We attempted to create a map of all the skywalk connections in Milwaukee, including the longest line that runs through The Shops of Grand Avenue.

While from an urbanist’s perspective we still would prefer you choose the sidewalk, here’s a map for those of you looking for other connections. Next up is mapping the empty retail spaces that are on roads paralleling a skywalk route.

View Larger Map

In a rare move, the city is going to provide Compass Properties LLC with $3.2 million to repair their two Water Street properties immediately north of the 100 East Wisconsin building. Compass Properties owns 731 N. Water Street, which has been vacant forever, and 735 N. Water Street, both of which were at one point part of First Wisconsin Bank during its heyday. The money will be spent primarily on repairing the adjacent RiverWalk section and the cornice of the 735 building, as Compass works to redevelop the properties.

The move is not without disagreement though, amongst a Common Council and Mayor that have long taken a stance opposed to any city money for private projects.

“We’re setting a very dangerous precedent,” said Ald. Michael Murphy, one of two aldermen who opposed the financing plan.

I know at one time there was talk that the skywalk system would stretch into these buildings with the rennovations and I think that would be a positive for Milwaukee. I’m not sure if that is still part of the plan, but it would be a boost to the system. As I walked through the 100 East Wisconsin portion of the system last weekend I was amazed at how every unit is empty. Any expansion of the system that brings in more foot traffic would be a positive for the other businesses on the system.

The Journal Sentinel reports…

The Courtyard by Marriott hotel in downtown Milwaukee has been sold for $26.1 million to a group of investors led by a Los Angeles-area firm, according to documents filed Thursday with the Milwaukee County register of deeds. Read more.

Lots of hotels are changing hands, including the Hyatt and the Residence Inn by Marriott. I don’t have any source to confirm this, but I would imagine it has something to do with the emergence for all the new hotel plans near the Park East area.