MILWAUKEE | Development News

[Markitect]

Another historic building at the former Pabst brewery is being sold. An investors group named BC Pabst Holdings is planning to buy "Building 14" (the former Pabst research lab) and plan to rehabilitate its three floors into offices and the penthouse into a conference room. They plan to apply for historic tax credits to help pay for the rehab work. According to the group, there are already three interested possible tenants, undisclosed so far, all of which come from the Milwaukee area.

BC Pabst Holdings consists of Matt Chmura, his brother Mark Chmura (formerly of the Green Bay Packers), and Sonny Bando (son of former Milwaukee Brewers player/manager Sal Bando). The group also already owns two other historic buildings in Downtown Milwaukee--the Germania Building and the Iron Block.

Brewery Project Press Release: Local Firm to Buy Historic Research Building at Old Pabst Brewery (http://www.dailyreporter.com/pdf/pabst-110707.pdf) (PDF file)

Journal Sentinel: Investors buying old Pabst building - Complex's exposure to I-43 hailed as draw for prospective tenants (http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=683823)

Business Journal: Local investors purchase former Pabst lab (http://www.bizjournals.com/milwaukee/stories/2007/11/05/daily26.html?jst=b_ln_hl)

Daily Reporter: Fourth Pabst Brewery building sold (http://www.dailyreporter.com/item.cfm?recid=20047068&snippet=f)

[Markitect]

Developer Afshin Ghazi announced the first tenant for Catalyst today at the Small Business Times Commercial Real Estate and Development Conference. Bar Management Group (of Charlotte, North Carolina, which is also where Ghazi's development company is from) has a concept for an upscale bowling alley, called Big City Lanes, that will have around 18 lanes and occupy between 20,000 and 25,000 square feet.

Ghazi also hopes to attract 5-7 other entertainment concepts and 4 upscale restaurants to Catalyst, thereby creating a compact entertainment district within close proximity to major draws such as the convention center, hotels, and the Shops of Grand Avenue mall.

More info about what was covered at the conference from the Small Business Times: Ghazi project lands upscale bowling alley tenant (http://www.biztimes.com/daily/2007/11/8/ghazi-project-lands-upscale-bowling-alley-tenant)

[Nowhereman1280]

^^^ Good news all around! Thanks for actually posting in this thread!

I am still really excited about Catalyst, should really help out downtown. What is the plan for the Pabst Brewery right now? I lost track of what was happening there after I moved down here for school.

[Markitect]

What is the plan for the Pabst Brewery right now? I lost track of what was happening there after I moved down here for school.

Check out the articles I posted yesterday; some of them give a rundown of what's going on as far as the buildings that already have plans for conversions (live/work lofts, offices, retail shops) plus some possible future plans for other buildings that are still being worked out (job training center, hotel, international trade center showroom). Also head over to The Brewery Project website (http://www.thebrewerymke.com) for more information.

[BelmontGrad99]

Although I lived in Nashville, TN from 1996-2006, and currently in Chicago, it is GREAT watching the city re-develop itself. Milwaukee is my favorite city (born and raised), and I enjoy reading the posts.

While I like the condo boom in Milwaukee, what is happening to the business development downtown? Milwaukee really needs large corporate companies in its downtown area to create more jobs, and those nice 65 floor + skyscrapers!

It's great to see Milwaukee growing, finally!

[BelmontGrad99]

Does Milwaukee have any serious plans for a rail system? A rail system will definitely bring more business to the CBD.

[Twoaday]

BelmontGrad99> To some extent I disagree on needing large corporate companies in downtown. Corporations are so undependable, hell we may loose Miller!, it would be better for Milwaukee to find a new niche, possible in green tech, and help many smaller companies grow.

Well the rail plans run into one political hurdle after another... and I'm with you Milwaukee needs modern rail.

[Nowhereman1280]

Does Milwaukee have any serious plans for a rail system? A rail system will definitely bring more business to the CBD.

They are currently deciding over whether to make light rail or stupid "guided buses" though neither are being built for sure yet.

