John Norquist

Did Harbor Commissioner Serve Illegally?

Ron San Felippo has homes in East Troy and Florida while serving on commission and also voting in elections as city resident.

Ironworkers Local 8 Hosts 25th Anniversary Remembrance Ceremony, Game Day Tribute

Honor Fallen Ironworkers, Recognize Milwaukee and Wisconsin Construction Building Trades

See the 2024 Mayor’s Design Awards Winners

20 projects big and small are named best of the best in Milwaukee design

Mayor Backs Boulevard To Replace I-794 Downtown

'We should be thinking about the city we want in the future, 30 years from now.'

Mayor Pledges To Get Involved in Schools

Johnson vows to make Milwaukee a city that attracts people because of its schools.

Council President Jose Perez Reelected

Pérez wins by 10-5 vote over Milele Coggs to lead city's legislative body.

Bill Christianson Is Milwaukee’s New Fiscal Watchdog

Christianson defeats Greg Gracz for open seat as city comptroller.

How Partisan Divide on Education Hurts State

Some schools with poor students have success. Why aren't we learning from that?

Meet the Candidates For City Office

And read the analysis of each race and bios for each candidate.

University Club Milwaukee, $2,728,500

With quite a history. But now that it's closing, what can be done with the building?

Changes To Milwaukee’s Zoning Code Would Encourage More Development

"Growing MKE" proposal part of strategy to grow city to 1 million residents.

Safety Fencing Being Added to Hoan Bridge

Bridge has been the site of dozens of suicides.

Milwaukee Still Paying $1 Million Per Year For Brewers Stadium

New request for $2.5 million annually comes as city still paying prior costs

Who Will Blink on Brewers Subsidy?

Vos wants a local contribution and Milwaukee officials oppose this. The issue could get very ugly.

Park East Removal Didn’t ‘Devastate’ Downtown

Controversy over its removal offers lessons to those opposing plan to take down I-794 link.

How Committed Is City To Tearing Down 794?

Council members question 'weasel language' in Milwaukee plan for Downtown.

Street Will Receive Honorary Name For Wisconsin’s First Black Sheriff

"Sheriff Richard Artison" will be applied to portion of N. 9th Street near courthouse.

Your Input Sought On How To Get To One Million Residents

Public meetings will seek suggestions on how to grow city and achieve mayor's vision.

See The 2023 Mayor’s Design Awards Winners

20 winners span the city, represent the best of Milwaukee architecture and design.

Wisconsin Center Won’t Reconsider Removing Literary Artwork

CEO Marty Brooks emails board members to explain why.

Wisconsin Center Will Destroy Literary Artworks

Nationally unique installation done in 1998. Public board didn't vote on its destruction.

Interstate 794 Named Freeway Without A Future

Congress for the New Urbanism report will include downtown Milwaukee highway.

Will Vos Kill Shared Revenue Hike For City?

Assembly Speaker's comments blasting Milwaukee worries Mayor Johnson.

Mayor Johnson Moves to Concordia Neighborhood

A new house for new mayor, who buys historic mansion on Near West Side.

Zoning Changes Could Grow City Population

City looks to update zoning code, in line with Mayor Johnson's vision for growth.

New Hotel Hints At Potential of Deer District

The Trade could be a key connecting piece between Fiserv Forum and Downtown, activating forlorn W. Juneau Ave.

Clifton Crump Named To Zoning Board

Former secretary of city's Board of Zoning Appeals returns to serve on board, to acclaim from council members.

A Walk That’s All Woods And Water

From Caesar’s Park to Urban Ecology Center you pass 70 different tree species and dozens of wildflowers, shrubs, and grasses.

The Rise of José Pérez

How high school dropout rose to become first Latino Common Council president in Milwaukee history.

2022 Mayor’s Design Awards Announced

25 projects cover entire city, range from big to small.

Riverwalk Offers Many Different Views

Of Downtown, the river, many artworks and brewpubs of course.

Perez Elected Common Council President

Ald. Jose Perez is first Latino to lead council. Fills vacancy created by Johnson's election as mayor.

Johnson Carried 81% of City’s Wards

Sweeping victory in low-turnout election, lowest in an open race for Milwaukee mayor since 1900.

Baldwin, Pocan Deliver for Wisconsin

Both among top members of Congress in getting earmarked federal spending for this state.

The Fall and Rise of Bronzeville

A more than decade-long effort to restore neighborhood’s glory gaining momentum.

The Trade Starts To Climb

New hotel across the street from Fiserv Forum will ultimately rise nine stories.

Milwaukee Has a Singing Mayor Again

Acting Mayor Cavalier Johnson tries singing at city's 176th Birthday Party, before a big turnout of politicians.

Who Will Win Mayoral Primary?

Voter turnout may decide which two candidates get through primary.

Johnson Controls’ Departure Impacts Third Ward

The story goes all the way back to 1993. Plus: A recap of the week's real estate news

Cavalier Johnson Says He’s Ready To Be Mayor

He'll become acting mayor immediately upon Tom Barrett's resignation. Expected by Dec. 28.

Public Works Commissioner Jeff Polenske Leaving For Private Sector

Three-decade government veteran "retiring" for private-sector employment.

A Deer District Foundation

The Trade hotel will rise nine stories, including 205 rooms.

