MILWAUKEE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
Redevelopment Strategy, Havenwoods/Mill Road and Industrial Road Study Area

S. B. Friedman & Company was engaged by the Milwaukee Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) to prepare a redevelopment strategy with recommended specific development projects for a study area located on Milwaukee ’s North Side. The study area consists of four square miles, and contains a mix of residential (mostly single-family and duplex), neighborhood retail, and industrial uses. Approximately 200 acres of vacant industrially zoned land is available. The interplay between residential neighborhoods and industrial development was an important issue in this area, as both residential and industrial users are concerned with potential land use conflicts and negative impacts of adjacent development. MEDC was interested in increasing the tax base, creating jobs, improving the environment, and enhancing the quality of life for area residents. A primary task of the study was to identify specific redevelopment projects and implementation strategies that can help lead to renewed growth of the area.

We were the lead firm on a team that included Teng & Associates, a design and engineering firm, and Cross Management Services, a community development consulting firm. The scope of our work included gathering significant input from neighborhood and business groups; economic and demographic analysis; market analysis for industrial, retail and residential uses; assessment of environmental and infrastructure issues and constraints; identification of key opportunity sites and projects and preparation of a general land use strategy; financial testing of key projects; and implementation and action steps.

Recommendations were provided on addressing the conflicts between industrial and residential conditions and home ownership, streetscape improvements, and signage/wayfinding to enhance the industrial area.