Stupid County government messing things up, we need light rail if we are ever going to be taken seriously.

[i_am_hydrogen]

I can't wait to see this when I visit Milwaukee for Thanksgiving. It's hard to believe that old hell-hole of a station is forever gone.

The old station (by John December)
http://www.december.com/places/mke/images/amtrak.jpg

The new (by Tom Lynn/Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel)
http://graphics.jsonline.com/graphics/news/img/nov07/amtrak_111207_big.jpg

From the bones of a mid-century dud, a gleaming gem arises
Posted: Nov. 11, 2007
Whitney Gould

At night, when its prismatic glass face and bold, diagonal beams are awash with light, you have to pinch yourself: Can this possibly be Milwaukee's old Amtrak station?

Well, yes and no. The bones of the 1965 station are still there. But the railroad depot, now the "Milwaukee Intermodal Station," has had a $16.9 million makeover so breathtaking that passengers who knew this only as a decrepit eyesore must wonder if they're really in Milwaukee.

http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=684930

[Jesus in a Geo]

The new station is outstanding, but it's continuing what I think is a trend that needs to reversed, or at least slowed. That trend? Whiteness!

It seems like every major project built in the city since 2000 is a certain shade of white, off-white, eggshell white, etc. The Calatrava Edition to the MAM, the 6th street viaduct bridge, the University Club Tower, and now the intermodal station and the Moderne, if it gets built. These are arguably the most significant structures the city has built in the last decade and they are ALL white. Milwaukee really lacks architectural flare in regard to color. It often seems as if cream city brick or pure, unadulterated whiteness is the only way to go.

[Nowhereman1280]

That Amtrak station is absolutely gorgeous, every time I come home I look forward to being able to pass through it. It is truly very well done, open and spacious, yet it feels comfortable and warm as well.


I personally don't mind the white trend. I really like it actually, I think it really gives Milwaukee a sharp, modern theme and look. I also think that you can group US Bank into the white theme even though its like 30 years old. Also, the Pier Wisconsin building is white, sharp, and modern, a look which is very fitting for the new Milwaukee, one that focuses on technology, healthcare, and services, not Manufacturing and Beer (ok, maybe we can keep the beer one).

I was personally hoping that the Marquette Interchange would have been painted white like the 6th street bridge, but I guess Blue and Gold (Marquette colors) is more fitting.

[Tom In Chicago]

Jesus in a Geo - The new station is outstanding, but it's continuing what I think is a trend that needs to reversed, or at least slowed. That trend? Whiteness!

Milwaukee is known as the "Cream City" after all. . .

[blazertke]

haven't lived in milwaukee for 5 years. but its good to see they're still working on the river walk

below are some pics i took this past week end in Mil-town

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v467/blazertke/11-13-2007-24a.jpg
view from brewers hill

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v467/blazertke/11-13-2007-12a.jpg
Columbia St Mary's

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v467/blazertke/11-13-2007-15a.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v467/blazertke/11-13-2007-14a.jpg
Park Lafayette
--------------------------------------------------------------------------

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v467/blazertke/11-13-2007-23a.jpg
Site work has begun on "The EDGE"
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v467/blazertke/11-13-2007-22b.jpg
rendering of the edge - croped photo of the billbord
--------------------------------------------------------------------------

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v467/blazertke/11-13-2007-16a.jpg
proposed building on Lake Dr. - St. John on the Lake
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http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v467/blazertke/11-13-2007-19b.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v467/blazertke/11-13-2007-18a.jpg
the Pfister continues to go down
--------------------------------------------------------------------------

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v467/blazertke/11-13-2007-28a.jpg
some more river walk condos
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http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v467/blazertke/breakwater1.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v467/blazertke/breakwater2.jpg
Break water condos - a scan of their on site pamphlet.
Site work has started on this condo, and i got a picture of it but it was to dark out to get a good shot.

[Nowhereman1280]

^^^ Wow, thanks for that, I never heard of that St. John's expansion, is that new? Looks to be more than 12 floors and a decent design as well!