Bucks, NCG Break Ground on Deer District Hotel

"The Trade" will be a Marriott hotel with an entire floor intended for NBA players.

How The City Lost the Medical Center

New mental health center on near West Side of city a change from decades of hospitals moving to Wauwatosa.

Mayor’s Race Looks Like a Wild One

Wide open, with lots of candidates, no obvious favorites and so much at stake.

Harley-Davidson Museum Worth $12 Million

But this value will soon increase. And the site has a remarkable history.

Democrats Should Be Tough on Crime

It’s not a winning message to say crime is justified by poverty.

Evers Is Wrong on I-94 Expansion

The proposal doesn't learn from history and contradicts the approach of Biden, Buttigieg.

Build a Better City From Your Couch

Annual Congress for the New Urbanism pivots to virtual format.

Local Black History You Should Know

Including Marvin Pratt, Heal the Hood and the Young, Black & Opinionated podcast.

Another Milwaukee Icon Falls Victim to COVID-19

Council Overrides Mayoral Veto, Wants Power To Fire Police Chief

Council wants Legislature to give it firing power. Mayor's veto of this fails.

2020 Mayor’s Design Awards Announced

23rd annual awards program goes virtual, but still finds 31 winners across the city.

Council Wants Control Over Police and Fire Chiefs

Seeking changes to state law to give city's elected officials control.

The Loveliness of Lakeshore State Park

Wisconsin’s only urban state park offers walkers unparalleled views of the lake, downtown skyline and prairie.

Norquist Says City Not ‘Most Racist’

Milwaukee is very diverse, Wisconsin’s least racist city, he tells Washington DC radio station.

Article offers insight into how Milwaukee suburbs keep out affordable housing

Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy August 19, 2020

State’s Largest Brownfield Now Clean

After years of remediation, a highly-contaminated site in the Menomonee Valley is certified as clean by the DNR.

Baldwin Bill Pushes Transitional Jobs

Pandemic dramatizes long-term issue of job shortages, issue pushed by policy analyst David Riemer.

Milwaukee 6th Most Diverse City in US?

More diverse than nearly 600 other cities, says new report. Should we believe it?

What FDR Did That Addresses the Pandemic

Creating unemployment compensation, other reforms that are helping us weather this crisis.

Port Renaming Boat “Larry Sullivan” After 53-Year City Employee

Sullivan retired last week after nearly three decades as port's chief engineer.

About that Miller Park Economic Impact

New study greatly exaggerates the benefits — as it was expected to do.

Poll Shows Surprising Support for MPS

Most think MPS needs more funding and would back it in the referendum, poll shows.

City Attorney Guts Authority of FPC Board

The FPC board clearly has the power to oversee executive director and staff.

Most Popular Plenty of Horne Columns

Scott Walker, Chris Abele, John Norquist and Rudy Guiliani all made the list.

See The Canstruction of Local Landmarks

Plus: Associated gives Milwaukee Center new name & upgrades, mass timber building tops off.

City Adjusts Zoning for First Floor Design

More active first floors create more a more activated, walkable city.

John Norquist’s 70th Birthday Party

A host of Milwaukeeans and former city officials attend gala party in Chicago.

St. Paul a Model for MPS Funding Effort?

That city's successful school funding referendum was backed by local officials.

Should Summerfest Pay Higher Rent?

Harbor House pays at least 7 times more than Summerfest per acre of lakefront land.

The Quiet Plan to Save Grand Avenue

Actually written 10 years ago. Civic leaders discuss how public private partnerships revived Downtown.

Upgrade the New Deal, Riemer Declares

Book by former aide to Norquist, Doyle, who helped Tommy Thompson design Badger Care, offers bold solutions.

Tom Barrett’s Black Voter Challenge

His support solid in black community. But 2020 could be different.

5 Ways to Make to City Magic Happen

Congress for New Urbansim head Lynn Richards touts urban strategies in Rotary speech.

Should Barrett Worry About Reelection?

Another easy win seems certain. Which may not be so good for Milwaukee.

The Flag Stands for LGBTQ People, Too

On July 4th, remembering those Milwaukeeans who stood up for LGBTQ rights.

Nothing New in Northridge Mall Plan

Is Northridge dispute simply an echo of the drawn-out Menomonee Valley fight?

City Is Repaving More Streets

But is focus on streets just creating a backlog of alleys and sidewalks needing work?

2019 Mayor’s Design Awards Recipients

Here are winners of annual awards for the best in Milwaukee design.

George Watts Building Worth $1.5 Million

And so many memories of genteel china shop visited by folks like the 4th Baron Wedgwood.

A Rising Star in Architecture

I missed the boat on architect Matt Rinka. High time for a reconsideration.

Who Should Win A Mayor’s Design Award?

Nominations open until March 31st for 22nd annual Mayor's Design Awards contest.

Hamilton Ally May Run for His Seat

Marvin Pratt's daughter may run. Ald. Hamilton's bid for mayor now seems all but certain.

Ashanti Hamilton Files for Mayoral Run

Is Chris Abele planning to back Hamilton?

Governor-Elect Tony Evers Announces Chief of Staff and Transition Team Director, Co-Chairs

Maggie Gau, Governor-Elect Evers’ campaign manager, will become Governor-Elect Evers’ Chief of Staff.

