Content referencing East Side - Page 3
HSI/WiRED Properties Proposal Picked for East Library
The Milwaukee Public Library Board of Trustee’s Building and Development Committee met at the East Library on Wednesday night to hear final proposals from the three respondents to the East Library Redevelopment RFP. Following a closed session for deliberations, the Building and Development Committee voted to move the proposal from HSI Properties forward to the full Library Board.
Nov 10th, 2011 by Jeramey Jannene
Mixed-Use East Library Proposals Meet the Neighbors
Wednesday night, Alderman Nik Kovac held a public meeting to allow feedback to be voiced regarding the three proposed alternatives for the redevelopment of the one-story East Library into a mixed-use facility. The meeting was a follow-up to a meeting last November discussing the potential of issuing a request-for-proposal (RFP) for the redevelopment of the East Library site. Attendees at the meeting were provided with an update on the process and allowed to ask questions about the process and proposals. The predictable East Side public meeting questions were aired, but which, if any, of the proposals will be selected?
Sep 15th, 2011 by Jeramey Jannene
Cafe Hollander Opens Milwaukee’s Third On-street Bike Corral
Last week marked the installation of another on-street bike corral in Milwaukee. The newest on-street bike corral is located at Cafe Hollander on Milwaukee's East Side.
Aug 2nd, 2011 by Dave Reid
The Nomad is Home to Milwaukee’s Second On-Street Bike Corral
Portland has 67 on-street bike corrals while Milwaukee now has just two. With the latest being installed this past week at the Nomad on the Lower East Side. The Nomad's new bike corral is located in an used space along Warren St., and just as Alterra's on-street bike corral removed no regular automobile parking spots, none were removed to install these racks.
Jul 18th, 2011 by Dave Reid
Alterra Opens Milwaukee’s First On-Street Bike Corral
Cities such as Portland, San Francisco, Seattle, and Minneapolis have install on-street bike parking in recent years, and now you can add Milwaukee to the list.
May 7th, 2011 by Dave Reid
Storefront Design Updates
Two small projects, one in East Town and the other on the East Side, are currently taking an existing poor design situation and attempting to activate the street through new designs.
Apr 11th, 2011 by Dave Reid
UWM Should End the Parking Subsidy
Having an educated populace is good for society, it increases the earning of all workers, it helps to generate wealth and fuels innovation. Subsidized parking doesn't.
Mar 10th, 2011 by Dave Reid
Gallun Tannery Site Presents Opportunity and Challenges
Milwaukee is in the process of losing a historic landmark, the remaining tannery buildings of the former A.F. Gallun & Sons Company tannery are being demolished on the city's Lower East Side. The buildings once housed one of the city's many tanning businesses, but in a few weeks all that will remain is the redeveloped office building on the south side of North Water Street.
Jan 26th, 2011 by Jeramey Jannene
Marriott Approved. Greenwich Park Apartments Approved
Two controversial development projects received key approvals at the January 19th, 2011 meeting of the Common Council.
Jan 20th, 2011 by Dave Reid
Alterra to Introduce On-Street Bike Parking to Milwaukee (Renderings)
Back on Park(ING) Day we wrote about the possibility of on-street bike corrals, and how small changes to the built environment can help make for a better, more interesting Milwaukee. But to create those small changes we need the City of Milwaukee and local businesses to work together to get things rolling.
Jan 19th, 2011 by Dave Reid
Greenwich Park Apartments Zoning Change Approved by Committee
Mercy Housing Lakefront's $8.5 million Greenwich Park Apartments project received approval at the January 11th, 2011 meeting of the Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee.
Jan 12th, 2011 by Dave Reid
Mercy Housing’s East Side Proposal is Recommended for Approval by City Plan Commission
Mercy Housing Lakefront's Greenwich Park Apartments proposal was recommended for approval at the December 6th, 2010 meeting of the City Plan Commission.
Dec 6th, 2010 by Dave Reid
How Urban are Marquette, MIAD, MSOE, and UWM?
Milwaukee is lucky to have a number of higher education institutions in its most urban neighborhoods.
Nov 30th, 2010 by Jeramey Jannene
Mercy Housing Lakefront Presents Updated Design to East Side Residents (Renderings)
At last night's East Side town hall meeting Mercy Housing Lakefront presented a further refined design for an $8.5 million apartment building to be constructed at the corner of N. Farwell Ave. and Thomas St. on Milwaukee's East Side.
Nov 17th, 2010 by Dave Reid
A Mixed-Use Library to Replace the East Library?