I love all of the new infill Milwaukee is getting, espeically along the river near brewer's hill and the Third Ward. I wish Chicago got stuff of this quality with that kind of modern, edgy design too!

I think it may be my goal to live in one of those sweet, modern, riverside townhomes some day.

[Markitect]

Yes, the St. John's expansion tower is a relatively new proposal from this past year.

[BelmontGrad99]

:banana:

I read an article (sorry can't remember where...), that said Scott Walker, the guy who mainly opposes light rail, and the Mayor have called a truce with their differences on light rail for Milwaukee. What that means is, according to the article, a committee will consider both plans (Walker/Mayor) when discussing light rail for the city. Great news for Milwaukee! Should a feasible rail plan be implemented soon, every resident in the metro area will be able to enjoy downtown Milwaukee! "build it and they will come"

[Nowhereman1280]

^^^ Hurray! Find that article, I hope that light rail wins over those stupid Guided Buses!!!

[Markitect]

I read an article (sorry can't remember where...), that said Scott Walker, the guy who mainly opposes light rail, and the Mayor have called a truce with their differences on light rail for Milwaukee. What that means is, according to the article, a committee will consider both plans (Walker/Mayor) when discussing light rail for the city. Great news for Milwaukee! Should a feasible rail plan be implemented soon, every resident in the metro area will be able to enjoy downtown Milwaukee! "build it and they will come"

I'm afraid that is not quite true anymore. Back in September, Walker and Barret did have a so-called "truce" on their competing transit proposals (County Executive Walker's cross-county bus rapid transit-only proposal, and Mayor Barrett's combination of a downtown streetcar loop and cross-county bus rapid transit proposal), and asked suburban politicians in joining them to discuss a more regional strategy for transit issues. That effort, however, lasted only a few weeks, literally, and nothing was really solved, no decisions were made, so the politicians disbanded. In other words, the truce was canceled.

The "committee" you're talking about is something completely different. It is the Milwaukee Connector Study Committee, whose job it is to evaluate various transit proposal options (originally for the Downtown area only, then it was expanded to encompass other parts of the the city) and make a recommendation to the Federal Transit Administration so the money that has already been earmarked for transit projects in Milwaukee can be "unlocked" and used to build whatever's being recommended. That is a local-based effort only, not regional in scope at all. So the committee is basically only advisory, it has not "teeth" to it at all, and cannot make any final decisions on what to do because the City, County, and State politicians all have to agree on what to use the money for.

So the Milwaukee Connector Study Committee has the job of analyzing Walker's BRT-only proposal Barrett's streetcar and BRT proposal, and also philanthropist Michael Cudahy's streetcar-only proposal. The committee will make a recommendation, but the actual local area decision-makers must come to an agreement before the Feds will consider anything.

More or less, the situation is a transit stalemate right now, as it has been for the past several years.

I hope that light rail wins over those stupid Guided Buses!!!

The electric guided buses (such as the Bombardier "guided light tram" and the Lohr Industries "Translohr") that were being recommended by the Milwaukee Connector Study Committee did not win the necessary votes from the City or County...so that option was eliminated well over a year ago.

[BelmontGrad99]

:notacrook:

Then you guys need to make sure those politicians are not elected for another term! If Milwauke doesn't get a light rail system soon, the new developments aimed at entertainment downtown, will soon be vacant buildings once again.

[BelmontGrad99]

:notacrook:

Check out this article about the benefits of the KRM Rail. I have a feeling that should this rail system succeed, Milwaukee will be more convinced that a rail system in the city can also be successful and beneficial.

http://www.sewisrta.org/pdfs/Community_economic_impact.pdf

[sensei]

I'm driving through downtown, heading east down Wisconsin Avenue.. what's up with those blue "holiday" lights?! Couldn't they go with red/green or white? Ugh..
It's like a few years ago they had these weird new age glowing cones in Cathedral Square. Who exactly is responsible for choosing this stuff? Those blazing blue lights are a total eyesore.

[Nowhereman1280]

Yeah, the Christmas decorations in Milwaukee this year are pretty rancid and over the top...

