Rivianna gains committee approval (11:51 a.m. 7/21/09)

Published: July 21, 2009

Sean Ryan
sean.ryan@dailyreporter.com

The proposed 15-story Rivianna apartment and hotel project in Milwaukee cleared a Common Council committee despite objections from one alderman.

The estimated $80 million project developed by Rivianna Development Group LLC, Milwaukee, would be on the south side of the Milwaukee River. Alderman Robert Bauman, who represents the Third Ward district on the opposite shore of the river, said the city should not approve the project until the city drafts a comprehensive plan for the area.

Alderman James Witkowiak, who represents the district on the south side, disagreed, saying his district should not be expected to conform to design requirements in the Third Ward. 

Milwaukee’s Zoning, Neighborhoods and Development Committee approved the project with a 3-1 vote, with Bauman casting the dissenting vote. The full Common Council is to consider the project during its July 28 meeting.

The project is expected to create 1,000 jobs and would comply with Milwaukee hiring and contracting requirements the city will begin to apply on its public contracts Aug. 8.