Alderman Nik Kovac, whose district includes the East Library on 1910 E. North Avenue, held a public meeting on November 11th to solicit feedback on the proposal of converting the one-story, single-use library into a mixed-use building.The meeting, which was held at the East Library meeting room, attracted a standing-room only crowd, and included representatives from the Library Board (of which Kovac is a member), the Department of City Development, and the Mayor's office
Nov 14th, 2010 by Jeramey Jannene
Car-sharing in Milwaukee…
Car-sharing offers people the ability to rent a car or truck, often a hybrid, for a time period less than a day, and for an affordable amount that includes insurance and fuel.
Nov 3rd, 2010 by Dave Reid
Mercy Housing Lakefront Updates Design for East Side Proposal (Renderings)
Mercy Housing Lakefront Inc. presented an updated design for a nine-story LEED certified affordable housing apartment building to the Greenwich Village Neighborhood Association.
Oct 12th, 2010 by Dave Reid
Coming to the East Side – More Residents and Customers
Milwaukee's East Side residents and business owners are likely to see the results of such infill development over the course of the next year as a number of new buildings open.
Jul 30th, 2010 by Jeramey Jannene
It’s 11 p.m., Clear The Street
The party is cut off abruptly at 11 p.m. so the street can be opened for traffic.
Jul 26th, 2010 by Jeramey Jannene
Cambridge Commons Tour
In August UW-Milwaukee will begin occupying Cambridge Commons, their new 700-bed residence hall. Owned by the UWM Real Estate Foundation and developed by the Mandel Group, the near-complete residence hall raises the bar for Milwaukee student housing when it comes to quality and ecological sustainability.
Jul 15th, 2010 by Jeramey Jannene
Surface Parking Lots are a Priority to be Developed
Surface lots damage the fabric of the city by creating gaps and dead spaces that are uncomfortable to the pedestrian.
Apr 6th, 2010 by Dave Reid
Neighborhood Group Says No to Mercy Housing Lakefront’s East Side Development
Wednesday night the Greenwich Village Neighborhood Association held a meeting to discuss Mercy Housing Lakefront's East Side apartment proposal.
Mar 14th, 2010 by Dave Reid
Bring the Panthers Back to Campus
There's often talk regarding whether UWM is a commuter campus or not, and although it still has numerous commuter students UWM has been evolving into a full blown campus environment for years. This change has stirred up East Side residents and put a greater demand on the neighborhood, but Milwaukee's future is closely tied to UWM's future so this evolution needs to be embraced, not challenged.
Mar 10th, 2010 by Dave Reid
Mercy Housing Lakefront Inc. Proposes East Side Apartment Building
Mercy Housing Lakefront, Inc., intends to construct a 9-story apartment building with 75 apartments and eight townhouses on the existing 13,400 square foot city owned surface parking lot at the corner of N. Farwell Ave. and Thomas St.
Mar 8th, 2010 by Dave Reid
What a View!
Ever wondered what it would be like to be up in a tower crane? Just what kind of view you would get from up there?
Jan 27th, 2010 by Dave Reid
The Pizza Man Fallout
What you probably haven't given much thought to yet is what will occupy that iconic corner.
Jan 26th, 2010 by Jeramey Jannene
New East Side Apartment Proposal
At Monday's City Plan Commission meeting, Wangard Parnters Inc. will be requesting an amendment to the Detailed Planned Development known as HighBridge Condominiums, with the intent of moving the project forward, now redesigned as apartments and renamed as Metro Place.
Jan 20th, 2010 by Dave Reid
Ban Sticker Advertisements on Cars
Undoubtedly if you've walked around the East Side of Milwaukee for an extended period of time you've encountered a "Part Time Cash" sticker on the window of a car, or laying next to the curb. And therein lies the problem.
Nov 24th, 2009 by Jeramey Jannene
UWM’s Expansion Must Include Former Columbia Hospital Site
Although, we have been critical of UWM's efforts to expand in Wauwatosa, we have always believed that UWM's growth is critical to Milwaukee.
Nov 18th, 2009 by Dave Reid
St. Johns on the Lake Under Construction
On October 15th, Saint John's on the Lake broke ground on "The Expansion", a new 21-story, $83 million tower along Prospect Avenue.
Oct 26th, 2009 by Jeramey Jannene
Apartment Development is Strong in Milwaukee
Regardless of what neighborhood it is, the development of new apartments is a growing trend in Milwaukee. Currently there are two prominent projects vying for City of Milwaukee financial support in one form or another, the Bookends and The Moderne. Outside of the two proposed towers there are numerous other projects at various stages around urban Milwaukee.
Oct 22nd, 2009 by Jeramey Jannene
Madison’s Ride the Drive… Milwaukee’s Bike Brady?
Milwaukee should have its own Ciclovia.