Milwaukee Pride brings rainbow crosswalks to Cathedral Square

Join us Saturday for our Opening Ceremony

11 Things to Know Before You Ride The Hop

How many people will ride it? How is it free? Oh so many questions, all answered here.

Barrett Taps Polenske For Public Works

Veteran City Engineer to become head of 2,300-employee Department of Public Works.

Norquist Bashes Inspector General Idea

Council wants its own watchdog. Former mayor says post is unnecessary.

Home For a Lieutenant Governor?

Mandela Barnes' northwest-side condo was once part of segregated neighborhood.

Brady Street Project Cancelled

City marketing vacant lot on Lower East Side main street for $105,000.

Why Milwaukee Needs a Streetcar

Across the globe cities embrace transit, reject freeways in urban areas.

Who Now Has Power Over Police Chief?

Common Council may regret stripping mayor’s power over Police-Fire director.

Council Backs Less Mayoral Power Over FPC

Votes 13-1 to ask state to reduce mayor's power to appoint Fire and Police leader.

High Court Sticks It To Milwaukee

Roggensack’s political decision gives police and fire unions more power over pension fund.

How Trump Threatens State’s Exports

As parties flip-flop on free trade, can Wisconsin’s export economy be protected?

The House of City Insiders

Former city tax assessor Julie Penman and streetcar consultant Jeff Bentoff live here.

Council approves FPC executive director measure, OKs move to push for hiring seasonal police officers

News release from Alderman Bob Donovan

2018 Mayor’s Design Award Recipients

Twenty projects honored, ranging from new skyscraper to two new parks.

Urban Milwaukee Wins 7 Press Club Awards

6th straight year the publication is honored by state-wide journalism contest.

Why Is City’s Student Achievement So Low?

NAEP results show notable progress in Chicago, but discouraging results here.

Barrett Withdraws Nannis Nomination

Interim Health Dept leader at issue, as City Hall infighting hits new highs.

City Report Finds Health Dept. Problems

Records missing for 30 homes with lead problems. Funding, staff reductions an issue.

Council Could Reject Interim Health Leader

Eight aldermen question legality of Nannis appointment to run Health Department.

Nominations Open for Mayor’s Design Awards

21st annual program will honor everything from new towers to pocket parks.

Barrett Ousts Bevan Baker Over Lead Fiasco

Failure to notify families of lead-poisoned children at issue; aldermen outraged.

Milwaukee NARI Honors GPS Education Partners with “Building Milwaukee” Award

The “Building Milwaukee” Award was created to recognize efforts made by individuals and businesses who concentrate on improvements assisting in the growth or positive impact of our community.

Milwaukee’s Riverwalk Earns Prestigious International Award

Urban Land Institute Names RiverWalk a Global Award of Excellence Winner

Mayor Barrett tells the Common Council not to politicize the Police Chief position, yet uses him for fundraising

Statement by Alderman Tony Zielinski

Plague of Floods Caused by Climate Change

Dozens of 100-year floods in 30 years, roads keep getting washed out.

Row House An Architectural Treasure

1891 Friedmann Row is now condos, one owned by ex-judge James Gramling.

Eliminating community prosecutors very, very bad for Milwaukee

Statement from Alderman Bob Donovan - July 24, 2017

The Good and Bad of Urbanism

Richard Florida drops by Marquette University to discuss his latest book, “The New Urban Crisis.”

Mayor’s Design Awards All Over Map

Big, little, new or renovated, award winners in 13 of 15 aldermanic districts.

How Federal Funding Hurts Cities

Liberals and cities would be better off opposing funding.

Farwell and Brady Need Changes

More turning lights, high-visibility crosswalks, make Farwell a two-way street.

Trump Tariffs Will Hurt State Workers

Manufacturers like Harley will suffer, as when a steel tariff was imposed in 2002.

The Problem Of Architecture Review Boards

All the rules for developers kill bad buildings. But do they also kill the great ones?

How Milwaukee Handled “Flint” Crisis

Were city officials asleep? Should they be doing more?

DoMUS Rising

Mandel's newest building targeted at empty nesters, not Millennials.

Henningsen, former alderman, dies at age 70

The New Charlie Sykes

He's confessing his errors and getting lots of publicity. Could there be a connection?

Inside Walker’s Landing Apartments

Final residential development on Beerline adds 114 apartments and great views.

Why Rocky Marcoux Is In Trouble

New Common Council leaders want to ax the DCD leader. But why? Few will say.

Does Anyone Oppose Bus Rapid Transit?

The idea is very unsexy, yet has gained amazingly wide support.

Mayor’s Design Awards

The 2016 Mayor's Design Awards recognized projects from every corner of the city.

Norquist to Speak at Jane Jacobs Event

May 10th event will explore ideas of urban visionary and her impact on cities like Milwaukee.

Marty Schreiber’s Last Campaign

The former governor, faced with his beloved wife’s dementia, urges others to ask for help.

Will Bucks’ Plaza Be Public or Private?

Team wants 4th Street closed, but will this create a town square or just team profits?

What Has Mayor Barrett Accomplished?

After nearly 12 years in office, his impact can be seen -- if you look hard.

Pastiche Leaving Bay View for Downtown

And Carnevor, Ruyi and Screaming Tuna will have new menus.

