to do something like that, being from Wausau though I can't always make it.

I'm game. It would be great to finally meet some of you.

Try this: World Trade Center Wisconsin seeking spot in Milwaukee (http://www.dailyreporter.com/editorial/index.cfm?fuseaction=print&recid=20047311)


By the way, you can subscribe to the Daily Reporter online content for free (http://www.dailyreporter.com/subscribe/index.cfm?fuseaction=sub_editorial&subType=112) without having to be a subscriber of the print version.
Wow, while reading that article I was aghast, they said there was no World Trade Center building in Chicago! I thought all the major cities in the nation had one.

What is going up at the county medical complex? It looks like a pretty large complex and building addition.

What is going up at the county medical complex? It looks like a pretty large complex and building addition.

I believe what you are talking about is the expansion of Children's Hospital and Froedtert. Currently Children's is building a new 12 story tower to expand their bed capacity and reorganize the hospital units. Froedtert is also expanding vertically, though I don't believe it will be as big as the Children's expansion.

Wow, while reading that article I was aghast, they said there was no World Trade Center building in Chicago! I thought all the major cities in the nation had one.

Chicago's WTC is in the Merchandise Mart. I've been there.

I think he was saying they don't have a WTC building. We have a WTC office already in Milwaukee but don't have a WTC building.

Just saying.

Has there ever been a Milwaukee meet? Maybe we should do that.

I'm down for that too.

I believe what you are talking about is the expansion of Children's Hospital and Froedtert. Currently Children's is building a new 12 story tower to expand their bed capacity and reorganize the hospital units. Froedtert is also expanding vertically, though I don't believe it will be as big as the Children's expansion.

Thanks, it does look like a very impressive project.:cheers:

I was randomly watching HGTV and saw they did a episode on some lady who owned a condo in a old tannery north of downtown near the MKE river. I can't remember what the show was called, but her condo ended up appreciating 15000 dollars since the time she spent it (the final cost was 425k). Anyways, they presented milwaukee in a good way ! :cheers:

There was also a house on a HD channel on the river right on the east side that was being built with Hay. Packed so tight that it was actually stronger than a brick house and more fireproof, which sounds crazy but its true. Nice house just down the road towards the lake and the lady did an exceptional job renovating it.

I believe this is the "green" house NorthernIL Mike was talking about.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2307/1500108705_4a653a4c3d.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davereid/1500108705/)

That's part of the Kane Commons (http://www.kanecommons.com) development, which is being developed by Julilly Kohler. In addition to using straw bale construction, she's incorporating a whole bunch of other green design elements into the project.

I wish I could see a show about that development!

Broker thinks new office tower could rise downtown

biztimes.com

Growing downtown Milwaukee office tenants in need of more space could provide an anchor tenant that kick-starts construction of a new office tower.

That’s the assessment of Ned Purtell, principal of Milwaukee-based RFP Commercial Inc., who was one of several speakers at the recent Year in Review Symposium hosted by the Wisconsin chapter of the Appraisal Institute.

Several proposed office building developments for downtown Milwaukee have been stuck on the drawing board in recent years because they have been unable to land an anchor tenant. But growing downtown firms in need of more space could soon provide an anchor tenant for a new building, Purtell said.

“Next year, I think there will be new construction downtown,” said Purtell, who spoke about the Milwaukee area office market at the symposium. “There are a couple of law firms that need more space. Artisan Partners is growing like a weed, and their building is full. I think somebody is going to build.”

Purtell declined to name the two law firms he was referring to. But one of them could be Godfrey & Kahn S.C., which in 2005 considered moving to a new building but instead decided to stay put in the M&I Bank building at 780 N. Water St. However, at the time, managing partner Rick Bliss said the firm would eventually have to move. Bliss could not be reached for this story.

Artisan Partners LLC is one of the fastest-growing mutual funds firms in the nation and occupies space in the 875 E. Wisconsin Ave. building in downtown Milwaukee.

The downtown Milwaukee office market, “Isn’t as bad as it looks,” Purtell said.

The vacancy rate for multi-tenant class A and B office buildings in downtown Milwaukee was at 17.69 percent at the end of the third quarter, down a tad from the 18.09 percent vacancy rate of the previous year, Purtell said.

The downtown Milwaukee office market is improving as some downtown firms are growing and are expanding their office space, including the Hall, Render, Killian, Heath & Lyman P.C. law firm; Stark Investments; Associated Bank and Grant Thornton LLP. In addition, Infinity HealthCare plans to move next year from Mequon to downtown Milwaukee and will occupy 62,000 square feet of space in the Chase Tower at 111 E. Wisconsin Ave.

In the suburbs, some office space sub-markets are healthy, but others are struggling, according to Purtell.



rest of the article
http://www.biztimes.com/news/2007/12/7/cre-spotlight-broker-thinks-new-office-tower-could-rise-downtown

If that was seperate from the World Trade Center we could have 2 nice improvements in our downtown! Speaking of improvements any news on the amazing and fantastic new Grand Ave tenant?

If that was seperate from the World Trade Center we could have 2 nice improvements in our downtown! Speaking of improvements any news on the amazing and fantastic new Grand Ave tenant?

Hate to throw water on your nice thought, but I sure can't see two major office developments at the same time. Perhaps they could work together and produce a 40-something project...say, like (duh!!) the Lake Pointe Tower proposal?

I think a World Trade Center office would work well in the LPT building, especially given its outstanding, Chamber of Commerce view. Add some other larger tenants, like a growing law firm and investment company, some hotel rooms and some condos...and you have a dynamic, new signature tower -- say 40-45 stories -- that would help really shape the skyline dramatically.

Sounds easy, doesn't it? (Yeah, right.)

Hate to throw water on your nice thought, but I sure can't see two major office developments at the same time. Perhaps they could work together and produce a 40-something project...say, like (duh!!) the Lake Pointe Tower proposal?

I think a World Trade Center office would work well in the LPT building, especially given its outstanding, Chamber of Commerce view. Add some other larger tenants, like a growing law firm and investment company, some hotel rooms and some condos...and you have a dynamic, new signature tower -- say 40-45 stories -- that would help really shape the skyline dramatically.

Sounds easy, doesn't it? (Yeah, right.)

Only problem with the LPT is the fact that it's the same height as the US Bank Tower, has a completely different look, and it's right across the street from the US Bank Tower.

The skyline will look great from the lake, but not from the freeways.

Cramer-Krasselt plans to relocate from traditional downtown space to artistic loft in city's Third Ward

http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=695848

Only problem with the LPT is the fact that it's the same height as the US Bank Tower, has a completely different look, and it's right across the street from the US Bank Tower.

The skyline will look great from the lake, but not from the freeways.

You're correct. I didn't say I'd prefer the LPT, it's just that it's already been proposed and some work has been done on it already. Yeah, I'd rather see a varying size next to the USB tower, and, yes, the lake view is about the best one going these days.

...and, yes, the lake view is about the best one going these days.

Indeed.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1095/526573049_5cbe7c64ba_b.jpg

Indeed.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1095/526573049_5cbe7c64ba_b.jpg

wow, thats a very nice photo.

and who cares about skyscrapers when you will have the Harley Museum opening up next year. Its going to be the biggest thing in Milwaukee.

http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=696352

Speaking of skyscrapers, Emporis states we now have 5 buildings under construction here. I believe that puts Milwaukee #1 in the Midwest outside Chicago for buildings currently U/C.

Truly something to be proud of.

MilwaukeeMark, is that an HDR composite? It has such nice crispness.

MilwaukeeMark, is that an HDR composite? It has such nice crispness.

Yes, it's an HDR panoramic. And thanks. :)

and who cares about skyscrapers when you will have the Harley Museum opening up next year. Its going to be the biggest thing in Milwaukee.

http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=696352

Anybody know what the admission charge will be to get into the museum?
Hope Harley learned something from the debacle over at Pier Wisconsin:
1. Don't open until you're ready
2. If you do need to open before you're ready, don't charge full admission to see unfinished exhibits. It's bad PR and it makes it much more difficult to get people to come back.
I hope the museum draws the kind of numbers and revenue being advertised.

Speaking of skyscrapers, Emporis states we now have 5 buildings under construction here. I believe that puts Milwaukee #1 in the Midwest outside Chicago for buildings currently U/C.

Truly something to be proud of.

What are the five?

What are the five?

There are only three. And two of them are the same thing (Park Lafayette). The two others he may be referring to are St. Mary's and City Green... but neither of those are skyscrapers.

St. Johns will start relatively soon though and both Ghazi and Moderne look good at this point from a probability standpoint. So maybe by this time next year we'll have five. :)

Anybody know what the admission charge will be to get into the museum?
Hope Harley learned something from the debacle over at Pier Wisconsin:
1. Don't open until you're ready
2. If you do need to open before you're ready, don't charge full admission to see unfinished exhibits. It's bad PR and it makes it much more difficult to get people to come back.
I hope the museum draws the kind of numbers and revenue being advertised.

Agreed, the whole Pier Wisconsin thing really left a sour taste in our mouths (wife and I). That thing was an unfinished wreck when we went the opening month. I reluctantly returned a few weeks ago, and it is MUCH better. If you go during the last hour, you can get in for $10 too, but you won't be able to see any movies or anything.

There are only three. And two of them are the same thing (Park Lafayette). The two others he may be referring to are St. Mary's and City Green... but neither of those are skyscrapers.

St. Johns will start relatively soon though and both Ghazi and Moderne look good at this point from a probability standpoint. So maybe by this time next year we'll have five. :)

The Breakwater must figure in that count somewhere, yes?
Regarding the Moderne and the condo portion of Ghazi's development, any word on the early sales climate of those two, high-profile projects?
As for St. John's starting "relatively soon," are you that confident based on some numbers you've heard? I hope that project happens, but, my goodness, those will be some pricy apartments...with huge entry fees! I understand they are spsecial care residences for (well-heeled) seniors, but, yikes!