Sep 2nd, 2009 by Dave Reid
Can’t Beat Milwaukee in the Summer
Normally we would greet you on Monday with an urban advocacy piece, but we were a little too busy enjoying all that urban Milwaukee had to offer this weekend. While normally just one of these events would pass as a big entertainment attraction across every other Wisconsin city, urban Milwaukee had at least eight organized and noteworthy events going on this weekend.
Jul 27th, 2009 by Jeramey Jannene
Dorm-Oriented Development (The Future of Urban Shopping Centers?)
There might be a new development style taking hold in Milwaukee. A lot of focus is put on transit-oriented development, and the power of a station to improve the development of a neighborhood, but what about residence halls? Do they offer similar development when built in an urban setting? At least in one part of Milwaukee's East Side neighborhood, it appears so.
Jul 16th, 2009 by Jeramey Jannene
Where Do All The Cars Fit?
All the cars fit downtown on Suburbs Day, why can't they fit any other day?
Jul 7th, 2009 by Jeramey Jannene
Growth is Good. Let’s Keep it Going
Good news. The City of Milwaukee has been growing over the past decade, albeit slowly, but this recent trend is better than the decades long slide from a high point of 741,324 in 1960 to a recent low below 596,974 in 2000. Since 2000 Milwaukee has seen a small, but significant increase to 604,477 residents. Yes, a growth rate of just 1.3%, but it is a start.
Jul 5th, 2009 by Dave Reid
Close the Libraries? Lease the Water Works?
Massive layoffs, extended furloughs, service cuts, significant tax and fee increases all are possibilities in the next year for the City of Milwaukee. I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but with the gap in the pension fund, a decline in the assessed value of property in the city, and a likely decline in state shared revenue the fiscal picture for the City of Milwaukee doesn't look so bright. At today's Common Council meeting the debate around a snow and ice fee increase and the furloughing of city employees were brought about by this startling economic outlook for the City of Milwaukee.
Jun 16th, 2009 by Dave Reid
Milwaukee Police District Boundaries Redrawn – Will Affect New UWM Dorm
Milwaukee Police Chief Edward Flynn has had his new police district boundaries approved by the Common Council Public Safety Committee. The new boundaries will have the most significant effects on the East and South sides of Milwaukee.
Jun 5th, 2009 by Jeramey Jannene
Huh? Timeout. Explanation Needed.
As the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors barrel ahead towards Thursday's vote on the Milwaukee County Ground land sale to the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
May 19th, 2009 by Dave Reid
Downer Avenue Development Project Heats Up Again
This past Monday night a public meeting was held to discuss possible streetscape improvements to Downer Avenue.
May 6th, 2009 by Dave Reid
Lower East Side Grocery Store To Open
John and Anne Nehring will open Nehring Family Marketplace in a building owned by New Land Enterprises at the intersection of Brady and Water Streets.
Apr 26th, 2009 by Jeramey Jannene
Milwaukee Riverkeeper’s Spring River Cleanup
If you’re going to go out and enjoy a walk along any of Milwaukee’s rivers, now may be the team to do it. This past Saturday approximately 3,000 volunteers, myself included, descended upon Milwaukee’s river beds to clean up everything we could. This was the second year I had participated in the event, and I elected to work at the North Avenue/Hometown site again this year. Our group of 49 aimed to clean the east Milwaukee River bank from the former North Avenue Dam to just south of Locust Street. Walking under the bridge for the first time is always a reality check, especially this year, where it appeared seven individuals had made been living there It will be interesting to observe how the new UWM dorm on the Hometown site will affect the number of homeless individuals living under the bridge next year (and the amount of garbage). One would assume it would have the affect of reducing the number living there, and also reducing the amount of garbage. Unfortunately this doesn’t solve the obvious issue, that there are too few beds for the less fortunate in our community. Other sites, as the Journal Sentinel story indicates, aren’t about cleaning up the land around the river, but cleaning out the actual river itself. It appears sites along the Menomonee and Kinnickinnic Rivers are hotbeds for shopping carts and other non-natural things to inhabit the rivers. If you have a chance to next year, participate in the 2009 river cleanup. It’s a great opportunity to volunteer, as your hard work is immediately visible.
Apr 22nd, 2009 by Jeramey Jannene
Commission Approves Change to MPS Property Sale Process
The first was a step in the formal process of Milwaukee Public Schools (“MPS”) selling properties that have been deemed surplus to their needs. Specifically, MPS is moving forward on three properties, the Delaware Service Center, Clairmont, and the Happy Hill Elementary School. Unlike other properties held by the City of Milwaukee when MPS is involved the process involves hiring an outside brokerage firm and legal aide to facilitate the process. Additionally, unlike other City of Milwaukee land sales these sales will prohibit a private schools that participates in the parental choice program from purchasing the property, and prohibits a tax free use of the property unless a PILOTS is created. This file was approved and will now go before the Public Works Committee. The other item of interest was the proposed rehabilitation of Highbridge condominium building envelop. This rehabilitation has become needed because of several failures in the construction that has lead to extensive leaking throughout the building. The brick on the upper floors will be clad over with EIFS to create a new weather barrier, and new windows will be installed throughout the building. Kelly Thompson, the architect from Facility Engineering, who was hired to render repairs to mitigate these failures stated his desire to insure the rehabilitated building doesn’t take away from the neighborhood by saying “we really don’t want it to look like the Hampton Inn out on the west side of town.” This file was approved and will now go before the Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee.