[ajknee]

I have to say that I really like the blue lights. I think they're quite beautiful. As for the lights in the parks...UGH! They are EXTREMELY tacky, and the city's tree is shameful. The lights look like they were just thrown up haphazardly. I, too, would like to know who's responsible for this.

[sensei]

Downtown Milwaukee seems to have a hard time with decorating for the holidays. There was a time during the 1990's when there was virtually nary any Xmas lights. Everything was boarded up. I have to give them credit for trying to be more festive over the recent years. But they really kind of over did it this year.
I guess I rather have them over do it than have nothing at all.:rolleyes:

[Jesus in a Geo]

I was back in town for Thanksgiving and I actually liked the decorations.

[Twoaday]

Check it out the North End demolition is finally about done.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2359/2057912947_b682a15ef7.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davereid/2057912947/)

[Markitect]

The Small Business Times recently featured an update on the proposed addition for the St. John's on the Lake senior residential complex along N. Prospect Avenue. The 20-story tower, which is planned to have about 100 upscale apartments available for seniors, will be built on a surface parking lot adjacent to the existing facility. There are various community spaces planned for the ground level (fitness room, swimming pool, art gallery, bistro, etc.) which will connect to the existing buildings.

St. John's recently began taking registrations for the units in the new tower, and will need about 70 confirmations before being able to move forward. St. john's hopes to be able to break ground in spring/summer of 2008 and have residents move in by late-2009/early-2010.

http://img123.imageshack.us/img123/5268/stjohnstowerwb4.jpg
^ This rendering shows the lakebluff side of the St. John's on the Lake senior residential complex, with the new tower on the left and the existing facility on the right. The main entrance would be through a courtyard overlooking the lake, as opposed to Prospect Avenue.

More from the SBT: St. John’s plans 20-story senior apartment tower (http://www.biztimes.com/news/2007/11/23/st-johns-plans-20-story-senior-apartment-tower)

[Miltown_Hero]

Anybody know what's being built across from Whole Foods on North Ave? It used to be a gas station...

[ajknee]

Oooh...ooohh.....I really want to know too. Wasn't that parcel purchased by the same people who bought out the Prospect Mall?

[Nowhereman1280]

^^^ Wow that thing has been abandoned forever! Have they torn it down yet? I can't wait to see a real, useful, building built there, such a waste of space on the prime district of North Avenue!

[Twoaday]

It's my understanding that it will be a small (maybe 1 story) retail building. Nothing interesting, the developer apparently had no vision or interest in building some great on that corner.

[Twoaday]

Hey I snapped a photo of the Residences on Water on construction... doesn't look like they came to a hault (like the city) because of lack of snow removal.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2297/2095075628_5c5a871cfe.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davereid/2095075628/)

[Tom In Chicago]

Hmm. . . precast construction. . . not something you see every day in this part of the world. . . at least for high rise buildings. . .

[Nowhereman1280]

^^^ Yeah very interesting, does anybody have a render of this building? Where exactly on Water is it?

I hear you have got a lot of snow up there right now with more on the way, hopefully it will still be there when I come home for Christmas so I can have a legitimately white Christmas...

[Twoaday]

This building's website is http://theresidencesonwater.com/

And it will on Water and Juneau right next door to Bar Louie

[mbradleyc]

Did anyone see that the guy who is trying to build the Rivianna hasn't paid his loan for building a couple other projects and is being sued? That is not encouraging.

http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=693741

[Twoaday]

Yea that's unfortunate and my guess is that the problem stems from not selling enough River Renaissance (only 55% sold). And the problem there is that the units are very odd. Strange layout and exposed duct work without high ceilings.

[Evergrey]

wow... the Staybridge looks awesome!

[i_am_hydrogen]

An additional rendering of Moderne that was posted at SSC:
http://www.themoderne.net/images/Moderne_112607RGBlarge.jpg

[Nowhereman1280]

There was a picture of the construction on the Staybridge suites on Water today in the business section of the Journal Sentinel. Check it out.