The Breakwater must figure in that count somewhere, yes?
Regarding the Moderne and the condo portion of Ghazi's development, any word on the early sales climate of those two, high-profile projects?
As for St. John's starting "relatively soon," are you that confident based on some numbers you've heard? I hope that project happens, but, my goodness, those will be some pricy apartments...with huge entry fees! I understand they are spsecial care residences for (well-heeled) seniors, but, yikes!

The St. John's tower will be built, no question. I wouldn't be surprised to see them breaking ground within the next six months. I've known about the tower for quite a long time... they've needed it for a while. In fact, they recently re-designed their front entrance and park area in the back in anticipation of this new development.

The fees there have been high for a long, long time anyway... this is nothing new. Residents pay for what they get. It's the same thing as University Club Tower versus Park Lafayette. You can pay less to live in Park Lafayette but if you're looking for more than just a pretty view and a decent condo, you can pay to get what you get at UCT.

With regard to Ghazi and Moderne, I don't have any hard numbers at the moment but I'll try to get some. And yes, the Breakwater is the "third" skyscraper development.

What are the five?

Strictly by going off of Emporis's definition of a highrise as being 10-12 stories:

-The Breakwater
-Park Lafayette South Tower
-Park Lafayette North Tower
-First Place on the River (Only 12 stories, but a monster of a building from I94)
-The Residences on Water & Staybridge Suites

First Place is almost done and will be coming off the list soon, but as Mark said, many more projects are in line to take its place hopefully next year.

been away from milwaukee for five years, but i applaud milwaukee's swift transition into a sophisticated urban metropolis
hope good things continue

Has anyone done a recent rundown on the MKE projects including- u/c, completed, proposed? Thanks in advance! :)

Has anyone done a recent rundown on the MKE projects including- u/c, completed, proposed? Thanks in advance! :)This link should make it quick and simple for you.
http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/ci/bu/sk/?id=101324

this might be a bit ambitious, but it would be cool if we had the construction diagrams for Milwaukee that they have in some of the other forums.

Does anyone know if there is a proposal for that big parking lot on Water St., across from the new hotel under construction? There is so much going on in that area that I forget.

this might be a bit ambitious, but it would be cool if we had the construction diagrams for Milwaukee that they have in some of the other forums.

I've actually been thinking about doing that for a long time now... I'll be gone this weekend but sometime next week, I'll post what you're looking for.

Hey, What happened to Uncle Phil? Had one too many pieces of pie or was that ReddAlert/Johnny Drama again?

Hey, What happened to Uncle Phil? Had one too many pieces of pie or was that ReddAlert/Johnny Drama again?
If it was I got to ask what is wrong with this site? The guy was behaving himself. Let by gones be by gones and let him post!

If it was I got to ask what is wrong with this site? The guy was behaving himself.

What?

I think he also posted in other topics, namely international ones, where politics tend to enter every "discussion", and we all know how that can be.

So, what is everyone's thoughts on how Ald. D'Amato's decision not to run again for 3rd District Alderman will effect development in Milwaukee? He was the most pro-development of all of the Aldermen. Many of the candidates are running a campaign against aggressive development.

Seemingly Anti-Development Candidates:
Nik Kovac: http://www.kovac08.com/
Sura Faraj: http://www.suraforchange.com/

More Pro-Development Candidates:
John Connelly: http://connellyforalderman.com/
Sam McGovern-Rowen: doesn't have a website that I can find

Don't forget Patrick Flaherty ( http://www.patricknewleadership.com/ ) He is very active in the community and from my understanding pro development.

You know with all the talk about a new office tower in the midst, it really would be nice to see one at least 35 floors (i can't see one over 48fl even though i would love to see that) be built before or start construction before 2010. Now it would be great to have LPT as this "potential office tower" and even greater to have LPT and another "potential office tower", with maybe both towers being done by 2013. What do you guys think?

Does anyone know if there is a proposal for that big parking lot on Water St., across from the new hotel under construction? There is so much going on in that area that I forget.

i was just thinking about this the other day

So, what is everyone's thoughts on how Ald. D'Amato's decision not to run again for 3rd District Alderman will effect development in Milwaukee? He was the most pro-development of all of the Aldermen. Many of the candidates are running a campaign against aggressive development.

I'm glad to see D'Amato go, the EastSide needs a fresh view from their leadership, especially when you look at D'Amato's choices for the UWM neighborhood.

So, what is everyone's thoughts on how Ald. D'Amato's decision not to run again for 3rd District Alderman will effect development in Milwaukee? He was the most pro-development of all of the Aldermen. Many of the candidates are running a campaign against aggressive development.



Oh great news, now maybe UWM and business around it can expand! :banana:

As far as UWM expansion goes, I believe their efforts to expand in Tosa should be stopped until options within the city are explored.

As far as UWM expansion goes, I believe their efforts to expand in Tosa should be stopped until options within the city are explored.

I wrote a letter to Carlos Santiago on his feedback form a few weeks ago about my opposition to the expansion being so far from the main campus, and asked that they considered looking at the Menomonee Valley, Park East, and anywhere else that is connected by the current campus with a bus route.
here is the reply I got: Dear ---------,

Thank you for your comments about the future of UWM's engineering
programs in your message to UWM Chancellor Carlos Santiago. I work with
the chancellor and review messages sent to him via his web site.

The university is in the very early stages of master planning for its
future and how additional campuses could be involved. Information about
UWM master planning can be found at http://www4.uwm.edu/master_plan/.

On those web pages is information about how to get involved in the
process through the many meetings that will be held and also how to
provide feedback. I encourage you to share your perspectives in these
places.

Sincerely,

Brad
Anyway, I recomend you check out the link he sent me, it has a bunch of the Comp. Plans for the campus dating back to the 60's. I found it interesting. And if you want to send them your comments go to http://www4.uwm.edu/chancellor/feedback.cfm to send comments.

There is an ad for the Moderne in Milwaukee Magazine this month. The design is different. I don't have it with me and I can't find a website, but the look seems to be more glass and less white.

New rendering: http://www.themoderne.net/html/moderneGlamour.html

New Website: http://www.themoderne.net/

Cool. Maybe not different.
http://www.themoderne.net/images/Moderne_112607RGBlarge.jpghttp://graphics.jsonline.com/graphics/bym/img/apr07/moderne_042407_big.jpg
So then just across the street to the north will be the Sidney Hih project and just across the street to the east will be Aloft.

Since the Moderne has a developer listed on their website, does that mean they are close to breaking ground in the next few months???

They put up a 20 ft tall rendering on the wall of the building next to where it's proposed at. They've got an office for it there too housed in a big steel tank. Looks real good

The Moderne website has the units on the top 3-floors fetching $1.5 million, but only one has been reserved.

Does anyone have the number of units / hotel rooms for the Moderne?

The Moderne website has the units on the top 3-floors fetching $1.5 million, but only one has been reserved.

Fantastic, I will make sure to reserve one.

This has to be one of the more exciting projects for our skyline. I really like this proposal.

Are those mountains in the background of that Moderne rendering??

Looks more like Denver than Milwaukee!

Are those mountains in the background of that Moderne rendering??

Looks more like Denver than Milwaukee!

Naw, that's just the Crystal Ridge ski hill in Franklin. :lol:

Does anyone have the number of units / hotel rooms for the Moderne?

80 units, and 120-room Element hotel...but the developer said a couple months ago that the hotel could be dropped and replaced with more condos. The developer also said they need to pre-sell 30-50% of the units before they can get a construction loan...and with only 3 or so units listed as reserved on the website (assuming it's up to date), they've got a ways to go yet.

80 units, and 120-room Element hotel...but the developer said a couple months ago that the hotel could be dropped and replaced with more condos. The developer also said they need to pre-sell 30-50% of the units before they can get a construction loan...and with only 3 or so units listed as reserved on the website (assuming it's up to date), they've got a ways to go yet.

I dont think the site is up to date, considering half of it has been "Under Construction" for months.

I dont think the site is up to date, considering half of it has been "Under Construction" for months.

Yes, portions of the site have been "under construction" since it debuted a few months ago (and parts still remain blank today). The Pricing section, which lists the prices for each unit and notes which ones are reserved/available, has only come online within the past 2 or 3 weeks. Same with the slick new rendering.

I figured, since I work right next door to these projects, I should post some updates:

-Staybridge Suites-

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2264/2123031249_4767c8df18.jpg?v=0<BR>
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2003/2123805758_824c56e404.jpg?v=0<BR><BR>

-The Moderne (Proposed Site)-

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2092/2123031193_fc735801cd.jpg?v=0

I love everything about The Moderne proposal. It fells like they're doing everything right, and I really hope it moves ahead.

is it just me, or do they seem to only be building half of the Staybridge?

Yea that's just the front of the Staybridge... I assume once they are done with the front half they will move the crane off the property (maybe in the street?) and build the second half.

Thanks for the updates. Does anyone have a rendering of Staybridge? I don't remember what it looks like.

Thanks for the updates. Does anyone have a rendering of Staybridge? I don't remember what it looks like.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2218/2125402890_c40536f93b.jpg?v=0

Oh, right. I only knew that building as "Residences on Water." Had I read EastSider's opening post in the Park East Development News thread more carefully, I would've known that Residences on Water will contain Staybridge Suites hotel units.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2218/2125402890_c40536f93b.jpg?v=0

I just love this rendering...NOT!
How can any reputable architect let this out. Presuming this view looks SE --and I doubt you'd actually see both the USB building and the UCT building in the same frame -- when did those two buildings change place on the urban landscape?! Ok, I can understand stretching the view a bit to include two of Milwaukee's most prominent buildings, but to have them shown backwards?!!!!

I just love this rendering...NOT!
How can any reputable architect let this out. Presuming this view looks SE --and I doubt you'd actually see both the USB building and the UCT building in the same frame -- when did those two buildings change place on the urban landscape?! Ok, I can understand stretching the view a bit to include two of Milwaukee's most prominent buildings, but to have them shown backwards?!!!!