Mar 31st, 2009 by Dave Reid
You’ll Never Drive Drunk If…
St. Patrick's Day is always one of my favorite days of the year, though often the day after is one of my least favorite, because everybody comes out and has a good time.
Mar 19th, 2009 by Dave Reid
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee or University of Milwaukee?
A group of University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Student Association Senators will be proposing a bill to consider changing the university's name from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee to the University of Milwaukee.
Mar 16th, 2009 by Dave Reid
Neighborhood Group Pushes Chapter 17
Although only a few development projects were on this commission meeting’s agenda the most insightful item was the presentation of the UWM Neighborhood Plan by the Universities Neighborhoods Association (UNA). Jeffrey Jordan presented the groups findings and laid out a few neighborhood issues. The group wants UWM to acknowledge that the “sudden growth of the university” has lead to problems such as overcrowding of the neighborhood. He also stated their desire to see the implementation of Chapter 17 which would penalizes students at UWM for off campus problems. Additionally, UNA wants future dorms to be planned with the neighbors and clearly doesn’t want to see dorms built at the Columbia Hospital site. Alderman Nik Kovac spoke about UWM”s master planning program and stated that UWM’s plan to expand in Wauwatosa was a “terrible idea”. This update showed the ongoing difficulty of relations on the East Side between UWM and the neighborhood and also highlighted the City of Milwaukee’s efforts to encourage UWM to expand in downtown Milwaukee.
Feb 20th, 2009 by Dave Reid
Milwaukee’s Stimulus Request
Yesterday the U.S. Senate approved the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 and although it still has conference committee changes to go through prior to arriving on President Obama's desk it's interesting to see what items the City of Milwaukee would like to see funded.
Feb 11th, 2009 by Dave Reid
Historic Preservation is a Good Thing
Historic preservation is a good thing, when for example it is used to restore City Hall or re-purpose the Grain Exchange because it adds value to Milwaukee.
Feb 9th, 2009 by Dave Reid
Who Lives in Milwaukee’s Condos?
The UWM Center for Urban Initiatives and Research (CUIR) undertook the first comprehensive study on Milwaukee's "condo boom" to understand who was actually living in the condos stretching from the northern part of Walker's Point up to North Avenue on the East Side.
Feb 5th, 2009 by Jeramey Jannene
Milwaukee’s War on Fun
It was just a few years ago when Milwaukee was named the #2 Party City in America, and although that might seem like a funny or insignificant title it was actually a well deserved and beneficial honor.
Feb 1st, 2009 by Dave Reid
BreakWater Fiasco
A column in Milwaukee Magazine criticizing the design of Renner Architect's soon-to-be completed BreakWater Condominiums spurred a response from Renner's firm that was in very poor form.
Jan 29th, 2009 by Jeramey Jannene
The Park East Park? Absolutely Not
In response to the announcement of the failing of The Residences of Palomar, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel ran an editorial talking about the idea of building a temporary park in the Park East land reclaimed from the former freeway spur. The idea is a bad one.
Jan 13th, 2009 by Jeramey Jannene
Our 2009 Top Ten Lists
It's time to look forward to what we can hope for and plan on in 2009.
Jan 5th, 2009 by Jeramey Jannene
Photos From the Top of the Downer Avenue Parking Garage
A view from atop the Downer Ave. Parking Garage
Jan 1st, 2009 by Dave Reid
Protecting the Milwaukee River? Or Overreaching Zoning?
Over the past few years the Milwaukee River Work Group ("MRWG") has pushed to create an overlay district to "protect" the Milwaukee River. This overlay district would create new building setback requirements, height limits, and introduce the concept of a viewshed for properties along the Milwaukee River.
Dec 23rd, 2008 by Dave Reid
Hometown Dorm Site – Additional Project Renderings
Mandel Group's efforts to construct a new UWM dormitory on the East Side took a step forward this week after receiving approval at both the City Plan Commission and the Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee. This matter will be taken up by the full Common Council on December 16th, 2008 and if approved intends to break ground within 90 days.