[Complex01]

Oh that rendering of the Moderne looks really nice. Very kewl...

:cool:

[MequonWI]

What the hell is the vantage point in that picture? I would love to see a rendering that showed how it would fit in in comparison with the new development of Sidney High across the street and 3rd Street in general.

[Markitect]

What the hell is the vantage point in that picture? I would love to see a rendering that showed how it would fit in in comparison with the new development of Sidney High across the street and 3rd Street in general.

The vantage point in the Moderne rendering is looking southwest from W. Juneau Avenue and N. Old World Third Street. Pay no attention to the background, however, as it is just a generic cityscape in that particular rendering.

If you scroll back several pages/months in this thread, you will find some earlier Moderne renderings, with the building properly placed amongst the actual Milwaukee cityscape.

[BelmontGrad99]

The Moderne pictures with the real background can be found on page 48 of this forum.

I am coming home next weekend! Can anyone compile a list of neighborhoods/streets to visit so that I can take pictures of the new developments in the city?:banana:

[Twoaday]

It has been a bit quiet around here so I thought I'd post some of my updated project photos

The Edge

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2271/2192816853_cf957ce237.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davereid/2192816853/)

The Breakwater

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2353/2193598032_dbfcb915be.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davereid/2193598032/)

The Residences on Water

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2158/2173775694_424cec9348.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davereid/2173775694/)

First Place on the River near completion and open for business

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2285/2173815580_48a610db53.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davereid/2173815580/)

[ajknee]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2271/2192816853_cf957ce237.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davereid/2192816853/)

Ooh, I didn't realize the Edge was under construction. I'm so excited.

But when, oh when, will someone redevelop that site across the river. It's the perfect location, surrounded by multi-million dollar condos, and the biggest eyesore on the river. That land must be SUPER toxic or something.

[Twoaday]

Yea I'm pretty sure that sight has been bought and sold a couple of times.. but oh yea that could be a really great development one day.

[Markitect]

Ooh, I didn't realize the Edge was under construction. I'm so excited.

But when, oh when, will someone redevelop that site across the river. It's the perfect location, surrounded by multi-million dollar condos, and the biggest eyesore on the river. That land must be SUPER toxic or something.

That site was an old tannery, so there is likely some issues with environmental remediation that must be tackled before it can be redeveloped. There are, however, plans in the works for a residential development, Gallun Gardens, on the site.

[blazertke]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2285/2173815580_48a610db53.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davereid/2173815580/)

great shot twoaday

unfortunately though, it reminds me why i left mil-town for the sunshine state

[Nowhereman1280]

Thanks for the pictures twoaday! I really like First Place on the River, isn't that built using the frame from an old warehouse? I used to have a secret parking spot in front of that building that I knew would always be free and open all day long. I used to use it for Summerfest parking until one of my Friends bought a place near there and then I would just use their parking lot.

I have some pictures of the new Milwaukee Intermodal Station from the other night that I will be posting soon, probably tomorrow night.

[Twoaday]

Yup now it is like 180 condos and at least one of the restaurant/bars has opened... Luna. It's going to be a very cool place to check out during the summer.

[Twoaday]

The Residences on Water
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2327/2223723711_cfc512a412.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davereid/2223723711/)

Park Lafayette is really starting to rise.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2025/2224467142_b7c20d64f4.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davereid/2224467142/)

[Nowhereman1280]

I believe the Intermodal Station is complete now.

Milwaukee Intermodal Station:

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc252/nowhereman1280/January%2018%202008/P1090147.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc252/nowhereman1280/January%2018%202008/P1090144.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc252/nowhereman1280/January%2018%202008/P1090146.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc252/nowhereman1280/January%2018%202008/P1090149.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc252/nowhereman1280/January%2018%202008/P1090139.jpg

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc252/nowhereman1280/January%2018%202008/P1090138.jpg

Gorgeous at night!

[ajknee]

ACK! That light on the 6th street viaduct has been out for months now. I really wished they'd replaced it before all these reporters took photos announcing the opening of the station.