They should've stuck with the real backdrop:

http://img230.imageshack.us/img230/7695/residencesonwaterpk0.jpg

From JSonline.com

Milwaukee County sells Park East parcel
Milwaukee County has completed its sale of a 2.1-acre parcel in the Park East area to a Chicago developer, County Executive Scott Walker announced today.

RSC & Associates LLC paid $2,725,000 for the lot, bordered by N. Milwaukee, N. Jefferson and E. Lyon streets and E. Ogden Ave.

RSC plans to develop a 122-room Hyatt Place boutique hotel and a 102-room Hyatt Summerfield Suites extended-stay hotel, along with 105 apartments and retail space.

And this from onmilwaukee.com

Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker announced today the closing on the sale of the first parcel of land on the former Park East freeway site to RSC Development. The parcel located between Jefferson, Milwaukee, Lyon and Ogden Streets on the north end of Downtown.

RSC will build a Hyatt Place Hotel, Hyatt Summerfield Suites, retail opportunities and 100 luxury apartments and five town homes. The 2.1-acre site sold for $2,725,000.

"This is a great step toward reclaiming the Park East Freeway corridor for growth and opportunity, said Walker in a release. "We look forward to working with Rich Curto and RSC Development on this area."

Curto, president of RSC Development said, "This is a great opportunity for us and we are excited in continuing down this road with Milwaukee County and look forward to working with them on block two and other projects in Milwaukee County."

Walker said the development will add $65 million to the property tax base of Milwaukee County and will provide a significant number of jobs for area residents.

I just love this rendering...NOT!
How can any reputable architect let this out. Presuming this view looks SE --and I doubt you'd actually see both the USB building and the UCT building in the same frame -- when did those two buildings change place on the urban landscape?! Ok, I can understand stretching the view a bit to include two of Milwaukee's most prominent buildings, but to have them shown backwards?!!!!

Renderings are marketing tools designed to sell units, period. I've even seen the opposite situation where nearby buildings are eliminated entirely, giving a false sense that views will be uninterrupted.

Renderings are marketing tools designed to sell units, period. I've even seen the opposite situation where nearby buildings are eliminated entirely, giving a false sense that views will be uninterrupted.

I understand that, but this is rather goofy nonetheless. I like the project quite a bit, however.

Has anyone visited the new Urban Outfitters in the Kenilworth Building since it opened? Sort of impressive:
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2231/2086473248_3df7ffa064_m.jpg
(flickr)

Has anyone visited the new Urban Outfitters in the Kenilworth Building since it opened? Sort of impressive:
[IMG]http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2231/2086473248_3df7ffa064_m.jpg[IMG]
(flickr)

Looks nice in there and it's a decently sized store. Its alright for decor, books and random shit but I wouldn't buy any of the clothes there short of a few tshirts. All of the clothing is really emo. Not my thing. 5ish years ago they sold better stuff, although maybe that was just the Madison store...

Has anyone visited the new Urban Outfitters in the Kenilworth Building since it opened?

Yeah, I really like it in there.. I too would be more likely to buy the books and little shit, but still pretty cool. Nice space and addition to the neighborhood.

From the top floor of the Viking:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2040/2139606394_d99a877baf_o.jpg

Nice one MilwaukeeMark... 2 years from now, the Breakwater Tower should also be seen from this angle. Impressive view of downtown even though a couple of the city's tallest are hidden from view. What building is the Viking?

http://www.rscrealestate.com/images/pageImage_parkeast.jpg
Hyatt Place Boutique
Hyatt Summerfield Suites
6,900 sq ft of Retail
100 Apartments

The year is ending with another milestone in efforts to redevelop the Park East area: Milwaukee County has finally sold its first parcel in that barren strip along downtown's northern edge.

"It's the only Christmas present we wanted," said Robert Dennik, county economic development director, about the sale.

Chicago-based RSC & Associates LLC paid $2.725 million for the 2-acre parcel, bordered by N. Milwaukee, N. Jefferson and E. Lyon streets and E. Ogden Ave.

"It's huge. It's the first domino to fall," Dennik said. The transaction was completed Friday - three weeks later than initially scheduled. The county will keep around $1.5 million, with the remaining funds shared with the state and federal governments, Dennik said.

JS Online: Sale of Park East Land Fulfills County Wishes (http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=700350)

From the top floor of the Viking:


Very nice, and my favorite downtown view too, boy, couldn't ask for a better forum christmas present, thanks Mark!

From the top floor of the Viking:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2040/2139606394_d99a877baf_o.jpg

Ohhh, I really like this view. But... hm... couldn't you have lowered it about 1 degree? Then you'd see my place! :)

Ohhh, I really like this view. But... hm... couldn't you have lowered it about 1 degree? Then you'd see my place! :)

Thanks!

As for lowering it a bit... there are two reasons for that not happening. 1) The rooftops directly below are large and unsightly. 2) I tried to get one that was lowered a bit but my camera battery died before I could finish.

And what is the Viking? It's a 9-story building on the corner of Kane and Farwell.

http://www.rscrealestate.com/images/pageImage_parkeast.jpg
Hyatt Place Boutique
Hyatt Summerfield Suites
6,900 sq ft of Retail
100 Apartments

JS Online: Sale of Park East Land Fulfills County Wishes (http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=700350)

FYI, the Park East Square proposal from RSC consists of two separate phases on two neighboring blocks. This article about RSC closing on the land sale is only for the first phase on the first block, updated renderings of which don't seem to have ever been published since the design changed earlier this year. The rendering posted above is an early version of the proposed second phase on the second block. RSC has yet to seal the deal with the County on the second block.

Does anyone here know the reason(s) for the continual delay of the Pleasant Street Market development on Commerce and Pleasant? Every couple of months, there is an article somewhere discussing how groundbreaking is pending in the coming weeks....then, nothing.

The last I heard was that the design was approved by the Common Council and that they would start construction before year end. Now, here we are at year end and, again, nothing....Has anyone heard anything??

I am very excited for this development but the silence and inactivity is driving me crazy!!

http://www.eppsteinuhen.com/portfolio/project_detail.cfm?m=17&id=84

Does anyone know what is being built on these three sites near North Avenue on the East Side?

1. The southwest corner of North and Prospect. This used to be an Amaco station, and the thing that is going in appears to be built to the street line.

2. The south corner of Farwell and Maryland. This used to be a Citgo station as recently as a few weeks ago. They have taken the pumps out and appear to be building some sort of structure along the southern lot line.

3. The corner of Greenwich and Farwell. Two houses appear to have been torn down here and it appears that a foundation is being dug.

Yes.

1. That is going to be 2 or 3 fast casual dining places, like Chipotle, Noodles, Chin's, etc. Possibly a Starbucks. A gross underutilization of that corner.

2. They are just redoing that gas station and making the convenience store larger/nicer.

3. A dentist office is being built. They are relocating from Downer Ave.

Yes.

1. That is going to be 2 or 3 fast casual dining places, like Chipotle, Noodles, Chin's, etc. Possibly a Starbucks. A gross underutilization of that corner.

2. They are just redoing that gas station and making the convenience store larger/nicer.

3. A dentist office is being built. They are relocating from Downer Ave.

How about all the other random small projects going on around the east side? I can't think of any specific examples but I know there are a bunch of them.

Hey someone earlier had suggested having a meetup and that sounds like a fun idea.. How about next week Thursday Jan 10th come downtown and have some drinks. I'll suggest going to Eurobar (my home away from home) its at the intersection of Milwaukee and Mason... and how about 6pm? any takers?

^^ I'm all for the idea of a meetup, although it probably would be better to plan meetups on the weekends for us out-of-towners to be able to join. Of course, then we start interfering with people's weekend plans.

^^I guess it's a good thing I just turned 21! :)

Thursday at 6:00, hey? I think I can make that. We could do a larger meet-up another time during a weekend... summer months would be better for that seeing as though that could easily turn into a mini-vacation for the people coming in from out of town.

Thursday at 6:00, hey? I think I can make that. We could do a larger meet-up another time during a weekend... summer months would be better for that seeing as though that could easily turn into a mini-vacation for the people coming in from out of town.

I might be able to make it for that as well. Keep me posted!

http://www.biztimes.com/nf/uploads/Image/Boiler-House-3.jpg
(From Small Business Times (http://www.biztimes.com/realestateweekly/2008/1/2/#pabst-brewery-site-lands-another-tenant))

Yet another Milwaukee company is planning to move into the Boiler House building at 1243 N. 10th St in the former Pabst brewery complex in downtown Milwaukee.

Milwaukee-based AMB Development Group LLC plans to move its offices from 219 N. Milwaukee St. in Milwaukee's Historic Third Ward to the Boiler House building. AMB plans to lease 8,941 square feet of space in the building.

This is a great new resource: http://www.mkedevelopment.com/

Thanks twoaday.

Downtown buidling to become a Holiday Inn
Local developer Charles Gabaldon plans to convert the seven-story Posner Building, in downtown Milwaukee, into a 160-room Holiday Inn.

Gabaldon's $21 million proposal includes the purchase and redevelopment of the Posner Building, 152 W. Wisconsin Ave., according to plans being reviewed today by the Common Council's Public Works Committee.

The committee will consider a request by Gabaldon's investors group, Milwaukee Hotel Associates LLC, to lease 50 spaces in a neighboring city-owned parking structure. Those spaces would be provided to hotel guests. The 473-space structure, 724 N. 2nd St., is underused.

Gabaldon plans to have the hotel open by May 2009, according to city documents. The hotel would be a Holiday Inn, said Ald. Robert Bauman, whose district includes downtown. Gabaldon plans to redevelop vacant portions of the building's first floor into stores and restaurants.

Gabaldon's project would be the latest in a series of downtown hotel developments. They include the 128-room Staybridge Suites, under construction at the southeast corner of E. Juneau Ave. and N. Water St.; Chicago developer Richard Curto's plans to build a 122-room Hyatt Place and a 102-room Hyatt Summerfield Suites on a 2-acre parcel, bordered by N. Milwaukee, N. Jefferson and E. Lyon streets and E. Ogden Ave., which Curto's firm purchased in December, and an $18 million renovation at the 483-room Hyatt Regency Milwaukee, 333 W. Kilbourn Ave.