Dec 11th, 2008 by Dave Reid
Committee Approves UWM Dorm Plan
Two significant East Side projects, New Land Enterprises' Kenilworth apartment building and Mandel Group's dormitory proposal, were on the agenda for this committee meeting.
Dec 10th, 2008 by Dave Reid
City Commission Approves UWM Dorm Design
Bob Monnat, the chief operating officer of Mandel Group, gave a short presentation covering the history behind the development of this site.
Dec 9th, 2008 by Dave Reid
New Land Enterprises’ Kenilworth Apartment Development Informational Meeting
A meeting was held to discuss New Land Enterprises proposed apartment building for the corner of Kenilworth and Farwell.
Dec 3rd, 2008 by Dave Reid
IT Gallery
IT Gallery, the latest art gallery to open in Milwaukee, is situated on the corner of Ogden and Jackson in the 601 Lofts building.
Nov 26th, 2008 by Jeramey Jannene
East Side Apartment Proposal Held by Committee
New Land Enterprises was before the committee requesting a change in zoning to construct a 5-story apartment building to be located on North Farwell Avenue and East Kenilworth.
Nov 21st, 2008 by Dave Reid
UWM Dorm Building and Site Designs
This was the last of four meetings held to discuss UWM's most recent dorm proposal. Jim Shields, the project architect, presented his design for the building and how it fits on the 3.2 acre lot. He referred to the site as "an edge site", indicating how it sits on the "edge" of two drastically different environments.
Nov 18th, 2008 by Dave Reid
Hometown Dorm Site – Project Renderings
The Mandel Group's efforts to construct a new UWM dormitory on the East Side have included five public meetings, the release of basic site plans, and preliminary project renderings.
Nov 13th, 2008 by Dave Reid
New Land Enterprises’ East Side Proposal Faces No Objections
The most notable item on the agenda was New Land Enterprises' proposal for Farwell Avenue and Kenilworth Place.
Nov 11th, 2008 by Dave Reid
UWM Dorm Traffic, Transit & Parking Plan
This was the third of four meetings being held to discuss Mandel Group's proposed UWM resident hall that would be located on the former Hometown gas station site.
Nov 8th, 2008 by Dave Reid
Friday Photos Friday, 07. November 2008
Park Lafayette Kane Commons The North End Breakwater Condos Hometown Dorm Site
Nov 7th, 2008 by Dave Reid
New Land Proposes New Development on Kenilworth
New Land Enterprises has proposed a development for the southeast corner of Farwell Avenue and Kenilworth Avenue. The proposal is a five-story mixed-use apartment building with first floor retail.
Nov 4th, 2008 by Jeramey Jannene
UWM Addresses Neighborhood Issues
This was the second of four neighborhood meetings to discuss the proposed UWM resident hall.
Nov 2nd, 2008 by Dave Reid
Goll Mansion Project Now Called Transera
New Land Enterprises’ Goll Mansion Project has a new website and a new name, The Transera. The company recently unveiled their new website. Floor plans of units are now available, as well as a proposed amenities list. The project recently gained approval from the Milwaukee Common Council.
Oct 29th, 2008 by Jeramey Jannene
UWM Dorm Planned to be LEED Certified
Bob Monnat, the chief operating officer of Mandel Group, gave an overview of how the public meeting process will work and a presentation covering the environmental aspects of the project.
Oct 27th, 2008 by Dave Reid
Friday Photos Friday, 24. October 2008
Kane Commons The North End Breakwater Condos The Edge Park Lafayette
Oct 24th, 2008 by Dave Reid
Commission Approves Color Change for Downer Garage
The high profile Sydney Hih building and Downer Avenue redevelopment project were the main items on the agenda for this commission meeting. The initial item regarded the proposed interim historic designation for the Sydney Hih building. The developer requested it to be held over and as it had been previously presented the developer had no immediate intention to demolish the building. Although SandraMcSweeney questioned how many times it could be held over and whether or not there was a limit, it was held again.
Oct 14th, 2008 by Dave Reid
Those Damn College Kids…
I've sat through many community meetings and a consistent thread has been "Those Damn College Kids" are ruining the East Side.
Oct 9th, 2008 by Dave Reid
Goll Mansion Project – Common Council October 7th, 2008 Meetings Notes
Although only briefly discussed, the most controversial item approved today was the change in zoning for New Land Enterprises' 26-story condominium tower to be built behind the historic Goll Mansion.
Oct 7th, 2008 by Dave Reid
Car-free Days in Milwaukee
Recently Nick Whitaker, from Streetfilms, visited Milwaukee and captured two lively examples of car-free events here in Milwaukee.
Oct 6th, 2008 by Dave Reid
Zoning Committee Approves 26-Story Tower
The only item on this meeting's agenda was a request from New Land Enterprise for a change in zoning from RM7 to Detailed Planned Development which would facilitate the construction of a 26-story condominium tower on the Goll Mansion property.