[Oshkosh49]

great shot twoaday

unfortunately though, it reminds me why i left mil-town for the sunshine stateSome less than positive news regarding the "First Place on the River" condominiums.
http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=713482

[BelmontGrad99]

Does anyone have recent information about the entertainment complex planned for 4th and Wisconsin?

:banana:

[Markitect]

Does anyone have recent information about the entertainment complex planned for 4th and Wisconsin?


The latest news on Catalyst (http://www.catalystmilwaukee.com) was posted in this thread a couple months back. There hasn't been any new news announced since then, but that doesn't mean progress isn't being made--the developer continues to work out the details for the proposal (design work, tenant search, obtaining financing, etc.).

[BelmontGrad99]

The Catalyst will be GREAT for downtown Milwaukee! From what I can remember, that part on Wisconsin Ave wasn't much to look at years ago.

Build it and they will come.
:notacrook:

[Twoaday]

http://www.biztimes.com/realestateweekly/2008/2/13/ghazi-cos-charlotte-project-progresses

Here is the key quote "We're plugging along," he said. "We're getting our construction pricing. We do plan to break ground this year." - Armin Ghazi.

[Twoaday]

The Edge

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2245/2268047216_b296af786c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davereid/2268047216/)


The Breakwater

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2250/2268053734_14b040eda9.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davereid/2268053734/)

[CGII]

Is it just me or was Breakwater just an infantile proposal like, yesterday? This thing is really springing up quickly.

[Twoaday]

Yea Renner seems to have easy access to money and good sales... so they get things going quick.

[mbradleyc]

Probably doesn't announce before it's ready, either.:tup:

[Twoaday]

Park Lafeyette Pics

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3088/2289665086_b54e77445e.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davereid/2289665086/)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2284/2289665764_98f2cdd165.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davereid/2289665764/)

[Nowhereman1280]

Oh wow, is that brick base part of Park Lafayette? That looks real slick and should provide a good pedestrian interface for such large buildings in a widely low-rise neighborhood! My complements to the architect!

[Markitect]

Oh wow, is that brick base part of Park Lafayette?

Yes. They will be tonwhomes and retail space that conceal part of the parking garage behind.

[Nowhereman1280]

Very nice, that's something they don't do enough down here in Chicago. I miss Milwaukee and can't wait to get back there next week over my break!

[Twoaday]

nowhere> Exactly with the brick base it allows the building to fit the character of the neighborhood and with the stepback keeps the building pedestrian scale along Prospect.

[Twoaday]

Here comes the Breakwater!

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2141/2309859953_a88ec65823.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davereid/2309859953/)

[Milwaukee, WY]

Here comes the Breakwater!

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2141/2309859953_a88ec65823.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davereid/2309859953/)

...Hideous as it will be...:hell:

[Twoaday]

I one of the SSP or SSC sites somebody mentioned walking on the new Riverwalk over at First Place... well check it out:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3199/2335343309_af3d6b889c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davereid/2335343309/)

[mbradleyc]

That doesn't look like the Mary Miss design in the Third Ward. Too bad.

[Twoaday]

"That doesn't look like the Mary Miss design in the Third Ward. Too bad." I'm sorry the Mary Miss design?

[mbradleyc]

She did the original design.

http://www.eadp.com/#/news/press/6/

[GoBrewers]

Agreed that portion looks more like the northern riverwalk sections i.e. Trostel Square area. Any improvement that gives the public more access to the river is a great asset to the city though.

[GoBrewers]

Actually thinking about that site why wouldn’t Engberg Anderson carry out Mary Miss design seeing how they design for Mandel?

[Markitect]

The RiverWalk has been purposely designed so that different segments have their own character and appearance depending on the neighborhood:

Downtown - Traditional aesthetic (harp lights, concrete & steel, cast metal decorative railings, etc.), mostly hardscaped, and so forth.