I thought this building was owned by Johnny V. and was to become a boutique hotel along side his restaurant "empire"?

He has been selling/closing a lot of his stuff to concentrate on mo's irish pub and mo's a place for steaks...and spreading them nationally.

It will be great to see something back in this building. And hopefully the first floor wig shop will be evicted.

This is a great new resource: http://www.mkedevelopment.com/

Thanks twoaday.

Fantastic work twoaday.

araman0 and MilwaukeeD> Thanks! In addition to the blog and photos section I'll be adding more development related functions in the near future!

And who all is in for next thursday (or should we move it to the weekend that's ok) ?

http://cll.bizjournals.com/story_image/106554-400-0.jpg?rev=2

Milwaukee developers Sonny Bando and Tim Olson are investing $9 million in the conversion of a Walker's Point warehouse to an apartment and condominium building.

The development team plans to renovate the 104-year-old, 98,000-square-foot building at 223 W. Pittsburgh St., Milwaukee, by adding 63 market-rate apartments and six condos. The condos will be part of an eighth-floor addition, said Bando.

link (http://milwaukee.bizjournals.com/milwaukee/stories/2007/12/31/story3.html)

araman0 and MilwaukeeD> Thanks! In addition to the blog and photos section I'll be adding more development related functions in the near future!

And who all is in for next thursday (or should we move it to the weekend that's ok) ?

I'd probably be there on Thursday

A Minnesota-based restaurateur plans to convert a vacant downtown Milwaukee building into a large night club and restaurant.

Bob Carlson has proposed the tavern, Bootleggers of Milwaukee, for a 9,400-square-foot building at 1023 N. Old World 3rd St. The two-story building housed Mader's Art Gallery until it closed last summer. Carlson co-owns a Bootleggers tavern in downtown Minneapolis, and also is co-owner of Premier Restaurant Management Inc., which operates a chain of sports taverns, located mainly in the Minneapolis area.

The Common Council's Utilities and Licenses Committee has recommended that Bootleggers receive a tavern license. That recommendation, which requires full council approval, is opposed by some Old World 3rd St. restaurant and tavern owners, who say Bootleggers would be too large for its proposed site.

http://www.mkedcd.org/parkeast/images/projects/SidneyHih250.JPG

New rendering on the DCD website.. Thoughts?

My first thought is "hideous". Its like a combination of the Humanities building at the UW with an Ogg Hall built to rise above it. They are paying homage to the 2 worst buildings ever constructed at UW! DO NOT WANT!

http://www.mkedcd.org/parkeast/images/projects/SidneyHih250.JPG

New rendering on the DCD website.. Thoughts?

The picture is so small, I wish they had a bigger one with more detail. Based on the small picture, I like it only because its different then all the other new buildings going up (crazy angles that shoot out the top).

Well I know the plan changed as the other brewery building will no longer be part of the development..

http://www.mkedcd.org/parkeast/images/projects/SidneyHih250.JPG

New rendering on the DCD website.. Thoughts?

This new rendering is...well, a mess. This is quite a radical change in design from the initial drawing to this current model. Yikes!
Looks like the Sidney Hi building is the cornerstone of the SE corner of the project. In general, I don't like it. But, we'll see. At least the tallest structure of the development is now being mentioned at 25 stories -- up 4 stories from the original, I believe. I'll say this, it's not exactly imaginative. That tall building looks nauseatingly-similar to the Juneau Village tower...in a darker grey. Can you say 1960's?

http://www.mkedcd.org/parkeast/images/projects/SidneyHih250.JPG

New rendering on the DCD website.. Thoughts?

Oh. My. God. It's. Horrendous.

Is that a parking garage adjacent to the sidney hih building? If so, it looks like the Bank One/Chase garage....Terrible.....

Wow, what is wrong with these architects?

I agree with skyking - we need to move on from the 1960's super mod architecture. PLEASE!

I'm glad that they're finally pushing progressive architecture in this country, but I sort of agree with skyking. This runs dangerously close to regressive. The accent colors are key, and if they go, that building will be a disaster. But if they stay, I kind of like it.

If you asked me to imagine a more hideous building, I'd be hard-pressed to come through.

There certainly are more hideous buildings out there. I'm with eMatt - the picture is too small to really judge.

Also, hey guys, I'm new to SSC and just finally caught up on all the posts.

don't worry guys its all just a bad dream (sindney hih)... we'll wake up soon

I'll say this, it's not exactly imaginative. That tall building looks nauseatingly-similar to the Juneau Village tower...in a darker grey. Can you say 1960's?

I'm not sure if I'm disagreeing with you here or not, but if you're trashing the Juneau Village towers, then I definitely am.

They were one of the exceedingly rare design successes of that period (Marine Plaza is the only other one that comes to mind), and a non-completed one at that. There were originally supposed to be several more high and midrise towers built, but a lack of demand aborted those plans. The completely inappropriate suburban style townhouses (I'm sure they're very nice places to live in, but their exterior design is fatally out of place) were what was eventually substituted. I would say that the the failure of Juneau Village pretty much signaled that Milwaukee wouldn't or couldn't support a more upscale, urban-centered way of life, and drove away denser residential development from that part of the city for a generation.

Good design is good no matter when it is created, and no period should be used to tar an otherwise worthwhile project (certain historically monstrous regimes excepted, of course, whose inflicted wounds are yet far,far from healing).

As for Sydney Hih Square, might be varied in a fun and lively way, or could end up an eyesore. Not enough detail or angles to tell from this postage stamp.

You can actually see what the built out version of Juneau Village Towers in Chicago if you want... It's called Sandburg Village I believe and it is a very odd thing to see.

Mandel Delays Condo Project (http://milwaukee.bizjournals.com/milwaukee/stories/2008/01/07/story2.html)

Mandel Group Inc. has delayed by six months the construction of its Domus condominium development along the Milwaukee River in the 3rd Ward because of a turbulent downtown condominium market.

The Milwaukee developer originally planned to break ground on the $52 million, 61-unit condo building, 401 E. Erie St., next to the firm's Marine Terminal Lofts, early in the fourth quarter of 2007.

"Our review of the condo market prompted us to reset the start for spring," said Bob Monnat, Mandel Group's chief operating officer.

By delaying construction, Monnat said Mandel Group will also benefit from lower prices from building contractors looking for jobs and lower prices for some construction materials.

That building is pretty freakin ugly. I'm all for creativity but designing building while tripping on psychedelics is a bad idea in any time period. Someone slap Ruvin across the face for me for approving that design for his project.

I was starting to wonder about Domus as they had told me they were going to breakground by this past December and clearly that hadn't happened. They must of not been able to sell enough units yet to break ground.

Those of you who said the picture is too small to judge are probably right. Plus, remember when the first render of the moderne came out and we all thought it looked like a UCT/KILBOURN offspring?

I did notice that only one section of the Sidney Hih building is actually being used?? Are they going to demolish the rest?? What happened to preserving the whole thing? Plus, as mentioned, it appears that the parking garage is on the outside. The earlier design had the parking garage hidden in the middle of the project and the part that you COULD see was going to have a nice facade with ivy like plants growing on it (maybe).

I'm reserving judgement until I can see more and larger pictures... but it's not looking good so far...

Kinda cool, Milwaukee was featured as the webcam of the day on Foxnews.com (Hopefully the attention isn't a result of the severe storms in the area, though).

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,318306,00.html

you can barely see milwaukee in that webcam shot. most of it is a fricken smoke stack. lol great impression huh...

[QUOTE=milwaukeeunseen;17551105]Oh. My. God. It's. Horrendous. [/QUO
Totally agree. This is heinous. The city let this pass? It's a clusterf*ck..it makes me nervous when I see it. How is this supposed to inspire anyone when they come across it? Truly an eyesore if ever there was one. Really? Is this happening?

The City did not pass this at all.

The County is considering (or have they, it's so confusing I lose track) giving them an Option on the land. That does not mean that the City has said that it meets the Park East Redevelopment Plan.

Ruvin's new design is bullshit. It makes me really fucking angry. They had an absolutely stunning original design, I considered it one of the best in the nation, and it included full presrvation of the Sydney Hih buildings. What the hell happened? They absolutely destroyed the grace and sofistication of the original design and ripped down the adjacent Sidney Hih Buildings.

I know at this point it's only speculation, but the fact that the Ruvin website is under redevelopment isn't reassuring. Ruvin, if you really are planning to do this with the Sydney Hih site, and if I had known you would've dropped that unbelieveable early design, I probably would've supported Rana.

This is the third or fourth version of this project that has been released. I wouldn't get too worried until the final version is out there. However, I haven't liked any of them to date.

What happened is Ruvin has never done a project on this scale and well is in over their heads. Further people need to understand if a building meets zoning (set backs, height, density, use) the City really can't do anything to change the architecture of a project. In cases where the City owns the land is basically when they can really do some good but again the County owns this land. And the only thing the County cares about regarding this project is selling that land. If you look closely you can see that land sales in the Park East are counted on in the County budget.

Oh. My. God. It's. Horrendous.

From the comments we've seen on Ruvin's latest rendering -- some of them quite colorful -- our disdain for this design is nearly unanimous. It would be interesting to see different views of this...um, thing. Just maybe it's not as bad as it appears from this shot. I guess before we completely blow a gasket here, let's wait (and hope) for a better final version.

In the final analysis, however, unless the "professional" architects involved with this project do a better job assimiliating the Sidney Hih into the design, you might as well raze that bit of Milwaukee's history rather than insult it by throwing it a bone by incorporating it as what amounts to a doorstop. Maybe I'm not hip enough to understand the significance of the Hih as shown here, but it looks as though the designers figured they could save money on materials by "using" what's already there.

It's horrible. I looks like it was put together by a committee. I was a fan of the old design, but this looks ridiculous.

