New Land Enterprises

City Plan Commission Approves Zoning for 20-story Building

Resolution 071500 would change the zoning for the properties located at 700 East Kibourn Ave. and 711 East Kibourn Ave. to General Planned Development and would specify the maximum height and density of the project. As reported earlier New Land Enterprises intends to build two mixed-use buildings with up to 20-stories and 230 residential units each. Despite the project being in the neighborhood of Yankee Hill, Juneau Village Towers, The Regency, University Club and Kilbourn Tower a handful of neighbors expressed their belief that a 20-story building wasn’t consistent with the neighborhood Alderman Bauman spoke briefly on the project saying that he “enthusiastically supports this project” and went on to indicate the proposed buildings fit the neighborhood. This resolution was approved by the commission and will now go before Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee for approval. Resolution 071176 proposed the vacation of the eastbound right-hand turn lane from East Pittsburgh Ave to South Water Street. The removal of the turn lane would support the mixed-use development of the adjacent property by improving access to the site for a potential retail tenant. This resolution was approved by the commission and will now go before Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee for approval.

Apr 2nd, 2008 by Dave Reid

Two 20-story buildings proposed in East Town

New Land Enterprises is proposing to build two 20-story mixed-use buildings on properties near Kilbourn Ave and Van Buren St. Specifically, last year New Land Enterprises purchased the Edwardo’s Pizza property at 700 E. Kilbourn Ave. as well as the vacant lot across Kilbourn Ave. A portion of the lot across Kilbourn Ave. has been developed into Terrace Row Condominiums while the remain portion awaits this development to be utilized. Renderings of this project currently displayed on Workshop Architects’ website portray shorter buildings indicating the final design is still very much in flux. Although these renderings are still a work in progress they emphasize the projects potential to increase population density and rebuild the urban fabric. Articles Developer scoffs at condo competition Twin towers planned for downtown Milwaukee New Land planning downtown high rise (scroll down) The site location is pictured below via Google Maps Street View. View Larger Map

Mar 8th, 2008 by Dave Reid

Terrace Row Condominiums Construction Nears Completion

Construction of the Terrace Row Condominiums at the intersection of Kilbourn Ave and Cass St appears to be near completion. Workshop Architects’ design utilizes styles of the current day and although very unique for the neighborhood adds to the urban fabric. Building on what was a vacant lot the project appropriately brings the units to sidewalks edge and does a adequate job in hiding the parking. Specifically the project utilizes a narrow alley behind the new structure to allow for access to the garages. Although, the first floor is a somewhat bleak the design includes street facing windows as well as pedestrian access and once landscaping is added it should improve the appearance. Further large windows on both the second and third floor allow for additional “eyes on the street” adding to the security of the neighborhood. Now that construction is near completion it is possible to see how the architect was attempting to fit the urban environment within the constraints of the project requirements. The project includes four units that run in price from $1.25 million to $1.35 million and have extensive list of features. Specifically each unit will have a private roof terrace, private elevator, wood-burning fireplace, private balcony and at least a two car garage. Despite the solid design and long list of features according to the projects website none of the units have been sold. The success or failure of this project financially and the success or failure of this project architecturally are separate issues as the building is succeeding architecturally by addressing the street, hiding parking, and allowing for privacy.

Feb 25th, 2008 by Dave Reid

Contentious Downer Ave. Parking Garage Rises

New Land Enterprises‘ $55 million Downer Ave. development project is going up quickly despite pending legal action. The first phase consists of a parking garage, designed by Scott Kindness of Workshop Architects, that includes first floor retail and has undergone numerous redesigns in an attempt to better fit the neighborhood. Despite the changes some neighbors felt these concessions didn’t go far enough and filed a lawsuit against the City of Milwaukee and DAPL LLC seeking to stop construction . The results of today’s hearing is unknown at press time but it is seems New Land Enterprises and the City of Milwaukee believe this case will be dismissed as development has moved ahead at a brisk pace. Despite the contentious nature of the project the overall goal of adding density and new business to the Downer Ave. district should have the long run impact of bringing vibrancy and business back to this urban commercial district. UPDATE A second hearing will be held on 2/1/2008. Additionally the judge felt there was some wrong doing on the City’s part though as of yet didn’t issue an injunction that would of stopped construction. More details can be found in the jsonline article. Related Links Historic Preservation Commission Meeting – Monday, May 14, 2007 Resolution 061440

Jan 16th, 2008 by Dave Reid

Alderman Michael D’Amato not running for re-election

During his 12 years in office Alderman Michael D’Amato played a large role in encouraging new development in Milwaukee. More recently in his role as Chairman of the Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee he oversaw countless proposals, and more often than not was supportive of development projects. During this past year he struggled with Eastside residents to over approval of New Land Enterprise’s Downer Ave. development and although the project is moving forward, the city is now being sued. And at the same time he pushed policy and the Department of City Development in a failed attempt at obtaining a TIF to help fund RSC & Associates proposed Park East development. Despite what was probably a frustrating year for Alderman Michael D’Amato, the news he won’t be running for re-election comes as a surprise. Without knowing D’Amato’s future plans or his reasons for not running again it, is still safe to say it will be difficult to replace his experience and dedication.

Nov 27th, 2007 by Dave Reid

Photo Gallery

Downer Ave. Development Breaks Ground

The controversial Downer Ave area development that includes an 11-story high rise hotel/condo building and a parking garage on Downer Ave has finally broken ground. The neighborhood was polarized on this issue and certain residents were outraged to say the least but overall this is a good development for the area. The added foot traffic that the new medical offices, hotel guests and condo residents will bring should bring needed vitality back to the street. Further the renovations of the historic buildings are long over due and the work already done looks great. To follow what’s going on I’ve started a flickr set, Downer Ave. New Land Enterprise Development, that I will update with new pictures to keep track of the progress. Related Articles New tenants signed to Downer Ave. project A round peg sometimes does fit in a square hole New Land Enterprises reveals possible future plans for Downer Avenue

Sep 25th, 2007 by Dave Reid

The Roundup