Beerline - Modern/residential aesthetic (concrete & steel, modern railings and lighting, softer/greener landscaping)

Third Ward - Modern industrial/natural aesthetic (wooden boardwalks & steel, more modern fixtures, less rigid/more organic lines)

Walker's Point - Modern aesthetic, concrete & steel, pole & wire railings, etc.)


First Place on the River, being in Walker's Point, didn't carry out the Mary Miss design because there was no Mary Miss design to carry out. She was hired for the Third Ward segment only, which of course, is an entirely different neighborhood.

The variety of colors, textures, fixtures, details, finishes, etc. between the various segments of RiverWalk makes for a more interesting experience, rather than a three-mile long, monotonous appearance of having everything being the same.

[Twoaday]

Oh gotcha... didn't see understand... Yea the First Place Riverwalk is a bit on the cheap compare to across the river. But I'm still interested to see how it fills in.. and want to check out Cafe Luna soon.

[GoBrewers]

Thanks for the explanation that really makes sense and is a pretty nice idea of how to develop the riverwalk as not to be uniform.
Two new questions I have been pondering with reference to Milwaukee development has to do with the opening of The Residences on Water and Juneau on the site it says occupancy Summer…are they going to finish one section for summer for occupancy dose anyone know? Also dose anyone have any updates on the development of the site running along the river on Pleasant and Commerce?

[Markitect]

the opening of The Residences on Water and Juneau on the site it says occupancy Summer…are they going to finish one section for summer for occupancy dose anyone know?

No, occupancy will happen once the whole building is finished, which ought to be sometime this summer. The construction technique being used on that building, with all the pre-cast pieces allows the building to go up relatively quickly.

The reason why the front section was built first, was so they could use the back of the site for a staging area--to work on assembling pieces before they are lifted into place, to store construction materials after they're delivered but were not ready to be put up yet, a place for the crane to operate, etc. Now that the front section has been completed, they are working on the back section of the site, so the staging area has been relocated out into the street.

Also dose anyone have any updates on the development of the site running along the river on Pleasant and Commerce?

They were seeking some design reviews and sewer easements from the City several months back.

I would also suspect that the developers have been waiting a while before breaking ground (since it was first proposed a couple years ago now) until there was a larger nearby residential base to support all of the retail that is planned to go there. And that residential base is on the way, what with the North End and The Edge under construction, and Union Point recently finished.

[Twoaday]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2073/2375679860_6c76c025b1.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davereid/2375679860/)

[GoBrewers]

It’s crazy I only live a block away and hadn’t noticed the progress they’ve made! Will this construction be similar to the precast construction they are using on The Renaissance on Water? Or are they only using Span Crete for the lower level for the parking garage segment?

[UrbanSchmurban]

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6656.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6658.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6663.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6664.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6668.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6670.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6671.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/pl1.jpg

[Nowhereman1280]

Nice Park Lafayette is really flying up. I'm glad to see the color of brick they are using isn't disgusting and should age well. I can't wait to see some glass! I think these have the potential to be some really classy buildings.

[UrbanSchmurban]

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6676.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6675.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6674.jpg

[ajknee]

Oh, Breakwater. What a majestic building you are. I cannot believe the speed at which you soar toward the heavens, proof that God himself came down and created your glorious splendor. Chicago, New York, Hong Kong must be consumed by loathing, envious of your regal stature. Hurriedly, they must formulate a more perfect design to overshadow you. Otherwise, they will most certainly face their demise. Oh, Breakwater. The way your terraces capture the pale Lake Michigan light is nothing less than divine. Tonight, I lay awake in bed, thinking of you. The greatest building of our time.

[UrbanSchmurban]

from the bike path

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/pano1.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6751.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6748.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6747.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6745.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6732.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6722.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6723.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6721.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6719.jpg

[UrbanSchmurban]

from the east

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6701.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6704.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6705.jpg

glass

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6706.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6708.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6711.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6710.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6712.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6714.jpg

sales center

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6713.jpg

from Prospect

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6717.jpg

[UrbanSchmurban]

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6756.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6757.jpg

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i200/phedipides/IMG_6760.jpg

[mbradleyc]

After 25 years of failed proposals, it sure is good to see something finally happen there.