This doesn't seem as nice as the previous proposal, but I don't think it's necessarily as bad as others seem to either. It sort of tough to say too much about one 250 X 200 pixel image. Plus, designs can be pretty fluid.

Hey I was just checking to see if people are coming to the meetup tonight? I'm heading over (I'd probably be at Euro anyhow... but hope to see some of you there... If you come just ask a bartender for Dave... they'll know me.

open house for an update to the downtown plan next week: http://www.mkedcd.org/planning/plans/downtown/index.html

American Apparel Coming to Milwaukee, but where? (http://onmilwaukee.com/market/articles/amerapparel.html)
http://i.americanapparel.net/storefront/images/detail/serve.asp?media=polar60_Red.jpg
Real estate insiders are buzzing on another big national retail tenant for the greater Downtown Milwaukee area. The Los Angeles-based American Apparel is headed to Milwaukee.

"I am pleased to inform you that American Apparel does have plans to come to Milwaukee very soon. Location and opening dates are still in the works, check our Web site for updates," said Kris Simms from the company's retail operations division.

While an exact location is not confirmed, the clothing manufacturer, wholesaler and retailer could be a good fit for the Kenilworth Building on Milwaukee's East Side. Urban Outfitters recently opened in the same location, and industry sources have confirmed that American Apparel has looked at space in the building.
The publicly-traded company is in the process of rapid retail growth, opening stores around the world. It currently has five locations in Chicagoland, including one in Wicker Park on Milwaukee Ave.

I hope it is in the city!!! Maybe this is the big tenant Grand Ave was talking about awhile ago

American Apparel Coming to Milwaukee, but where? (http://onmilwaukee.com/market/articles/amerapparel.html)

Real estate insiders are buzzing on another big national retail tenant for the greater Downtown Milwaukee area. The Los Angeles-based American Apparel is headed to Milwaukee.

"I am pleased to inform you that American Apparel does have plans to come to Milwaukee very soon. Location and opening dates are still in the works, check our Web site for updates," said Kris Simms from the company's retail operations division.

While an exact location is not confirmed, the clothing manufacturer, wholesaler and retailer could be a good fit for the Kenilworth Building on Milwaukee's East Side. Urban Outfitters recently opened in the same location, and industry sources have confirmed that American Apparel has looked at space in the building.
The publicly-traded company is in the process of rapid retail growth, opening stores around the world. It currently has five locations in Chicagoland, including one in Wicker Park on Milwaukee Ave.

Oooo! Awesome! I cant wait! They sell really obscure stuff that I'm into :)

Those sunglasses are fucking ugly!

Check out the American Apparel website. Check it out. You might like it.

I hope its like the Manhattan location where all of the females wear lingerie.

Regardless, great news! I can't imagine this is the new, unique Grand Ave. tenant we heard so much about though. The place would probably fail there.

^^ Those sunglasses are something else, but the website doesn't look bad at all, and clothes that you can feel good about buying. I'm sure I'd stop in if there was one in Milwaukee.

Disappointing...

From the Small Business Times (http://www.biztimes.com/news/2008/1/11/third-ward-project-will-be-downsized):

Third Ward project will be downsized

By Andrew Weiland, of SBT

Published January 11, 2008

Hawley Strigenz Development Corp. has significantly scaled back the size of the proposed Catalano Place on the Park development that it is planning to build in Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward. As a result, construction is expected to start soon.

The firm has dropped its original plans to build a five-story, 150,000-square-foot office and retail building at the northwest corner of Milwaukee Street and Menomonee Street. The building was to have about 65,000 square feet of office space, 20,000 square feet of first floor retail space and 158 indoor parking spaces.

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r21/g3forc305/Downtown%20Developments/ThirdWdProj.jpg

Yea and the work they've done on the current building seems... well I sure hope it turns out looking ok.

Disappointing...
Disappointing to a certain degree but anything is a marked improvement to what is there now.

I'll take a 5-story over a 2-story anyday...especially that close to Downtown Milwaukee and in the bustling Third Ward.

I have a question about mass transit in Milwaukee that maybe someone could answer.

How would light rail work in Milwaukee? Where could there be rail lines and stations placed in downtown, the east side, and other built up areas?

Thanks.

While I like the idea of a five story building over a two story building, I really do prefer the updated Catalano Place. The old design was completely out of character, while the new one is understated and pleasant. I thoroughly approve.

As for American Apparel, I'm glad we're getting noticed FINALLY by national retailers, but this store screams boring to me. That's just an opinion, but they have photos of their stores on their website, and every location I looked at reminded me of gas stations I've seen in the ghetto. Their clothes are lame too. The same, drab, solid color tee-shirt selling for $20-$30. I don't know, I guess it's an improvement.

I tell you though, I was sitting in the QDoba on Prospect, with a Whole Foods to the right, an Urban Outfitters to the left and a hell of a lot of empty space between. I can't wait for that neighborhood to take off.

I have a question about mass transit in Milwaukee that maybe someone could answer.

How would light rail work in Milwaukee? Where could there be rail lines and stations placed in downtown, the east side, and other built up areas?

Thanks.

Ask this question in the "Will Milwaukee ever see rail transit?" thread. The two are seperate because every time the topic of transit comes up, it takes up pages of the thread. I could answer it for you there but I don't want to start anything in this thread.

While I like the idea of a five story building over a two story building, I really do prefer the updated Catalano Place. The old design was completely out of character, while the new one is understated and pleasant. I thoroughly approve.
I think you're right on that point, the older 5 story design was out of character for the 3rd Ward. It was a real nice design but I think it would've worked better some place else.

I think you're right on that point, the older 5 story design was out of character for the 3rd Ward. It was a real nice design but I think it would've worked better some place else.

So is what you're saying, that everything built in the 3rd Ward should look like everything else? I don't think the original design was out of character for the area, especially when you consider height.

So is what you're saying, that everything built in the 3rd Ward should look like everything else?

Well not exactly, but in a historic district such as the Third Ward, Yes it's important to maintain the historic aesthetic. While I do agree that the five story structure was more in keeping with the heights of other buildings, the shorter buildings are more in keeping with the other neighborhoood's architecture aesthetic.

Well a 2-story building in Downtown Milwaukee is just plain silly. No ifs, ands, or buts about it on my end.

Why doesn't the developer just build the building in the SUBURBS if that's all he wants to do... ;)

Well a 2-story building in Downtown Milwaukee is just plain silly. No ifs, ands, or buts about it on my end.

Why doesn't the developer just build the building in the SUBURBS if that's all he wants to do... ;)

well, he isn't really building the entire building, some of it is already there and part of it is historic. While I generally agree that we should be building taller buildings, the Third Ward is different...and is not really downtown.

Ask this question in the "Will Milwaukee ever see rail transit?" thread. The two are seperate because every time the topic of transit comes up, it takes up pages of the thread. I could answer it for you there but I don't want to start anything in this thread.

ok, sorry about that

I personally like the new version of the Catalano Place plan. The original was too glassy and big.

well, he isn't really building the entire building, some of it is already there and part of it is historic. While I generally agree that we should be building taller buildings, the Third Ward is different...and is not really downtown.

Well that's a bit...well...odd. "The Third Ward is different...and is not really downtown." That was an interesting comment. Considering then that the Third Ward would be then...what? a block away from "downtown."

What do we consider as Downtown Milwaukee?

I think most people that live in or near downtown consider the Third Ward a seperate neighborhood. Most of it is in a National Hisitoric District and it has a character distinct from the central business district.

To some in the metro area, "downtown" refers to downtown, third ward, brady street and north ave.

I'm just saying that I don't really think that we need to always build tall buildings in the Third Ward, we have the rest of downtown for that. Two stories isn't a total lost opportunity...it would have been taking an office tenant that can now be part of an even taller building somewhere else downtown. The Third Ward needs more retail space...quickly...and that is what this development is providing. The office rents aren't great right now, but the retail rents in the Third Ward are fantastic, over $20/sf.

Downtown or the "Central Business District" is bounded by Juneau on the north, 8th Street on the west, and St. Paul on the south. While the Third Ward originally extended to Wisconsin Ave it is currently viewed as separate from downtown and is south of St. Paul.

I certainly see the Third Ward as a separate entity from downtown. Everything about it is different - architecture, shops, people, businesses, etc. In fact, I'd venture to say that the Third Ward is the most unique neighborhood in all of Milwaukee when compared to other neighborhoods.

Nuclear Art's CBD explaination is pretty spot-on. I live on Prospect and Kane - pretty damn close to downtown but I don't say that I live downtown. I don't even say that I live on the east side... I live on the lower east side.

Neighborhood definitions go a long way when talking about what type of building should go where.

Wow...

Well, I guess from the typical suburban point-of-view Downtown Milwaukee includes everything from the 5th Ward North to Brady St, and from the Lake to Sinai/Marquette.

Huge difference between urban and suburban viewpoints on what's actually "downtown" in the metro area.

Eh, I live on the East Side and I'm still guilty of mislabeling places "downtown" on occasion. However, http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/downtown defines it as "main business section of a city" which is of course, the central business district outlined by Nuclear_Art.

I came across this on the city's development website. (http://www.mkedcd.org/index.html)

Does anyone have any additional info about this?!? :|:|:|:|:|

World Trade Center Wisconsin seeking spot in Milwaukee
Sean Ryan, sean.ryan@dailyreporter.com
Posted December 10, 2007

World Trade Center Wisconsin is talking with developers and city officials about constructing in downtown Milwaukee a building as tall as 30 stories, with offices geared toward international business.

I came across this on the city's development website. (http://www.mkedcd.org/index.html)

Does anyone have any additional info about this?!? :|:|:|:|:|

World Trade Center Wisconsin seeking spot in Milwaukee
Sean Ryan, sean.ryan@dailyreporter.com
Posted December 10, 2007

World Trade Center Wisconsin is talking with developers and city officials about constructing in downtown Milwaukee a building as tall as 30 stories, with offices geared toward international business.

It was mentioned and discussed a few months back in this thread.