Brady Street’s Delicate Balancing Act

Residents strive to keep a healthy mix of uses in their densely populated neighborhood.

Urban Milwaukee Drive Raises $30,590!

Thank you, Milwaukee. Our crowdfunding drive raised 153% of goal.

Aperture Apartments Nearing Completion

Five floors, 168 apartments, a Fresh Thyme store and a cool, curving building.

Will Public Market Expand?

The fish market wants to expand outdoor cafe. And Chevy Johnson kicks off campaign for alderman.

Chris Larson’s War Against Abele

State senator running for county executive blasts Abele with personal attacks, will divide Democrats.

Major Goolsby’s, Still a Great Sports Bar

One of nation's first, where Charles Barkley and Reggie Jackson, among others, hung out.

Join John Norquist at Our Annual Party

With drinks, appetizers, good talk and great view of the city. And news about our plans to expand.

Former Milwaukee Mayor John Norquist, Venice Williams of Alice’s Garden and more to lead the 2015 Alverno Community Conference

This year’s theme, “A Tapestry of Sustainability,” features over 30 interactive sessions

Former Mayor John Norquist: ‘Bucks should back off from closing Fourth Street

Lakefront Brewery

This popular attraction is not just for tours anymore.

The Return of Peter Park

Now a top consultant, the former city planner says Milwaukee's 20-year plan was done in a decade.

A World Without Walls

Freeways create concrete walls that divide the city. Their expansion is unneeded.

Longtime Milwaukee Common Council member Scherbert dies

14 Fun Facts About the Port of Milwaukee

Everything you wanted to know about the city’s most entrepreneurial department.

The City’s $30 Million Design Project

National competition for lakefront bridge could have huge impact, but city’s process raises questions.

Mayor’s Design Awards

The 2015 Mayor's Design Awards recognized projects big and small from across the city.

The Disappearance of Dan Bice

 The state’s top political reporter has disappeared. Is the Journal Sentinel killing his column?

A Mayor’s Home Is Still Notable

Once John Norquist's residence, this elegant 1889 home on S. 26th St. is included on Historic Milwaukee's upcoming Spaces and Traces tour.

We Want a New Arena!

Bradley Center rally organized by MMAC featured five speakers touting the benefits of building a taxpayer-subsidized NBA arena.

De Blasio Descends on Milwaukee

New York's mayor and crew of handlers and security came for his speech to state Democrats. Later he partied with local pols and local brews at Nick's House.

Why Businesses Are Moving To The City

Many are moving from suburbs to Downtown and Walker's Point, seeking younger workers.

The Secret Tax Subsidy Society

Republicans and Democrats conspire to create stealth taxes to fund the NBA arena. Will they succeed?

The Rise of Suburban Style Homes

A variety of Postwar architecture is on display in Milwaukee, as is the counter-revolution of New Urbanist development.

Milwaukee Streetcar Approved

After years of debate, streetcar will finally move forward. Final engineering will begin immediately, and construction by the end of the year.

Milwaukee’s Riverwalk Vs. San Antonio’s

In many ways, this city’s Riverwalk is superior. Part III of a series.

Crowd Celebrates City Birthday Party

Politicians, PR people and other notables schmoozed away. The best rumor was that Chief Flynn might be retiring.

Why the Swing Park Failed

It became a comedy of errors, but raises serious questions about the city’s strategy for “creative placemaking.”

Walker’s Landing Coming to Commerce Street

The $19.5 million, 133-unit apartment complex along the river will fill in one of the last developable pieces of land on the Beerline.

Construction Underway at The North End

Mandel Group is building the third phase of their "neighborhood by design" -- to plug "the doughnut hole in Downtown."

Milwaukee/NARI Home Improvement Council Honors Barry Mandel With the “Building Milwaukee” Award

The Milwaukee Chapter of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI presented its annual “Building Milwaukee Award” to Barry Mandel.

Barrett Moving Forward With Streetcar

If Common Council approves at December 16 meeting, construction would start in late 2015, and Milwaukee would follow in footsteps of many other cities.

Architect Chuck Engberg’s First Place on the River

His condo offers unmatched views of the passing pleasure craft, coal barges and trains.

The Legacy of Annette Polly Williams

The author of school choice later became its opponent. Williams was controversial -- and misunderstood -- right to the end.

From the Potawatomi Hotel

From the 20th floor, a magnificent view of the city and its central valley, once grimly industrial and now turning ever more green.

Is Barry Mandel the Michael Jordan of Development?

Barrett rhapsodizes over developer at groundbreaking of North End III. And Fresh Thyme owner adds praise of Mandel style.

MIAD Apartments Changes Irk Bauman, Who Demands Fix

A planned community gathering space instead becomes an underwhelming staircase.

“Anywhere you hang your hat is your home”

Art Guenther has run Just Art's for 34 years, and mostly enjoyed it, though he's kicked out customers, including Jeffrey Dahmer.

Why Bob Donovan Can’t Beat Barrett

No alderman will back him. Why he’s so disliked -- and so certain to lose.

A Common Dream for Metro Milwaukee

Support for a new NBA arena can and should unite us as fellow Milwaukeeans.

New 18-Story Downtown Building Breaks Ground

The $102 million, 18-story tower at 833 E. Michigan is huge development, with no city financing. The full story, with photos and building renderings.

