Committee recommends approval of street renaming in honor of Dr. Lester Carter

The Public Works Committee during yesterday’s meeting (Wednesday, September 27) recommended approval of file #211930 – an ordinance renaming North 24th Street, from West Keefe Avenue to West Center Street, North Dr. Lester Carter Drive in the 7^th, 6^th and 15^th Aldermanic Districts. The file was sponsored by Alderman Khalif J. Rainey, and co-sponsored by Alderwoman Milele A. Coggs and Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II

Dr. Lester Carter, who passed away in January 2022, was one of the longest-serving African-American pharmacists in the country and was considered to be many Milwaukeeans’ first doctor. Dr. Carter became a community anchor and icon, offering critical healthcare advice, including herbal remedies, to his customers in the Amani neighborhood for 47 years.

“Dr. Carter made such a tremendous impact on the lives of so many people throughout Milwaukee. His store on 24^th and Burleigh was well known throughout the African-American community, and his warm demeanor and helpful nature supported people through tough times,” said Alderman Rainey. “In light of the impact made by Dr. Carter, this street renaming is one way in which we can honor his legacy not only as a healer, but as a community pillar who made everyone around him better.”

The file will be before the full Common Council for adoption at its next regularly scheduled meeting at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, October 10.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.