It was mentioned and discussed a few months back in this thread.

Aww ok. Nevermind then! :wallbash:

http://graphics.jsonline.com/graphics/bym/img/jan08/zilber2_011508_78.jpg
JS Online: Aloha Green (http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=706911)

The structure, dubbed the "Good Home," cost $2.5 million and was a research and development project of Towne Island Homes, a Zilber company based in Hawaii, spokesman Michael Mervis said.

Some of the knowledge gained in Hawaii will be used in Milwaukee as part of the 21-acre Pabst brewery redevelopment being carried out by another part of the Zilber organization.

The goal in Milwaukee as well as Maui is to make the development as ecologically friendly as possible.

The Maui project was designed by Zilber personnel, who also supervised its construction. The idea was to "take the kinds of thought patterns we used there and apply them to Pabst," Mervis said.

In both places, Zilber hooked up with the United States Green Building Council, which has a LEED program rating system. That is an acronym for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. In Hawaii, the house meets the requirements for a LEED gold rating, the second highest possible. The top platinum rating was out of reach because the house is not well enough integrated in an urban neighborhood to allow for saving of energy on things such as mass transit and nearby shopping.

The Pabst development also is striving for a LEED gold rating, Mervis said.

The MDCD has updated the Downtown Plan (http://www.mkedcd.org/planning/plans/downtown/Update08/DT_Update%20Report_FINAL.pdf) (borders including 94, 43 and Ogden/Lyon/Walnut to the North) for 2008, it included some interesting figures:

Downtown Housing Changes from 2000 to 2007:
- 2,435 housing units added
- Per capita income by household increased by $10,725

Downtown Household Characteristics (2007):
- Total Population = 25,000
- Age 15 to 34 = 55%
- Bachelor Degree or Higher = 45%
- Non Family Households = 80%
- Employees = 78,000
- White Collar Jobs = 77%
- Retail Spending Potential since 2000 = $344 Million

The 19-page updated plan illustrates more detailed changes in Downtown since 2000. It's a good read if you have the chance to look it over.

http://graphics.jsonline.com/graphics/bym/img/jan08/zilber2_011508_78.jpg
JS Online: Aloha Green (http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=706911)

Some of the knowledge gained in Hawaii will be used in Milwaukee as part of the 21-acre Pabst brewery redevelopment being carried out by another part of the Zilber organization.


Interesting although I wonder how useful green building design from Hawaii would be here in Milwaukee. I always find it odd when many new skyscrapers here and in Chicago need to cordon off the sidewalk in the winter because of the danger of falling ice. How hard is it for an architect to design a building to work perfectly for midwest conditions?

BTW, Downtown Plan 2008 Open House at the Muni Bldg on Thursday, 1/17, 5pm.

Interesting although I wonder how useful green building design from Hawaii would be here in Milwaukee.

The sustainable design techniques described in the article are pretty basic and applicable just about anywhere in the world. The Hawaii part is pretty irrelevant; it seems the only reason Hawaii is even mentioned is due to the fact that Zilber is doing "The Brewery" here and did the "Good Home" there (and perhaps as a bit of in-article advertising for the place from the Journal Sentinel, since it hasn't been sold yet...articles about the Brewery being a green project that have appeared in other local publications have not made any mention of Zilber's Hawaii house).

Bioswales capturing runoff, LEED-accredited buildings, recycled building materials, energy-efficient windows...it's all been done here before--just not done on such a wide scale as is being planned for the Pabst site, which is going to be a pilot project for the new "LEED-Neighborhood Neighborhood Development" program.

Sustainability Guidelines for the Brewery (http://www.mkedcd.org/planning/plans/DIZ/Brewery/TheBrewerySustainabilityGuidelines.pdf) being considered by the Dept. of City Development, Common Council, and the developers (PDF file).

Wow...

Well, I guess from the typical suburban point-of-view Downtown Milwaukee includes everything from the 5th Ward North to Brady St, and from the Lake to Sinai/Marquette.

Huge difference between urban and suburban viewpoints on what's actually "downtown" in the metro area.

I think this is a pretty common phenomenon as you move further from the location being discussed. If you live in Milwaukee, you might say "I work downtown" or "I work in the Third Ward." If you live in the suburbs, or if you are talking to someone who doesn't know the city that well, you would probably just say you work downtown, whether it was the CBD or Third Ward. If you live in New Berlin but are talking to someone from out of town or not from Wisconsin, you'd probably say you live and work in Milwaukee, and not even bother naming the suburb.

I was just viewing the Small Business Times video from their "Back to the City Conference." It seemed quite positive from the speakers I listened to--also some very interesting demographics presented by Eppli, Smythe, and Vandewalle. I wonder if anyone was there and what their impressions were.

Here is the link to the conference:
http://www.biztimes.com/site/videos/cre2007

I saw the rendering of the residency on the water and was curious of how many stories it's going to be and how mant square feet.

it will be 14 stories. 10,000 SF of retail on first floor, 120 hotel rooms, 30 condos.

I believe it will actualy fill that entire lot up as so far they are just building the first half of the building...

The building is going up in record time too. Seems every time I drive past there its getting further along. Will be very nice to see the finished product.

I believe it will actualy fill that entire lot up as so far they are just building the first half of the building...

The building will appear to take up the entire lot but will actually be an 'L' shape for condo floors at least, if not the entire building.

Because this is a new type of construction, I really don't KNOW what's going on with the half building thing, but it seems like everything that's being built right now is all a part of the elevator shafts.

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=gGvCdWeR_2fS0V2J3ryekk2Q_3d_3d

To me, it kind of seems in rebuilding Milwaukee they are emphasizing all the water the city has (river, lakefront). I think that this is really a good idea. I am very optimistic. Milwaukee is becoming a more "hip" place to live, and should continue doing so over the next decade or two.

I think the fact that more movies are going to be shot there (especially, I figure, in the beautiful areas downtown) will further help the city.

I hope.

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=gGvCdWeR_2fS0V2J3ryekk2Q_3d_3d

I took the survey and it seemed to me that they were asking the right questions regarding the mix of uses for downtown including retail, office, and residential. Hopefully they are able to discern some valuable information from this survey.

My first post here by the way. I have been a wallflower for some time though.

im surprised no body has mentioned it in awhile, but they have been making some progress with the breakwater project. I drove by the other day and they now have some cranes up there and seem to working on the foundation. I really like the location of this project. It seems like it could fill a gap from the "gold coast" to downtown.

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=gGvCdWeR_2fS0V2J3ryekk2Q_3d_3d

Remember our discussion on "what is downtown?" This survey doesn't specify what they think is downtown... so someone on the lower east side for example might consider themselves downtown or maybe they won't.

It will be easy when compiling the data to ignore that... however it will hurt the integrity of the data that is compiled. Think of all the answers that would be different because of how they decide that first part.

In order to get to the survey, most people will go through their home page, which does have the map below. (It is a link which brings up a larger PDF of the same picture.)

http://www.mkedcd.org/planning/plans/downtown/Update08/mapillus210.jpg

Yeah I saw that after I posted... didn't have the time to correct it. :)

The Fonz is coming!

http://www.jsonline.com/watch/?watch=1&date=1/25/2008&id=34608

I'm glad. Milwaukee is strong enough to have this. There is nothing wrong with celebrating fun.

THe only generation that will appreciate it is already like 70+

I will appreciate it

THe only generation that will appreciate it is already like 70+

You are incorrect. Anybody 45+ can remember watching Happy Days when it was one of the top shows on TV. And since it has been in syndication for years after, pretty much anybody that watches the tube knows about Happy Days and Fonzie. Plus, there are millions of people from around the world that liked the show, especially in Europe.

By the way, I think you revealed your age and genereal naivete with your comment. Oh, and this "older" crowd you refer to? That's called DISPOSABLE INCOME, baby!! If you build it (statue), they will come...and spend money. And, after all, that's what this whole thing is about: to capitalize on the popularity (past and present) of the man -- the Fonz -- who was the star of the hit sitcom, and add a tourist stop. This statue likely won't be a destination for most, but it should provide another reason for visitors (and locals, alike) to go downtown and spend more time (and money) there.

For anyone confusing this with art, lighten up. This is going to be a fun attraction. And you didn't have to pay for it -- unlike when a percentage of our taxes are stripped from our wallets to pay for "art" as a mandatory part of civic building projects. If Milwaukee is so cosmopolitan these (Happy) days,
it is certainly big enough to absorb this statue.

Interesting comment Skyking. Do you not approve of the mandatory art requirement for government buildings, or do you not approve of the way it's carried out? You seem to have a negative tone about it.

You are incorrect. Anybody 45+ can remember watching Happy Days when it was one of the top shows on TV. And since it has been in syndication for years after, pretty much anybody that watches the tube knows about Happy Days and Fonzie. Plus, there are millions of people from around the world that liked the show, especially in Europe.

By the way, I think you revealed your age and genereal naivete with your comment. Oh, and this "older" crowd you refer to? That's called DISPOSABLE INCOME, baby!! If you build it (statue), they will come...and spend money. And, after all, that's what this whole thing is about: to capitalize on the popularity (past and present) of the man -- the Fonz -- who was the star of the hit sitcom, and add a tourist stop. This statue likely won't be a destination for most, but it should provide another reason for visitors (and locals, alike) to go downtown and spend more time (and money) there.

For anyone confusing this with art, lighten up. This is going to be a fun attraction. And you didn't have to pay for it -- unlike when a percentage of our taxes are stripped from our wallets to pay for "art" as a mandatory part of civic building projects. If Milwaukee is so cosmopolitan these (Happy) days,
it is certainly big enough to absorb this statue.

I agree with your cosmopolitanism point. I believe that the statue will work in concert with other features, each appealing to some personal tastes.

BTW: I am 33 and remember watching Happy Days growing up, too. Must've been re-runs!

