30 Million Project Spans 4,300 Feet Along Inner Harbor
Milwaukee’s waterfront development scenery is about to experience a seismic shift. The city is launching a Riverwalk expansion, the most ambitious to date, with a $45 million project set to reshape the Inner Harbor corridor.
This massive undertaking spans approximately 4,300 linear feet, which is nearly three-quarters of a mile. This makes it the longest single expansion ever in Milwaukee Riverwalk history.
The extension runs southward from Harbor View Plaza at the eastern end of E. Greenfield Avenue to South Kinnickinnic Avenue. It follows the Inner Harbor and Kinnickinnic River corridor.
This unprecedented expansion integrates riverwalk sustainability principles. The design incorporates nature-based improvements and fish habitat restoration systems.
The project creates critical connections between Harbor View Plaza and the Komatsu South Harbor Campus. It establishes a vital anchor for the region’s commercial development. Construction is anticipated to begin in 2025 following a project rebid process.
Urban ecology considerations drive the expansion’s planning efforts. Wetland areas and aquatic viewing spaces will feature ADA-accessible infrastructure.
These features are designed to enhance both environmental function and public engagement. They aim to connect people with natural waterfront habitats.
Federal Grant and TIF Funding Enable Two-Phase Construction Timeline
A $14.7 million federal grant from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation is the key funding source propelling Milwaukee’s Riverwalk expansion. This grant, secured through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, mandates the city cover 20% of the project costs as a match.
Milwaukee applied for this federal funding in spring 2024 after WisDOT announced its availability for state projects. The federal funding boosts existing Tax Incremental Financing (TIF) funds set aside for Harbor District redevelopment. Combined, these funds create a $45 million total project budget.
This strong financial backing supports an ambitious two-phase construction timeline to speed up project delivery. Phase I construction bidding begins in fall 2024, with groundbreaking slated for spring 2025. This phase will focus on the Riverwalk path, landscaping, and seating installations.
Phase II bidding will start after Phase I is completed. It will cover advanced amenities like river deck construction, a performance stage, and aquatic habitat installation. The Node area will provide public access to water and enhanced aquatic habitat features.
All construction must start within four years due to federal grant requirements. Project completion is scheduled for late 2026.
Community-Focused Design Features Enhance Milwaukee’s Waterfront Development
Community input has emerged as the driving force behind Milwaukee’s Riverwalk expansion design. This input has fundamentally reshaped how the city approaches waterfront development.
Extensive community feedback sessions with local residents, business improvement districts, and public development agencies have taken place. They have produced an inclusive design that prioritizes accessibility and diverse usage patterns.
The collaborative planning process addresses longstanding demands for safe, welcoming waterfront access. This ensures inclusivity across all demographic groups.
ADA-compliant infrastructure is a key feature of the design. Ramps, accessible bathrooms, and 15-foot-wide pathways accommodate users with varying mobility needs.
A multifunctional harbor theater provides shaded performance space. It supports daily community programming and public events.
A 3,000 square-foot aquatic habitat combines ecological restoration with recreational opportunities. This space is perfect for kayakers, families, and wildlife observers.
Educational interpretive signage creates learning opportunities. It helps connect residents with Milwaukee’s industrial and natural heritage.
Innovative technologies like virtual reality for site tours are transforming how stakeholders engage with the design features of such projects.
The inclusive design approach transforms traditional waterfront development. It prioritizes community stewardship over purely commercial interests.
This project establishes new standards for public space accessibility. It sets a precedent for urban riverfront projects everywhere.
Assessment
Milwaukee’s $45 million riverwalk expansion stands as a key moment for the city’s commercial real estate landscape. This 4,300-foot development reflects a robust municipal investment in waterfront assets.
Federal funding mechanisms and TIF financing showcase a coordinated institutional effort. The two-phase construction timeline aims to meet the growing demand for urban waterfront spaces.
Community-focused design elements are central to long-term value creation strategies. This infrastructure project fundamentally reshapes Milwaukee’s standing in the regional real estate market.
4 Responses
While Im all for development, isnt it better to use that $45M on social programs instead of a fancy waterfront? Just my two cents guys!
While the Riverwalk expansion sounds great, isnt $45M a bit too much? Could this funding not be used for addressing homelessness or improving schools?
Great that Milwaukee is expanding, but isnt $45M a bit rich for a Riverwalk? What about funding education or healthcare instead? Just food for thought.
Cool, but couldnt that $45M be better spent on education or healthcare? Why prioritize a riverwalk over basic needs? Just a thought.