Downer Avenue

Nearly everyone agrees that Downer Avenue could be Milwaukee’s finest retail district and that it has not realized its potential. Most agree that significant development and investment activity is required to improve Downer’s prospects. Despite that consensus, few developments in Milwaukee have been as polarizing as the current redevelopment of Downer.

Many neighbors are vocal for dynamic change and have favored the development, and others have and continue to oppose it vigorously. As a neighbor, I’ve encountered the passion firsthand. As a real estate developer, I haven’t seen a development face such profound public scrutiny.

The substantial investment being made through this redevelopment brings the promise of sunny days to Downer merchants. But the current lawsuit and recent ruling cast long shadows. Uncertainty threatens to cast a pall on the profound progress already made with additions like Café Hollander. It seems some may have lost sight of what matters most for Downer.

Our merchants need the shadow lifted. As neighbors, we must encourage and support the businesses on Downer. They need certainty of plan, and they require the infrastructure being built. They require progress now. It’s time to step past vitriolic argument and to pull together to develop a better community.