Oh for Pete's sake, it's only a little statue! Some of you act as though this thing is going to dwarf the statue of liberty. It's not going to bring people to Milwaukee to see it and it isn't going to drive people away either, or make people think anything more or less of the city.

http://cll.bizjournals.com/story_image/108976-120-0.jpg?rev=2
Bucking the Housing Trend (http://milwaukee.bizjournals.com/milwaukee/stories/2008/01/28/story2.html)

A swift downturn in the housing market hasn't stopped million-dollar condos from selling at a brisk pace in the newest luxury tower at Milwaukee's lakefront.

Over the past year, 39 condominiums have been sold at the 53-unit University Club Tower on North Prospect Avenue, with one unit going for $4.8 million, one of the highest prices ever paid for a condo in downtown Milwaukee. In all, 41 condos have sold in the University Club Tower, with seven more under contract, said Phil Aiello, project manager for Mandel Group Inc., which developed the 36-story building.

The average sale price has been $1.85 million. In comparison, the average sale price for a condo in Milwaukee in 2007 was $212,382.

Oh for Pete's sake, it's only a little statue! Some of you act as though this thing is going to dwarf the statue of liberty. It's not going to bring people to Milwaukee to see it and it isn't going to drive people away either, or make people think anything more or less of the city.

Something like this would be awesome:
http://img112.imageshack.us/img112/7728/milwaukeeskylineza3.jpg

I think its a bit goofy putting up a statue of a t.v. character, but oh well. If it helps bring people downtown, I am all for it. If its a hit with tourists, maybe we should build a Laverne & Shirely statue in the Fifth Ward or something.

Something like this would be awesome:
http://img112.imageshack.us/img112/7728/milwaukeeskylineza3.jpg

Hey sweet, thats my picture. Um... minus the statue.

http://cll.bizjournals.com/story_image/108976-120-0.jpg?rev=2
Bucking the Housing Trend (http://milwaukee.bizjournals.com/milwaukee/stories/2008/01/28/story2.html)

A swift downturn in the housing market hasn't stopped million-dollar condos from selling at a brisk pace in the newest luxury tower at Milwaukee's lakefront.

Over the past year, 39 condominiums have been sold at the 53-unit University Club Tower on North Prospect Avenue, with one unit going for $4.8 million, one of the highest prices ever paid for a condo in downtown Milwaukee. In all, 41 condos have sold in the University Club Tower, with seven more under contract, said Phil Aiello, project manager for Mandel Group Inc., which developed the 36-story building.

The average sale price has been $1.85 million. In comparison, the average sale price for a condo in Milwaukee in 2007 was $212,382.

This is good news. It is great to see such great construction as well as people buying. For those retired exec.'s staying I think that also bodes well for the downtown. Keeping retiring boomer talent and money in the urban core will be key in the next 5-10 years.

Just wait until each of the 82' Brewers gets their own statues.

So could someone please let me know... what high rises are currently officially going to get built? It seems like they are all waiting on finding a tenant...

I think downtown Milwaukee COULD forseeably be quite the story over the next 20 years. It would be nice to see a baseball stadium get built htere when Miller Park finally expires 20 years from now. With the River and Lake, its a shame that Milwaukee is still a rather depressed city. It has far more potential for beauty than any other big city in the region.

Also, what is happening with the Chase addition?

RiverView’s residents enjoy facility
New building presents new opportunities
By Marlyn Fink
from UWM post jan 21st


Approximately 400 students moved into the brand spanking new RiverView dorms in Riverwest located at the corner of North Avenue and Commerce Street this past weekend.

The new residents of RiverView will enjoy living in a luxurious and fresh environment that is complete with a Grind coffee shop, which boasts cafe space similar to the Grind located in the Union, a convenience store much like the Emporium in Sandburg, and a cafeteria.

According to Scott Peak, director of University Housing, the cost of living in RiverView is very comparable to the East Tower rates.

“The price difference is due to the cost of building new construction,” Peak said. “All residence hall rates are based on the cost to construct the buildings. Each year the debt payment has to be paid.”

All suites in RiverView are the same with two double dorm rooms and a full bathroom. Each floor has two lounges that offer beautiful views of the Milwaukee River and are equipped with a television, microwave and high-speed Internet access.

RiverView also offers its residents a beautiful outdoor landscaped terrace overlooking the river. Walking and biking trails along the river are just a staircase below the terrace.

Peak believes that residents living in RiverView have a great opportunity to get to know the Milwaukee area.

“The students have easy access to city and Riverwest activities. There are many shops, art galleries and restaurants,” Peak said. “RiverView can also develop its own residence hall community environment.”

Residents will also be offered a very unique option, as classes will be offered within the building. There are three classrooms located in RiverView and they will be used starting with the fall 2008 semester.

“I gave a tour of RiverView to incoming students that stopped by to see the building,” Peak said. “They were excited to move in after they looked at the new residence hall.”



Also from a related UWM article this excerpt....

In an effort to create easy and stress free transportation to all of UWM’s city wide living quarters, University Housing has implemented a free shuttle service that makes only three stops around Milwaukee.

The UWM Campus Library, Kenilworth Square and the new RiverView dorms on North Ave. and Humboldt are the only allocated pick up and drop off points of the shuttle service. All of the University Housing staff, residents and their guests are invited and encouraged to take part in the 24-hour shuttle.

I think downtown Milwaukee COULD forseeably be quite the story over the next 20 years. It would be nice to see a baseball stadium get built htere when Miller Park finally expires 20 years from now.
Where do you propose a MLB stadium go downtown? I agree that a downtown site would be better than the current site. BUT, you've got to have ample surface parking that allows tailgating. That's a Wisconsin tradition that won't go away. That would be a deal-breaker. Another item to consider is the easy freeway access the current site has. Unless something dramatic changes with Milwaukee mass transit by then (I'm not holding my breath), the automobile will still be by far the most popular way to get to the ballpark. Easy freeway access is important to fans who attend the games.

If Milwaukee's downtown success and growth continues and its able to change its nationwide image, I would definitely see it being able to attract a good public transport system, possibly light rail.

I don't know Milwaukee that well, but it would be really awesome if we could build a San-Francisco like park where home runs got hit into Lake Michigan! Everyone watching their team play in Milwaukee would see nothing but "Lake, lake, lake!!!"

Badgers77... your optimism overwhelms me.

Plus I think having a ballpark on the lake would be a great way to find a use for all that beautiful, unique, under utilized green space along the lake. :nuts:

So could someone please let me know... what high rises are currently officially going to get built? It seems like they are all waiting on finding a tenant...

I think downtown Milwaukee COULD forseeably be quite the story over the next 20 years. It would be nice to see a baseball stadium get built htere when Miller Park finally expires 20 years from now. With the River and Lake, its a shame that Milwaukee is still a rather depressed city. It has far more potential for beauty than any other big city in the region.

Also, what is happening with the Chase addition?

20 years!? A new baseball stadium is out of the question in this city for much of the rest of our lifetimes. There is no place for a new stadium on the Lakefront anyway and few suitable locations in downtown for a new stadium.

Milwaukee is not a depressed city at all. Yeah, there are problems in the inner city, but things are looking real good for the downtown area.

I know Milwaukee is not a depressed city, but it has that rep. My downtown ballpark idea was a bit quixotic, but I do think the Brewers will need a new ballpark in 20 years. 30 years is a pretty good lifetime for a baseball stadium these days. If we have good public transport, perhaps light rail, why not bring people downtown?

So long as we don't get caught in a huge depression, I could see Milwaukee being a pretty decent tourist city 30 years from now. If its able to get some of its things together or improve them (public schools, racial inequality, etc), and also improve river development and so on... Milwaukee would offer its own very unique experience, especially during the warm months. Its proximity to Chicago is only going to help it in the long run, especially if (dreaming a little bit) public transport ever becomes popular again and we establish a highly dependable high-speed rail service between the two cities.

As for more short term, I think the office towers we dream of will start with people moving downtown, which is happening. When it becomes evident that the downtown is seeing a revival, more companies will start to stay/move downtown, establishing themselves in new office towers.

I just wonder what kind of "architectural style" Milwaukee should give itself. Am I thinking too far ahead? Also, sorry for asking too many questions, but are there a good number of lofts/old factory buildings along the river that can still be fixed up? Those renovated buildings along the water are just beautiful.

I know Milwaukee is not a depressed city, but it has that rep. My downtown ballpark idea was a bit quixotic, but I do think the Brewers will need a new ballpark in 20 years. 30 years is a pretty good lifetime for a baseball stadium these days. If we have good public transport, perhaps light rail, why not bring people downtown?

So long as we don't get caught in a huge depression, I could see Milwaukee being a pretty decent tourist city 30 years from now. If its able to get some of its things together or improve them (public schools, racial inequality, etc), and also improve river development and so on... Milwaukee would offer its own very unique experience, especially during the warm months. Its proximity to Chicago is only going to help it in the long run, especially if (dreaming a little bit) public transport ever becomes popular again and we establish a highly dependable high-speed rail service between the two cities.

As for more short term, I think the office towers we dream of will start with people moving downtown, which is happening. When it becomes evident that the downtown is seeing a revival, more companies will start to stay/move downtown, establishing themselves in new office towers.

I just wonder what kind of "architectural style" Milwaukee should give itself. Am I thinking too far ahead? Also, sorry for asking too many questions, but are there a good number of lofts/old factory buildings along the river that can still be fixed up? Those renovated buildings along the water are just beautiful.

If I didn't know better, I could have guessed that this post was written 5 or 6 years ago. I invite you to come to Milwaukee and spend some time. It's great that you have a positive vision of Milwaukee's future... but you don't seem to have an accurate contemporary view of the city.

To answer your question, much of the river has been developed or is in the process now. The few areas left to be developed are pretty much on the far north and south ends.

I admittedly don't get to Milwaukee enough, especially during the winter. What is the "accurate contemporary view of the city" to you, if I might ask?

Well, as long as Milwaukee keeps ignoring Chicago as a major factor...it won't go anywhere. If that changes - watch Milwaukee boom with delight.

It seems that Milwaukeeians have a more negative viewpoint on the city (and metro area) then let's say...outsiders?