The Hotel That Isn’t There

The downtown Marriott made so many compromises in design there's barely any left.

Sen.Carpenter’s Rather Dull Duplex

His sided, south side home, in suburban-like Jackson Park, is a veritable pillar of middle-class respectability.

The Remarkable Impact of the Deep Tunnel

Once widely maligned, the project was the key to transforming the Milwaukee River.

Adams Talks Hard Truths About Milwaukee’s Future at Forum

Last night, Dan Adams participated in the East Side Neighborhood Associations Forum, moderated by Urban Milwaukee editor Bruce Murphy.

Neighborhood House announces Jeff Martinka as its new Executive Director

Milwaukee native tapped to lead community center on Milwaukee’s West Side

Alderman Donovan offers real alternative to mayor’s “plan ”

Statement from Alderman Bob Donovan

Lynn Richards Named President and CEO of the Congress for the New Urbanism

U.S. EPA Smart Growth leader will expand CNU as global force in community design and development

Transforming the State’s Largest Public Housing Development

City bulldozed 332 barracks-style units at Westlawn and replaced them with more urban styles.

Top Lobbyists Will Replace Your Windows!

Bill Broydrick's Window Replacement Co., new women political candidates, and a MacArthur genius comes to town.

I-794 Comes Crumbling Down

A portion of freeway is getting torn down for new lakefront development plan. Our photos capture it.

Does Downer Avenue Need a Tax Subsidy?

Developer Joel Lee claims the buzzing retail strip needs help from the city.

Developer Tim Dixon’s Home and Tennis Court

High above Commerce Street, it offers a spectacular view of Downtown, and respite from Dixon's financial woes.

Entrants & Winners for Wisconsin Avenue Placemaking

The "Tournavation" event at City Hall included an expert panel and audience, which selected two winners from among 12 finalists.

CNU President John Norquist To Step Down After A Decade

Norquist spearheaded campaigns for highway removal, federal reform of housing policy and walkable communities

Police Scam Artists

Why does the cop’s union protect officers who rip off taxpayers?

The Road to Creativity

Despite carping from critics, the Creational Trails project seeks to artistically enliven 10 blocks of Wisconsin Avenue.

Grand Opening of KK River Bike Trail!

Celebration Saturday of newest part of trail whose origins go back more than a decade.

The End of Suburbs?

So argues a new book. And former Milwaukee Mayor John Norquist agrees. Are they right?

Streetcar Social

Gathering of notables tracks the route of proposed streetcar. And HGTV comes to town to film a straw-bale home.

City a National Leader in Skyscrapers

Since 2000, Milwaukee ranks 10th among 67 big cities in high-rises built per capita. Part I of a two-part series.

Ald. Pérez’s Tiny, Former Jesuit Home

His tiny lot and 840 square-foot home make him a true man of the people. And not much of a gardener.

Will WisDOT Propose Expanding I-43?

WisDOT says I-43 has reached the end of its lifespan, and a hit-and-run tragedy on the East Side raises safety concerns.

Greater Milwaukee Committee to Move to Water Accelerator

All the news on the GMC's new home, as well as odds and ends around the East Side and beyond (plus a bicycle tour).

Is Milwaukee the Next Detroit?

Analyzing this city’s key strengths and weaknesses.

Barrett & Council to Walker and Legislature: “Give me my ball, I’m going home”

Statement from Alderman Bob Donovan July 1, 2013

Salt Lake City Solutions

Urban Milwaukee takes in CNU's 21st annual conference and learns about old (Brigham Young!) and new urbanism.

Myths About a New NBA Arena

In their zeal to build new, publicly-funded arena, proponents are misleading the community.

How to Crush Milwaukee

Ending the residency requirement will deal a devastating blow to Milwaukee’s property tax base.

How to Regulate Guns

Liberals need to better understand firearms if they have any hope of passing regulations.

Remembering Ed Koch

The first big-city mayor to reject groveling for federal help by selling urban pathology, Koch’s arrogance helped save New York.

Shelly Lalonde

A world traveler with 25 years experience framing art, Lalonde is a survivor in a tough economy.

How State Aid to Cities Has Plummeted

Milwaukee is getting killed by declining shared revenue, violating a century-old state agreement.

Sydney HiH Retrospective

Gallery Night provided one last opportunity to experience the Sydney HiH.

Don’t Wreck Sidney Hih

The troubled history of municipal land clearance and why it’s a very bad idea to demolish Sidney Hih.

Rocky Road

Some aldermen want to dump DCD head Rocky Marcoux, but Mayor Barrett disagrees.

Close Wisconsin Avenue Through the Marquette Campus?

In 1992, Marquette proposed closing Wisconsin Avenue to vehicular traffic between North 11th and North 16th streets, as well as North 12th and North 13th streets between Wisconsin Avenue and Wells Street. Closing a section of Wisconsin Avenue was intended to make the campus safer and more attractive, and it certainly would have had a big impact on the university and city, but would it have been positive?

John Norquist Milwaukee Tour – Congress for the New Urbanism

One day before the start of the Congress for the New Urbanism (CNU) 19th annual conference in Madison, former Mayor and current CNU President & CEO John Norquist returned to Milwaukee with a number of his former deputies to offer a tour of many of the urban projects started during his tenure as mayor.

