Shorewood

by Jean Scherwenka

The Master Plan for Shorewood’s redevelopment along Oakland Avenue south of Capitol Drive and west to the Milwaukee River received a public hearing at the Village Board’s July 10 meeting. After comments and discussion from citizens and Village officials, some changes were made in the Plan, whereupon it received Board approval.

The seven-story condos proposed for the river bluff on the Milwaukee PC and apartment complex sites are presently off the Plan. A “placeholder” was put on those river sites awaiting the completion of Rabinowitz Associates’ analysis of that parcel and their Alternative Development Strategies for the land. Rabinowitz Associates is the local architect hired by the Village.

Rabinowitz is outlining three scenarios: 1) A “highest and best use” development; 2) a “light green” development generally fitting the natural context along the river and creating open space; and 3) a “green” solution with minimal impact on the river, the view shed and surrounding areas. The public will have an opportunity to preview Rabinowitz’s final report.

A detailed plan for the river sites will then be drawn up. After more input and Board approval, the detailed plan will be submitted to Shorewood’s Community Development Authority and Planning Commission.

At the July 7 Board meeting, concerned citizens made sure that a public trail along the river from Hubbard Park north under Capitol Drive and connecting with trails in Estabrook Park was added to the Master Plan’s map. This trail was missing from a previous version of the map. There was also discussion of improving the bike trail access.

The next Village Board meeting is scheduled for August 7, 7:30 pm, Shorewood Village Hall, 3930 N. Murray Ave. (414) 847-2700. Watch for public hearings, meeting notices and agendas posted on the Village website (www.villageofshorewood.org).


At the July 10 public hearing at the Shorewood Village Board meeting, the seven-story condos proposed the river bluff on the Milwaukee PC and apartment complex sites were removed from the Master Plan. “placeholder” was put on those river sites awaiting completion of Rabinowitz Associates’ analysis of parcel and their Alternative Development Strategies for the land. Watch for future public hearings about development of this riverfront property.

Riverwest Currents online edition – August, 2006