East Library Redevelopment Update
February 2012

The Board of Trustees of the Milwaukee Public Library selected the proposal submitted by HSI Properties, LLC as the mixed-use project to replace the current East Library. HSI proposed a $15 million building with a prominent New East Library location, surface-level public parking, 92 market-rate apartments and approximately 2,500 SF of retail space. At the Board’s direction, HSI refined its project to include additional open space and “green” elements.

Library Director Paula Kiely and the Milwaukee Public Library Board of Trustees invite you to attend a community meeting.  HSI and its architect will present the revised plans to the community as follows:

You can view the plans at the attached links:

Revised plans modified the original site layout to accommodate more public space in the center of the building. This change allows access to both public and private parking from two points, while reducing the number of curb cuts from the earlier submission. The west façade was modified to move upper levels away from Thomas Avenue at varied setbacks. The east and south façades have been developed.

These plans were presented to the East Side Architectural Review Board on January 24, 2012 to ensure that the project would conform to the City’s new guidelines for the East North Avenue Business District. The East Side ARB approved the overall design and massing contingent of future review of building materials, lighting, landscaping and public street improvements. Building signage will be handled separately by the East Side ARB. 

Future public action on the proposal is tentatively scheduled as follows:
February 27, 2012     City Plan Commission
March 7, 2012           Public Works Committee
March 20, 2012         Full Common Council consideration