Sep 30th, 2008 by Dave Reid
Hometown Gas Station Demolished
The Hometown Gas Station on North Avenue has been almost completely demolished.
Sep 30th, 2008 by Jeramey Jannene
Sydney Hih Nomination Held at Historic Preservation
This Historic Preservation Commission ("HPC") meeting included agenda items for the high profile projects, The Palomar, The Brewery and the Goll Mansion redevelopment.
Sep 30th, 2008 by Dave Reid
Combined Committee Approves 26-story Tower
This meeting was the much anticipated combined City Plan Commission ("CPC") and Historic Preservation Commission ("HPC") meeting regarding New Land Enterprises' development proposal for the Goll Mansion site.
Sep 16th, 2008 by Dave Reid
UWM Dorm Site Faces Little Opposition
Last Thursday night, residents of Milwaukee's lower east side gathered at Holy Rosary Church to discuss the final of three proposals selected by the UWM Real Estate Foundation. The meeting began much like the two previous had, with the developer (Phelan Development) making a presentation on the plan, followed by a short bit by the architect (Jim Shields in this case), and representatives from UWM talking over some basic logistics and facts. After which Vice Chancellor for University Relations and Communications Tom Luljak straps on his bullet proof vest, and questions from the audience are allowed.
Sep 11th, 2008 by Jeramey Jannene
Goll Mansion Project Prepares to Go Before the City for Approval
This project by New Land Enterprises proposes the construction of a 27-story 35-unit condominium development that would activate the Goll Mansion by utilizing it as the development's lobby. Controversy flared up at a recent neighborhood meeting over concerns from residents of 1522 On The Lake that some of their view would be blocked and from historic preservation groups that raised concerns about insuring the preservation of the historic Goll Mansion.
Sep 7th, 2008 by Dave Reid
UWM Faces Slight Opposition
This meeting was appropriately held at the Urban Ecology Center. It was appropriate because one of the key opposition concerns around the Hometown site was its location along the Milwaukee River. Although the location was different many of the same citizens were attendance.
Sep 4th, 2008 by Dave Reid
UWM Prospect Mall Parking Lot Dorm Renderings
Boulder Ventures provided us with a rendering of their proposed dorm for the Prospect Mall parking lot on the east side of Prospect Avenue.
Sep 4th, 2008 by Jeramey Jannene
Hot Meeting About Potential UWM Dorm Site
The Maryland Avenue School played host to a tension-filled meeting to discuss one of three proposals for the location of the new UWM dorm. The proposal on the table was the nearby Prospect Mall parking lot location proposed by Boulder Ventures.
Sep 3rd, 2008 by Jeramey Jannene
Public Meetings On Final Sites For New UWM Dorm
Public meetings for each dorm site have been announced. At each meeting the development teams will explain the proposal. The developer of the proposed site and UWM representives will be available for questions at each meeting. As a refresher we have included our opinion on each of the sites as described (we have not see the proposals yet).
Aug 26th, 2008 by Jeramey Jannene
Goll Mansion Project Renderings
New Land Development has made renderings available of their Goll Mansion project. We've reposted them here to continue discussion on the proposed development.
Aug 19th, 2008 by Jeramey Jannene
UWM Picks Our Three Favorite Dorm Sites As Finalists
The University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee Real Estate Foundation announced the final three sites (narrowed from a field of eight) for the new 500 to 700 bed dorm to be built.
Aug 15th, 2008 by Jeramey Jannene
Does Downtown Milwaukee Need More Street Trees?
Ask yourself what's missing along most of Wisconsin Avenue as it crosses through downtown. Then take a look at Milwaukee's lower east side. There is one key piece missing.
Aug 12th, 2008 by Jeramey Jannene
Where Is The New UWM Dorm Going?
To be honest, we don't know exactly. But we do know that they've proposed 8 sites, and we'll break down each one to determine which one we think might be the best.
Aug 7th, 2008 by Jeramey Jannene
27-Story Tower on Prospect Faces Opposition – But Why?
This plan would add $60 million to the City of Milwaukee's tax base, enhance the skyline, bring new residents to the city and save the Goll Mansion.