Attitude is a problem state wide as well! Instead of being jealous of our neighbors and their neighboring largest cities. Maybe we should do a better job of making sure our cities are doing better then this state would be in better shape.

$75 million plan offered for downtown site
A proposed $75 million development at N. 6th and W. State streets that would include student housing, offices, retail space and a parking ramp won preliminary endorsement today from a Milwaukee County Board committee.

The "Civic Center" project was backed by the board's Economic and Community Development Committee on a 7-0 vote. It would sit on prime county-owned land now used as a parking lot that's close to the courthouse, Milwaukee Area Technical College, the Milwaukee Theatre and the Midwest Airlines Center.

The New Vision Development Co. would get an option of up to one year to buy the 1.89-acre property for $3.1 million, if the County Board approves the deal Feb. 7.

The development calls for a seven-story residential apartment tower aimed at students. Its proximity to MATC, Marquette University, Milwaukee School of Engineering and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee should attract plenty of tenants, project spokesman Steven Stewart said. The tower, housing 450 students, would be built on the north side of the site, Stewart said. A second tower on the south side of the site might be added later, he said.

Stewart said the apartments would be affordable for students, but he did not say how much the rent would be.

Other features of the project include a 600-stall parking ramp, 50,000 square feet of retail space and an "academic tower" with 58,000 square feet of space for offices, classrooms and laboratories that could be leased by MATC, Stewart said. Spokesmen for New Vision Developers said they hoped to lease 25% of the space in the complex to MATC, but acknowledged they had not yet secured a commitment for that.

An MATC spokesman wasn't immediately available for comment.

The ground floor would include a sit-down restaurant, coffee shop, bank and other retail, according to the project proposal.




Nice! Get rid of another parking lot!

Excellent! ^ That part of downtown is severely lacking in resturants and retail.

450 new residents will also give downtown a shot in the arm.

I know Milwaukee is not a depressed city, but it has that rep. My downtown ballpark idea was a bit quixotic, but I do think the Brewers will need a new ballpark in 20 years. 30 years is a pretty good lifetime for a baseball stadium these days. If we have good public transport, perhaps light rail, why not bring people downtown?

30 years is still a bit short of a lifetime for a stadium like Miller Park. And as said, downtown is out of the question. Tailgating is a Milwaukee Brewer tradition, perhaps moreso than any other baseball team in the country.

It sounds cool having a stadium downtown, but I would rather space down there be used for housing, retail, resturants, etc. then some huge structure that would be lifeless for much of the year.

So long as we don't get caught in a huge depression, I could see Milwaukee being a pretty decent tourist city 30 years from now. If its able to get some of its things together or improve them (public schools, racial inequality, etc), and also improve river development and so on... Milwaukee would offer its own very unique experience, especially during the warm months. Its proximity to Chicago is only going to help it in the long run, especially if (dreaming a little bit) public transport ever becomes popular again and we establish a highly dependable high-speed rail service between the two cities.

I dont know about Milwaukee being a tourist city. I just dont see it happening. I reckon we will always be overlooked in the U.S.


I just wonder what kind of "architectural style" Milwaukee should give itself. Am I thinking too far ahead? Also, sorry for asking too many questions, but are there a good number of lofts/old factory buildings along the river that can still be fixed up? Those renovated buildings along the water are just beautiful.

Not really anymore areas on the river. Much of it is already developed or being redeveloped.

I can see it being somewhat a tourist city, at least regionally. If it gentrifies and starts getting a higher-tech economy (which is completely feasible), then the downtown would be one of the most beautiful downtowns in the country. I suppose we wouldn't get people from the coasts, though. We'd be more like Minneapolis.

Excellent! ^ That part of downtown is severely lacking in resturants and retail.

450 new residents will also give downtown a shot in the arm.

Yes...and no. If these were residents with disposable income, but 450 college kids will most likely provide a boon to bars and sandwich shops -- which isn't all bad. But I'm not sure how many of the students are candidates for the upscale pubs and eateries. Nonetheless, it's good to have people living downtown and spending money -- no matter where it is.

While this plan is certainly better than nothing (like a surface parking lot!), I'm disappointed that a multi-use building, including hotel rooms, couldn't have been put on this site considering the prime location adjacent to the convention center and arenas. This has been such a potentially-hot site for years given its key location. So, I'm not gaga over the idea of a glorified dorm going up there.

Yes...and no. If these were residents with disposable income, but 450 college kids will most likely provide a boon to bars and sandwich shops -- which isn't all bad. But I'm not sure how many of the students are candidates for the upscale pubs and eateries.

Yup, it's all those upscale pubs & eateries that keeps Madison's State Street humming, not those lousy cheap Asian & other ethnic restaurants and ubiquitous coffee shops that only the income-challenged have to put up with.

While this plan is certainly better than nothing (like a surface parking lot!), I'm disappointed that a multi-use building, including hotel rooms, couldn't have been put on this site considering the prime location adjacent to the convention center and arenas. This has been such a potentially-hot site for years given its key location.

Maybe not so hot or prime to actual developers.

450 college students... living in downtown. If developers play their cards right, they can probably attract a lot of them to live downtown after they graduate.

I can see it being somewhat a tourist city, at least regionally. If it gentrifies and starts getting a higher-tech economy (which is completely feasible), then the downtown would be one of the most beautiful downtowns in the country. I suppose we wouldn't get people from the coasts, though. We'd be more like Minneapolis.

Yeah, I think Milwaukee could easily have one of the best downtowns in the country. However, will people want to visit it? The problem with Milwaukee is that we dont have a Mall of America, Liberty Bell, French Quarter, or a mountain backdrop. The Harley museum will be a great addition to the city, but it only brings in a niche crowd.

Milwaukee by itself as a solo destination is pretty ridiculous. Our best bet is to think regionally and advertise the city as an easy day trip from Chicago.

Yes...and no. If these were residents with disposable income, but 450 college kids will most likely provide a boon to bars and sandwich shops -- which isn't all bad. But I'm not sure how many of the students are candidates for the upscale pubs and eateries. Nonetheless, it's good to have people living downtown and spending money -- no matter where it is.

While this plan is certainly better than nothing (like a surface parking lot!), I'm disappointed that a multi-use building, including hotel rooms, couldn't have been put on this site considering the prime location adjacent to the convention center and arenas. This has been such a potentially-hot site for years given its key location. So, I'm not gaga over the idea of a glorified dorm going up there.

Its all well and nice, but downtown Milwaukee will need more than just empty nesters and yuppies. College students and young people bring alot to the table. They will add to the nightlife and make downtown more vibrant--and god knows that part of downtown needs it. State St. was a good example.

I don't even get the Mall of America anyway. I've been there and its worthless. Woo, 19 starbucks and 3 hot topics... that was worth the airfare...

If I didn't know better, I could have guessed that this post was written 5 or 6 years ago.

I just read the last couple of pages and I was thinking the same thing, especially the comments on college students. This building proposal wouldn't have a huge effect on a downtown college-population already including Marquette, MSOE, MIAD, Aveda and even a little UWM.

I just moved out of downtown last summer after I graduated, and I had a lot of friends that did, or currently do live there as well.

Something like this would be awesome:
http://img112.imageshack.us/img112/7728/milwaukeeskylineza3.jpg

See, that's what I'm talkin about man LOL!!!

I think its a bit goofy putting up a statue of a t.v. character, but oh well. If it helps bring people downtown, I am all for it. If its a hit with tourists, maybe we should build a Laverne & Shirely statue in the Fifth Ward or something.
IT'S NOT GOING TO BE THE STATUE OF LIBERTY! IT'S NOT EVEN GOING TO BE AS BIG OR PRESTIGEOUS AS THE RELICA IN PARIS. You are probably going to be taller than it.

And yes, I am yelling!

Just wait until each of the 82' Brewers gets their own statues.
The current statues and the statues that will come in the future are at least twice as big as the Fonze statue being proposed.

Fonze haters, get over it!:)

The current statues and the statues that will come in the future are at least twice as big as the Fonze statue being proposed.

Fonze haters, get over it!:)

Never. Not until the thing comes crumbling down in a revolution. I reserve my American right to simply hate the thing on principle. :)

Why not some statues of our former mayors, or any REAL citizens of Milwaukee. That would be cool.

As far as Milwaukee being a tourist city or not I can tell you last night I met this couple that drove up from Chicago so they could smoke while at the bar!

So is a seven-story tower ok to put there. The developer could not try to go higher. Sometimes developers in this city don't try hard enough.

As far as Milwaukee being a tourist city or not I can tell you last night I met this couple that drove up from Chicago so they could smoke while at the bar!

That is so pathetic and unfortunate

That is so pathetic and unfortunate

Pathetic for Chicago... Great for us!!

Something like this would be awesome:
http://img112.imageshack.us/img112/7728/milwaukeeskylineza3.jpg

God, it's another Colossus of Rhodes...

As far as Milwaukee being a tourist city or not I can tell you last night I met this couple that drove up from Chicago so they could smoke while at the bar!

Two, that's just odd and sad at the same time.

They could have smoked an entire pack of cigs in their car just driving up here!

IT'S NOT GOING TO BE THE STATUE OF LIBERTY! IT'S NOT EVEN GOING TO BE AS BIG OR PRESTIGEOUS AS THE RELICA IN PARIS. You are probably going to be taller than it.

And yes, I am yelling!

Oh, I know but I am just reacting to the city honoring a t.v. character. Like I said, its great if can bring these goofballs downtown to see it. But cmon. Im not trying to sound like some arrogant jackass, but these things just reinforce how Milwaukee is viewed by outsiders. That all we are about is beer and old t.v. shows that never even filmed here outside the opening credits.

I dont even understand what kind of people would drive all the way to Milwaukee to see this anyway. I like the Fresh Prince of Bel Air and grew up watching it. I wouldnt go out of my way to see a bronze statue of Carleton or Uncle Phil. I wouldnt go out of my way to see a Tony Soprano statue or a Tim 'Toolman' Taylor in Detroit.