Tahrir Square

We all watched as Egyptians rose up to overthrow a dictator, and take back their country.

The Wealth of Cities by John Norquist – Book Review

Milwaukee's former Mayor, John Norquist, in his book The Wealth of Cities writes up the impacts of U.S. policies on our cities, lays out his foundational beliefs that today form a key plank of the New Urbanism movement, and shares his insight into how he believes cities should be governed.

Milwaukee Streetcar Round-Up

The Milwaukee circulator streetcar is moving forward, but there is still confusion in the mind of many. We've covered the issue in the past, but this article attempts to bring everything together in one place, the history, the frequently asked questions, and the proposed route.

What’s The Cost of Parking in Downtown Milwaukee?

What's the cost of parking in downtown Milwaukee? It might just be more than the cost of plugging the meter. The low cost of parking in Milwaukee might actually be preventing new development from happening downtown.

The Game and The Players

Understanding the discussion around Milwaukee transit requires an understanding of who has the keys to unlock the federal funds to improve and expand the existing system. We need to lay some groundwork before any discussion on the actual proposals can start.

No Interchange Until Developer Is Lined Up

Heading East on I94 Originally uploaded by compujeramey The project I love to hate, the Pabst Farms development, won’t be the recipient of a new interchange with Interstate 94 anytime soon. The state won’t be building a new interchange until there is a new developer lined up. This is a positive sign of some restraint on interstate spending by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. A department who appears to have no problem building a massive, remodeled interchange on the edge of downtown, planning to rebuild the Zoo Interchange in a few years, and then diverting traffic away from those new interchanges at the drop of a hat by building a new interchange on the edge of the Milwaukee-metro area. Wisconsin continues to build out this massive network of highways by simply expanding the number of lanes and expanding the size of interchanges. The Pabst Farms interchange is yet another sign of a state that doesn’t have a strategy to deal with transit except for throwing more money into the wind, while state’s like Colorado build out efficient, modern mass transit networks and Illinois looks to continue to expand the Metra system and improve the L. For now it looks like the battle will continue. Urban visionaries will continue to campaign for the destruction of urban freeways (see Norquist and the Park East Freeway), while suburbanites campaign for the development of new interchanges on the edge of the metro area. This back and forth is going to continue until the state of Wisconsin is able to come up with some kind of people-moving strategy that doesn’t involve continually building massive concrete structures that eventually fall under disuse.

Thoughts on Milwaukee University Crime

Yield For Pedestrians ? Originally uploaded by slowpokeiv Public perception of Milwaukee’s university campuses is that they’re a step shy of being a war zone at night. Unfortunately for fear mongers everywhere, they’re not.  The latest shooting on the UWM campus has again brought about discussion about how dangerous Milwaukee’s urban college campuses are compared to the rest of the state.  Milwaukee undeniably has more crime than other cities in the state, however, it does not have to be that way. What’s going on that creates random robberies on Milwaukee’s campuses? The issue is two-fold. First, Milwaukee has a crisis level of unemployment when it comes to African-American males. This has the trickle down effect of creating a central city that has a crime problem. It’s hard for unemployed parents to be good parents. It’s also hard for those people to be good neighbors and members of society. It’s certainly not solely an African-American issue, as the issue affects everyone. It’s also not just a Milwaukee issue, it’s a Wisconsin and nationwide problem. Those without jobs are trapped within inner cities as they are even more rejected as members of society in smaller towns. It’s an issue that starts with one group of people and spills over to affect everyone. The Fourth Street Forum from two weeks ago touched on this. No one has a good solution to end it currently other than to end racism, which despite being the 21st century seems to be easier said than done for a large part of America. So you need to understand that there is a structural problem that creates this mob of teens with a lack of true role models and a feeling that they’re trapped in a never ending situation. They instead turn to crime and prey on those that are the weakest, unsuspecting college students. The second part of the issue is the lack of pedestrian density in many areas surrounding UWM, MSOE, MIAD, and Marquette. These campuses are populated with students who come from all over Wisconsin and the Midwest and have primarily grown up with a lifestyle of riding in “Lexus cages.” They’re not sure what to look for when it comes to potential robbers and prefer to ride everywhere in automobiles. Students aren’t forced to deal with this change in scenery when they go to a college like UW-Whitewater and are accustomed with how to avoid bad situations.  It’s not that residents of Milwaukee are hostile towards college students and seek to rob them once the sun sets compared to boring (yes, I said it) “college towns” like Whitewater or Menomonee, it’s that those that struggle to get by in Wisconsin ultimately end up in Milwaukee where there are supposedly more jobs.  They don’t find that when they get here and ultimately contribute in some way, shape, or form to what is a higher crime rate. How do we fight this problem?  First off, it’s crucial to acknowledge that it is not one problem of schools […]

Interview With John Norquist

The Shepherd Express has an interview with former Milwaukee mayor John Norquist.  Worth your time if you’re interested in his viewpoint on the city.

Thoughts From John Norquist

MilwaukeeWorld’s Mike Horne blogs about his afternoon with John Norquist, former Milwaukee mayor and now head of the Congress for the New Urbanism. A worthy read if you’re into Norquist’s view on New Urbanism or looking to reminisce about his time in office.