Jul 18th, 2008 by Dave Reid
Committtee Approves North End’s Job Training Plan
Dick Lincoln from the Mandel Group presented resolution 071618 which is the job training program portion of The North End development that receives funding from TIF No. 48. He explained that it would be “a little bit different than traditional workforce development” in that in focuses more on mentoring and coaching of emerging businesses to “take them to the next level.” Specifically, the program will help emerging business develop business and management skills so these firms can enter into larger contracts and participate in The North End project. This resolution was approved by the committee and will go before the full Common Council. Resolution 080209 changed the operating plan and structure of Business Improvement District No. 41 which represents the Downer Avenue business district. The changes would enlarged the board from five to seven members and it would adjust various line items within the proposed operating plan to allow the BID greater flexibility in their future operations. Although this resolution seems inoucous enough it gives the appearance as though these changes are connected to New Lan Enterprises’ controvsional re-development efforts on Downer Avenue. It appears this way because while Alderman Nik Kovac has worked to expand BID No. 41 both Boris Gokhman and Joel Lee have had their appointments to BID No. 41 held in committee. This resolution was approved by the committee and will go before the full Common Council.
Jun 4th, 2008 by Dave Reid
East Side Apartment Building to be Built Within Existing Zoning
Wangard Properties LLC is in the process of demolishing a vacant nursing home at 1824 E. Park Pl. and plans to build a 61-unit four-story apartment building in its place. Although this development seems fairly minor in comparison to many larger projects it is a great example of building by right. This is a case where the developer recognized that the East Side has seen its share of battles between developers and homeowners. For example in recent years homeowner’s have fought against the re-development of Downer Avenue, the Park Lafayette project, UWM RiverView Hall and the Hillel Student Center arguing “it’s too dense, too tall, it will impact parking, and it doesn’t fit the neighborhood”. The net result of these arguments have been, reduced tax base, less residents to support local business and slowed development. How this project fits into this discussion is that by legal right Wangard Properties LLC can build to their intended height and density according to their existing zoning and stay outside of the public planning process. Although this may concern some, it is important to note that this is the intention of zoning regulation and it is good to see smart developers continuing to develop projects despite the growing difficulties presented by this ever present NIMBY attitude on the East Side.
May 12th, 2008 by Dave Reid
Finally Activity at Park East Square
On December 21st 2007 RSC & Associates signed an agreement to purchase a parcel of land, known as Block 26, in the Park East Freeway corridor from Milwaukee County. It was believed at the time of the sale that RSC & Associates would break ground on two new hotels within a 90 days. Understandably development projects take a time and as this project nears its third year, finally there is a small sign of progress at the site. RSC & Associates have begun erecting the construction fence. Although this project has had a troubled history with its lengthy delays, numerous changes, and squabbling in the press, potentially this project will be getting in the ground and the next development in the Park East will begin to rise this summer.
Apr 23rd, 2008 by Dave Reid
Dump Kovac Before He Gets Started
100_5801 Originally uploaded by RNA Official Photo Site Dan Knauss wrote up an excellent analysis of the 3rd District Alderman race, which after the primary is down to Patrick Flaherty and Nik Kovac. If you’re a 3rd district resident or interested in Milwaukee politics, Dan’s article is definitely worth your time to read.
Mar 24th, 2008 by Jeramey Jannene
Richard Longworth to speak at UWM
My Kinda Town Originally uploaded by Stuck in Customs Announcing a special guest lecture coming to UWM that is worthy to attend for anyone interested in economic development. The UWM Department of Urban Planning is pleased to announce details regarding its 2008 Charles Causier Memorial Lecture. Mr. Richard C. Longworth will present a lecture at UWM entitled “A Punch to the Middle: Globalization and the American Midwest,” on Friday, April 4th from 7:30 – 8:30 pm. Richard C. Longworth, selected to be the 2008 Charles Causier Memorial Lecturer, is a senior fellow at the Chicago Council on Global Affairs and former senior correspondent at the Chicago Tribune. He is the author of “Caught in the Middle: America’s Heartland in the Age of Globalism,” a book that describes this transformation and suggests ways in which the Midwest can fight back. Critics have given high reviews to his take on our situation and his ideas about the way forward. Carlos Santiago, UWM Chancellor, notes “Longworth’s book and The Chicago Council on Global Affairs are raising significant issues that will have a major influence on our future. I look forward to the contributions that those associated with our university will make to this effort.” Mr. Longworth’s upcoming lecture at UWM will focus on how globalization is transforming the American Midwest, and how the Milwaukee region is addressing the challenge. New global forces are turning both heavy industry and farming upside down, undermining old factory towns and rural areas, destroying old jobs and bringing in new immigrants, putting new demands on education, on government, and on Midwesterners themselves. All this is happening with lightning speed, in a region that prizes stability. Mr. Longworth will address how the region is currently coping with globalization and provide insight into how the Midwest can adapt and prosper. The event is free and open to the public. April 4th, 2008 7:30 – 8:30 pm (reception and book signing to follow lecture) UWM School of Architecture and Urban Planning (SARUP) – Room 170 2131 E. Hartford Avenue, Milwaukee, WI, 53201 I’ll be there, and hope to see you!