[i_am_hydrogen]

Hell yes. Nice updates. It's hard to believe the eternally empty parcel on Prospect and Lafayette is being filled in by these high-rises.

[Twoaday]

The North End

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2011/2467390395_e242af550f.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davereid/2467390395/)


The Residences on Water

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3248/2468247550_594f4c8d6e.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davereid/2468247550/)

[ajknee]

Taken 5/6/08. Quick construction update.

Park Lafayette:

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f99/ajknee/DSC02720.jpg

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f99/ajknee/DSC02726.jpg

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f99/ajknee/DSC02727.jpg

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f99/ajknee/DSC02728.jpg

Flatiron (complete?):

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f99/ajknee/DSC02741.jpg

The North End:

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f99/ajknee/DSC02745.jpg

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f99/ajknee/DSC02871.jpg

Staybridge/Residences on Water (What's the official name of this building?):

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f99/ajknee/DSC02747.jpg

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f99/ajknee/DSC02850.jpg

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f99/ajknee/DSC02862.jpg




In other news, Warner Brothers has a bunch of cables headed into the Milwaukee County Historical Society for the production of "Public Enemies" starring Johnny Depp:

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f99/ajknee/DSC02852.jpg

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f99/ajknee/DSC02851.jpg

[i_am_hydrogen]

Some beautiful modernism may be coming to Park East:

Office buildings likely would house Associated Banc-Corp

http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=749851

Very lengthy article on this! Its part of our old friend:
http://graphics.jsonline.com/graphics/news/img/may08/marcus_vert_051308_big.jpg
http://graphics.jsonline.com/graphics/news/img/may08/marcus_051308_big.jpg
http://img175.imageshack.us/img175/6164/b6123eh0.jpg

[Twoaday]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3141/2550703475_5f45516fec.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davereid/2550703475/)

[mbradleyc]

The other place is down, so I'll put this here for now.


WEDNESDAY, June 18, 2008, 7:39 a.m.
By Mark Schaaf

Rezoning paves way for hotel
The West Allis Common Council Tuesday approved a zoning change for 9.1 acres of State Fair Park land as Milwaukee Mile owners work to develop a hotel.

The move changes the land from a commercial district to State Fair land. The Milwaukee Mile had planned to buy and develop the property, located on the southeast portion of the Fair Park grounds along Greenfield Avenue, but will instead lease the land from the state.

Plans for call the construction of a 104-room hotel and a racing-themed restaurant, Quaker Steak and Lube, near the Milwaukee Mile.

Though the project has been delayed for years, Development Director John Stibal said he expects the hotel to be completed by next spring.

[bjkeys321]

Does anybody here know any updates on the Lake Pointe, or Wells towers?
I saw the idea of the Wells Tower and basically cheered aloud. The skyline will be magnificent! The Lake Pointe tower looks more probable though, I think they should have picked a different location for the building though.

[Twoaday]

I don't think I've heard of the Wells tower which strikes me as odd. And as far as LPT my gut says its not going to happen.... The closest was a year or so back when they almost landed a tenant but at this point I'm not holding my breath.

[Markitect]

Does anybody here know any updates on the Lake Pointe, or Wells towers?
I saw the idea of the Wells Tower and basically cheered aloud. The skyline will be magnificent! The Lake Pointe tower looks more probable though, I think they should have picked a different location for the building though.

Wells Tower (http://skyscraperpage.com/cities/?buildingID=47903) is an imaginary/fantasy building drawn for fun, as a hobby, by one of the forumers here at SSP. It is not a real proposal at all.

Lake Pointe Tower is an actual proposed building for Milwaukee. However it is a long ways off from ever being built at this point, if at all. In order to be built, the developers have to find enough tenants willing to lease office space, enough residents to buy condos, and an actual confirmed owner/operator for the hotel that is proposed for the building. In addition to that, they would also need to get financing to build it.

[Twoaday]

Markitect> Thanks I was really wondering what the Wells thing was... Funny a fantasy project.