Federal Partners Boost Milwaukee Projects

News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Nov. 21, 2005

Contact:	Paul Vornholt, Mayor's Office
	(414) 286-2200

Federal Partners Boost Milwaukee Projects
$2 Million Will Ensure Enhanced Amtrak/Transit Hub in Milwaukee

Milwaukee, WI -- Mayor Tom Barrett thanked Senator Herb Kohl and Representative Gwen Moore for their partnership on key Milwaukee projects, a partnership that resulted in additional federal funds for some of the city's key initiatives. Both Rep. Moore and Sen. Kohl announced today more than $3.2 in federal appropriations for city projects.

"Both Senator Kohl and Congresswoman Moore are tremendous advocates for the citizens of Milwaukee and I thank them for their help and commitment to fighting for projects that will make a difference in the lives of many," said Mayor Tom Barrett.

Leading the list is $2 million for renovating Milwaukee's Amtrak Station into a dynamic transit gateway.

"The upgrade to the Amtrak/Intermodel Transit Station will serve as a gateway to Milwaukee and a catalyst for future economic development," said Mayor Barrett. "The City has already approved a $6 million TIF district that will bring together Amtrak, a new Greyhound Bus terminal, and the proposed KRM Commuter Train. The additional federal funding will ensure a first-rate facility that will provide seamless transportation options for visitors and commuters."

Federal funding announced today will assist the city in the following project areas:

30th Street Industrial Corridor - $250,000 will assist the City in removing asbestos from the former Esser Paint Co. building in the 30th Street Industrial Corridor. Environmental concerns are often a barrier to bringing new businesses to former industrial sites.

Bronzeville - $200,000 will help in the renovation of Garfield Avenue School building within the Bronzeville African-American cultural and entertainment district.

Bradley Tech School on Milwaukee's Southside - $200,000 will assist in the demolition of the former Bradley Tech School.

Residential Rehab on Near West side - $350,000 will assist West End Development in the rehabilitation of dilapidated housing on the near northwest side.

Menomonee Valley -$200,000 will assist the Menomonee Valley Storm Water project to add native plantings as a buffer to the business park. The plants will absorb stormwater as it runs off the parking lots and will act as a stormwater management system for businesses that locate in the park. This allows a greater footprint for business construction.

"By partnering with the city in adding federal assistance we do not use other city resources and that benefits property taxpayers for these worthy projects. Each of these projects contributes to the health, education, public safety and economic success of our citizens and community. I am thankful that our federal delegation led by Representative Moore and Senator Kohl was able to convince their colleagues of the importance and value of these projects," said Mayor Barrett.

$4 million dollars was designated to the ongoing Marquette Interchange project.

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