Mar 23rd, 2008 by Jeramey Jannene
I’m Voting For Sam
I’ve been fielding a lot of questions as to who I’m voting for 3rd District Alderman in tomorrow’s primary election. The answer? I’m voting for Sam McGovern-Rowen. There are a lot of quality candidates out there, and they all (with few exceptions) are fighting for virtually the same thing. In my opinion I think the 3rd District is doing quite well, so any candidate running around saying “vote for change” have better have a really good answer to what is wrong. I haven’t seen anything conclusive answer other than name calling. The question I asked myself was who did I think had enough experience and political savvy to deliver results on this general consensus of more safety and sustainable growth? Sam was at the top of that list thanks to his experience at City Hall and his family’s political history. Urban Milwaukee supports Sam McGovern-Rowen for 3rd District Alderman. Don’t forget to vote tomorrow!
Feb 18th, 2008 by Jeramey Jannene
City Plan Commission Approves Downer Avenue Plan
The first item on the agenda, Resolution 070963, was the heavily debated Downer Avenue Redevelopment Phase II project. The resolution would recommend a change of zoning from General Planned Development to Detailed Planned Development and include a 7-story hotel, an 11-story residential tower, 5 town homes, and a 4-story addition to the Mulkhern building. Architect Scott Kindness indicated that the Chancery building currently retains only about 50% of its original facade and that they “plan on taking down the entire building to allow this to happen” but that they will “rebuild the 1936 version of the Chancery building”. Clearly he was referring to rebuilding the facade along the first two floors as they will add additional floors with a setback allowing the street level massing to appear similar to its original design. He also indicated the project will most likely break ground in the Spring of 2009 as both pre-sales for the condominiums and finding the operator for the hotel will take time and are dependent on approvals. Architect Matt Rinka explained that the redevelopment of the Mulkhern building would include the 4-story addition, demolishing the drive through and ramp, creation of an urban garden, and will convert the existing upper floor to medical uses. Despite multiple iterations, and numerous meetings opposition to this change in zoning was brought by local community members who have fought this project from its beginning. Alderman Michael D’Amato pointed out that that “the use is consistent with the General Planned Development, the height is consistent with the General Planned Development, and the massing is consistent with the General Planned Development” further he indicated the plan is simply receiving opposition from the same neighborhood members who opposed this project from the beginning indicating that taking further input was just a delaying tactic and at this point served no purpose. He appealed to the commission that “the anchors on Downer Avenue are dying” and that “I hope you will finally allow progress on Downer Avenue.” The Commission took his advice and recommended it for approval with the conditions that the developer works to shorten the balcony and continues to work with staff on improvements. Another item of particular interest, Resolution 071292, pitted groups of citizens with positive intentions against each other. Specifically groups representing low income housing for the homeless and mentally ill ran into opposition from green and bicyclist enthusiasts due to the site location. The property in question was a city owned lot near the Kinnickinnic River that various groups had been planning to use for bike trails and green space. Alderman Tony Zielinski appeared upset over the proposed use of land and went on to say “we are setting a dangerous precedent by developing our green space”. The commission listened to his advice and held the resolution asking the Department of City Development to work with the developer to look for another site or improve the facility’s design to work better with the trail.
Feb 12th, 2008 by Dave Reid
Three Unrelated Persons Per Residence
One of the often-overlooked rules for residences in Milwaukee is that no more than three unrelated persons may live together. I’ve never heard a good reason for why the rule is in place or how one can get around the rule (outside of simply ignoring it like many landlords do). DailyReporter.com finally gave me an answer to all of my questions. It turns out that it’s mainly a financial issue for keeping the rule on the books. Reducing the number of occupants per residence limits the potential income of a landlord and helps slow any burning desires they have to buy up the entire block with the income from packing 5 people (probably students) into a house, and turning the neighborhood into a slum lord’s paradise. This rule has the greatest affect in the areas surrounding universities in the city, primarily UW-Milwaukee. There is of course always the factor that 4 or 5 college students together in one residence can cause trouble, but the prevailing reason for the rule seems to be the financial factor. To get around the rule you can simply claim someone you’re living with is your cousin, but Alderman D’Amato is leading the charge to tighten that loophole by requiring residents be first cousins, and not simply cousins to get around the requirement.
Jan 24th, 2008 by Jeramey Jannene
Questions for Aldermanic Questions
Riverwesters for Progressive Growth are looking to get a series of questions answered by all the candidates for alderman in the Third Aldermanic District. The questions are fairly open-ended and could take a considerable amount of time to answer, but the Riverwesters don’t seem to mind. Should be interesting to see what answers they get.
Jan 22nd, 2008 by Jeramey Jannene
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
