Delayed Riverwalk path construction aided by $14.7M grant

The city of Milwaukee will receive a federally sourced grant to start building a long-awaited Riverwalk project.

The city received a $12.7 million grant from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation through its Transportation Alternative Program (TAP), according to the city development department. The TAP program is funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The funds will support the Milwaukee Harbor District Harbor View Riverwalk project, near the Komatsu Mining headquarters.

The project, introduced in 2022, will expand the Harbor View Plaza and redevelop a nearly mile-long pedestrian path along the Kinnickinnic River, with community space and restoration for natural habitat.

The grant will be combined with tax increment financing and project construction is expected to start in the spring of 2025. The city of Milwaukee Department of City Development will issue bids in the fall.

The first phase of construction includes the Riverwalk path itself, associated landscaping and seating areas, officials said. The second phase includes Riverwalk amenities, including a deck over the river, a live performance stage and a building with restrooms, officials added.

Phase two also includes “The Node,” a public space near the water with an aquatic habitat. There will be a second bid after Phase 1 and DCD officials added construction will continue to the end of 2026.

DCD worked on designs with SmithGroup, the Harbor District, Komatsu Mining Corporation and We Energies.

“The Department of City Development is proud to have spearheaded the successful application process that secured this significant federal funding for the City of Milwaukee,” said Lafayette Crump, the city development commissioner, in a statement. “This investment will enhance our city’s natural beauty while fostering community connections. Together with the state of Wisconsin and our local partners, we are building a brighter, more vibrant future for all Milwaukeeans,” he added.

WisDOT’s TAP program is supported by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which was signed by President Joe Biden in 2021. Officials said the city applied for the grant in the spring after WisDOT announced that program funding was available.

TAP projects require sponsors to pay 20% of approved project costs and projects must start within four years from the award date, according to the grant terms.

“I want to express our heartfelt gratitude to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and President Joe Biden for their generous support to bring the Milwaukee Harbor District Harbor View Riverwalk project to life,” Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson said in a statement. “Thanks to our many partnerships, this initiative is enhancing our waterways by providing a beautiful space for residents and visitors while simultaneously promoting local economic growth. Thank you for investing in Milwaukee’s future,” he added.