Let’s Dig A Hole

It looks like I’ll have new neighbors sooner rather than later, the construction of the Park East Square will start in November. The project will be free of city-financing assistance, the absence of which is credited as a reason for the reemergence of downtown according to former mayor John Norquist.

Buffett Tour on Hold

“Spirit – The Seventh Fire” has been put on hiatus.

McGee’s Folly

If you want to get a chuckle and a “no comment” out of a Milwaukee alderman these days, just tell him that Ald. Michael McGee, Jr. “certainly has a way with words.”

Riemer: “Ready to Run”

This terse note from Riemer almost sounds like a Bill Christofferson soundbite, which means it's a good one.

Kennedy Walks

Substantial Fine for Possession of Forged Artwork

City Hall Redo

Minority hiring goal set.

Broadband News – Thanks for Nothing

Access to the Wi-Fi zones requires a $19.95 per month membership in SBC DSL.

Mequon Turns Voter Away

The City of Mequon told a local man who tried to register and vote at City Hall last week that he was “too late.”

Feds Stop Funding School, Library Internet and Phone Service

Two months ago, the federal grants stopped.

A Chance to Speak Up for North Ave

"The Bronzeville project is one of the most important ventures ever planned for the 6th Aldermanic District, and I believe that it can be a dynamic, credible, and viable venue for the community."

Shepherd Figure to Run Madison Paper

Capital Papers Puts up the Capital

Morales V Darling Race Set

Milwaukee School Board member Jennifer Morales has decided to challenge Alberta Darling and her hold on the 8th Senate District Seat.

The Governor and the Empire Builder

The Inaugural

Marvin Pratt did not stand up with the crowd when Tom Barrett was inaugurated mayor, and the press has made a good deal of the slight. However, just after Judge Louis Butler administered the oath of office to the new mayor, Barrett’s first comments were to commend Pratt, and the former acting mayor did stand up and take a bow. The ceremonies were held April 20th outside of City Hall in some perfectly dreadful Milwaukee spring weather. So, who was the idiot who came up with that idea? “I’m the idiot who thought to hold it outside,” fessed up Kris Martinsek. After all, the president is inaugurated outdoors in January. However, January in Washington is not nearly as unpleasant as Milwaukee in April. The stage was set up on Wells Street, facing east. Upon the stage sat Milwaukee’s new leaders, including the mayor, the common council, the comptroller, treasurer, city attorney, city clerk and a municipal judge. Their families sat out in the street and in the adjacent park next to the Frank P. Zeidler Municipal Building. Frank P. Zeidler was there himself, sandwiched between Marvin Pratt and Senator Herb Kohl. Kohl was dressed as he always is around here. He wore a shirt, a tie, a Milwaukee Bucks cap and a windbreaker. Except for the tie, he pretty much looked like the guy who harvests aluminum cans from my recycling bin. If he tried to walk on to the floor of the United States Senate in that getup, the sergeant-at-arms would toss him out. But this is Milwaukee, the “come as you are” capital of America, and he fit right in. Barrett has made a list of 18 things he wants to accomplish in his first hundred days in office. I don’t know if reducing the police overtime budget is one of them, but the men in blue were certainly racking up the hours during the interminable ceremony. The aldermen were sworn in sequentially according to district. Each alderman then gave a little speech. The last district, the 15th, is occupied by Willie Hines, who is now the Common Council president. He then gave a big speech. He began by saying, “my ascent to the Council Presidency is not a compromise or consolation prize for the African-American community.” This was an effective way to defuse speculation that his election was a compromise or consolation prize, and was a rather sharp thing to do. Hines also insisted that corruption will not taint his council. (We’ll check back on that in four years.) His delivery was generally quite good, and had a hint of religious fervor to it. Moments earlier, he did have a slip up. When Valarie Hill was about to be sworn in as municipal judge, Hines said, “The City Clerk will now come to the altar – er, the podium – to take the oath.” Also, when Hines introduced the new mayor he called him “Mayor Marvin Pratt – er, Mayor Barrett.” These things happen. The Common Council […]

My Campaign Blog

Two hundred fifty bucks or a free press pass?

Pratt’s “Reimbursement” Mystery Money

Acting Mayor Pockets $7,500 with no explanation

“Legacy, Schmegacy”

John O. Norquist, in his final days as mayor, talked about the things that mattered to him. (His legacy wasn’t one of them.) Also: the man who could have beat him in 1992 – and, about that new job in Chicago

Bobot Calls for Term Limit

Vince Bobot plans to request a change in the City Charter to limit the term of Milwaukee Mayor to two consecutive terms.

Krug Scores Joint Finance Seat

Rep. Shirley Krug was chosen Monday to take a seat on the influential Joint Committee on Finance

The Embarrassing Failure of Miller Park

The Milwaukee Brewers have begun the season with a horrendous start, one that is setting franchise records for futility.

Why Jim Ryan Could Be In Trouble

Speaking as someone who predicted the one-two finish of Scott Walker and Jim Ryan, the big surprise of the county executive race was Tyrone Dumas' strong fourth place finish, just behind Tom Nardelli.

Why Scott McCallum Is In Big Trouble

It was amusing to see the photo of Gov. McCallum that ran on the front page of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel last week.

Has the Teacher’s Union Taken Over the GOP?

It was not long ago that the state teacher's union was the designated villain for Republicans.

Why Gov. McCallum’s Spending Priorities Were Wrong

As the legislature wrestles with the state budget deficit, there has been talk of cutting every level of government except the schools.

Is Nardelli Qualified To Be County Executive?

Nothing should surprise us about county government at this point, but it does seem odd that the two favorites in the race for county executive are Scott Walker and Tom Nardelli, neither of whom has a college degree.

Can Falk And Thompson Play Spoilers in the Governor’s Race?

I'm hard pressed to think of a more interesting state race than the upcoming campaign for governor.

The Bitter Feud Between the Bradley Center and Wisconsin Center

The "negotiations" by the Bradley Center and the Wisconsin Center District have begun to resemble the feud between the Hatfields and McCoys.

The Milwaukee School Board’s Incumbent Protection Plan

Consultant Fred Kessler drew up a redistricting plan that would carve out a Hispanic school board district, but almost no one on the board seems to support the idea.

How Scott McCallum Plans to Raise Your Taxes

Sometime in the coming week, Gov. Scott McCallum will be meeting secretly with lobbyists in Minocqua, of all places, to discuss a plan to cut school spending and force property tax increases as a way to balance the state budget.

Could The Brewers Benefit If Minnesota Loses Its Team?

Baseball commissioner Bud Selig has scoffed at complaints from Twin Cities newspapers that eliminating a baseball team there would benefit the Milwaukee Brewers.

How Mayor Norquist’s Salary Cut Lowers Property Taxes

John Norquist styles himself as a budget cutter, but few are aware of how personally he has taken that mission.

Can New President Darnell Cole Rescue MATC?

Not long after arriving in town, new MATC president Darnell Cole called Greater Milwaukee Committee President Bob Milbourne and asked to meet.

Where Have You Gone, Ken Lamke?

Ken Lamke still has vivid memories of the atmosphere in the old Milwaukee Sentinel newsroom.

Superintendent Burmaster Slaps The Governor Around

My, how times have changed.

Why Businesses Are Attacking The State’s Freeway Plan

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation's latest freeway project could "virtually suffocate downtown Milwaukee," a letter from the Downtown Business Improvement District complains.

Why Chief Jones Won’t Go Away

Tom Everson has seen everything in the many years he's compiled crime statistics for the state's Office of Justice Assistance, but he is struck by the data he's getting from the City of Milwaukee.

Is Superintendent Korte In Trouble With The School Board?

At first glance, Milwaukee school superintendent Spence Korte looks like he could be on the chopping block.

Figueroa Accused Another Man of Sex Harassment

For months I've been hearing rumblings that Marilyn Figueroa had accused another man of sexual harassment.

Rally ‘Round the Convention Center, Boys

It was a mere three years ago that the Midwest Express Center opened, as a state-of-the-art solution to the city's convention needs.

Is the State Legislature Still a Men’s Club?

It was the gunfight at the Capitol corral and only men were invited.

Antonio Riley’s Campaign Coffer Looks Mayoral

News reports have made much of the money raised by Ald. Marvin Pratt and Ald. Tom Nardelli, speculating about their chances for mayor.

Why The Mayor is Not Dead

Back in the early 1980s, Milwaukee Magazine ran a scathing caricature of Mayor Henry Maier with the title "What Does This Man Do All Day?"

Why the State Doesn’t Hate Tom Ament Any More

Time was when Milwaukee County was a favorite whipping boy of the state.

Will A New Soccer Stadium Help or Hurt the Bucks?

The proposal to build a soccer stadium downtown adds another complication to what has become a political minefield around the proposed Bradley Center renovation.

Milwaukee’s Mighty Economy Crushes Other Nations

Milwaukee has a new way to brag about itself.

Is the Plankinton Exit Worth $60 Million?

Some months ago the state Department of Transportation announced a plan for rebuilding the mammoth Marquette Interchange that did not include any exits or entrances at Plankinton Avenue

Why Are Homeowners Subsidizing Cable TV?

Republican and Democrats can't agree on much, as they squabble over the state budget, but both parties seem to think that AOL Time Warner needs a tax break.

Is Wisconsin Short-Changed By Its Top Foundation?

With the resignation of Michael Joyce, the Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation is looking for a new president.

Is Mayor Norquist Sleeping on School Choice?

In the London Times, Mayor John Norquist is prominently quoted in a story on Milwaukee's school choice program.

Gary George’s Plot to Kill the Comptroller

State budget deliberations are a time for mischief making, and state Sen. Gary George (D-Milwaukee) has always had a reputation for quietly slipping pet proposals into this biennial document.

Personal Foul – Norquist Loses Points With the Business Community

The Greater Milwaukee Committee thinks it's found a way to get more revenue for the Milwaukee Bucks.

State Secrets: What’s In the File on Figueroa and Norquist

There is damaging information about Mayor John Norquist in the state files related to the investigation of Marilyn Figueroa's sexual harassment complaint.

Did Marilyn Want Millions From The Mayor?

Marilyn Figueroa never wanted money from the mayor

That’s Incredible – Why Marilyn’s Story Can’t Be Believed

I don't claim to know who's right in the vicious dispute between Marilyn Figueroa and John Norquist.