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Ken Harwood
Advocating for Wisconsin
HarwoodKen [at] Gmail.com
608.334.2174

This Weeks Articles for 3/27/2024 ...

  1. Avant Technologies to Build First AI-Focused Data Center in Milwaukee...
  2. U.S. Venture Development Agreement secures headquarters coming to Appleton...
  3. Wisconsin project first in state to win sustainable landscape award ...
  4. Milwaukee Bucks, Deer District community benefit deal seen as model for more development...
  5. Wisconsin Developer Turned a Former Toys R Us Site Into Modern Living...
  6. Bad A** Coffee Says Aloha to Wisconsin: Set to Debut in Lake Geneva as Part of Multi-State Development Agreement...
  7. Irgens’ Innovation Campus earns first-in-Wisconsin green milestone...
  8. New federal spending bills to boost UW–Madison research initiatives...
  9. Madison Plan Commission again denies State Street development ...
  10. Five construction projects aim to reshape UW-Madison’s future ...
  11. Interstate 94`s expansion will cost $1.74 billion and run through 2031. Here`s what we know...
  12. Bids open for $78.4M juvenile correctional facility in Milwaukee ...

   ...Full Story Here

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12 Years After Being Built, Wisconsin’s Talgo Trains Enter Service


Milwaukee-made trains designed for high-speed service picked up their first passengers last week.

Wisconsin taxpayers paid millions for the Talgo trainsets, but will need to spend even more on a plane ticket if they ever want to ride them.

Instead of welcoming passengers traveling between Chicago, Milwaukee and Madison, the Badger-colored trainsets are ferrying passengers in Lagos, Nigeria.

The first 17 miles of Lagos’ planned 23-mile Red Line opened to passengers on Feb. 29. The line is the second commuter rail line in Africa’s largest urban center, which boasts a population of greater than 21 million. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, who initiated the project more than two decades ago as governor of the city-state, attended the much-anticipated opening.

“This is the dream realized,” said Tinubu. But it certainly wasn’t Wisconsin’s dream.
In 2010, then-governor-elect Scott Walker refused a $823 million federal grant to build an Amtrak Hiawatha Service extension to Madison and plan an extension to Minneapolis...

   ...Full Story Here

Ken Notes: This one still hurts. In 2000 I sat on Tommy Thompson`s Rail Advisory Committee and we worked hard to broker a deal with the privately owned rail lines and right of way for this project. It would have put Wisconsin on the map for both high speed transportation and freight. It would have led to billions in growth for the Milwaukee Madison corridor. It would have created a new industry for the state. Instead we began the partisan politics that is failing both Wisconsin and the Nation.

In perspective we have not lost money on the failed Foxconn project and now with Microsoft on the site we will come out with something even if not what we were hoping for. Regarding rail we lost a lot of real money, real jobs, and real development and the ONLY winner is in Africa. America is broken and we broke it.

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Expanding housing opportunities in rural Wisconsin


MADISON, WI. FEB. 28, 2024 – Like many smaller Wisconsin communities, Ladysmith has struggled with finding and attracting workers due to a lack of affordable housing. But this small city in the Northwoods has found a solution a that was in plain sight for years — a now vacant elementary school.

Later this year, the former Ladysmith Elementary School will begin a new life, providing 40 rental units for workforce housing.

The Wisconsin Economic Development Corp (WEDC) has awarded the city a $200,000 Idle Site Redevelopment (ISR) grant, providing the final piece of a $13 million public-private sector partnership...



   ...Full Story Here

Ken Notes: I work at Canoecopia Friday so no WWHNews.com, so I will putin in a few housing articles today...

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An expansion for farmers and the community


WFU’s Market on River to open this fall


CHIPPEWA FALLS – The Wisconsin Farmers Union (WFU) – a nonprofit organization that supports small- and medium-sized farms across the state – is preparing to move from its location at 117 W. Spring St. to 128 W. River St., better known to the people of downtown Chippewa Falls as Market on River (MOR).

The move, Jackie Boos, facility director at WFU, said comes from a need to expand from its current location – and a desire to become more known throughout the community.

“To make sure we’re putting ourselves in an area that was grassroots marketing (and) letting the general public know who we are,” she said. “Even though we’ve been here, they might not always see us.”

Boos said WFU has been at its current location since the mid-1950s. 

“As time has changed, our staff has changed and grown, she said. “Our team needs have grown”...

   ...Full Story Here

Ken Notes: WOW - A Food Hall, Nice Office Space, and Workforce Housing. We need to see more developments like this! For week 11

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LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR’S SMALL BUSINESS ACADEMY


Get the Small Business Academy advantage

The Small Business Academy features workshops on what’s important to you and your small businesses, including financing options, legal concerns, regulatory issues, information technology, small business certifications, and identifying markets and sales opportunities, as well as practical advice from business owners who have successfully made it through the initial stages of starting and growing their companies.

If you are an existing small business, an individual thinking of starting a business, or an entrepreneur looking for funding and resources, take advantage of this free virtual and in-person event...

In-Person Event: April 30, 2024 | Virtual Event: May 1– May 3, 2024

Resource Directory

Explore the resource directory to find and connect with organizations focused on small business development. This comprehensive list can serve as an essential tool to help you discover information specific to your journey.

View Resource Directory





   ...Full Story Here

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Avant Technologies to Build First AI-Focused Data Center in Milwaukee


LAS VEGAS, March 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Avant Technologies, Inc. (OTCQB: AVAI) ("Avant" or the "Company"), an artificial intelligence technology (AI) company specializing in creating and developing innovative and advanced AI infrastructure solutions, today announced plans for the Company`s first Avant-branded micro data center, which will be specifically designed for private cloud companies in the booming AI and big data sectors. Avant`s initial data center is set to be built in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Avant expects its state-of-the-art facility to be operational in the first half of 2025...

...Milwaukee, Wisconsin, location offers Avant:...
  • Thriving Tech Hub: Milwaukee is ranked 5th on Forbes...
  • Investment Magnet:  National leader in early-stage investment growth...
  • Tech Giants Backing: Major players like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon...
  • Top-Tier Talent Pipeline: Milwaukee boasts a sizable tech talent pool...
  • Cost-Effective Advantage: 4th most affordable major U.S. city...
...The combination of Milwaukee as a thriving tech scene, strong investment hub, established tech giants, a growing talent pool, and affordability make Milwaukee the perfect inaugural location for Avant`s future success...
   ...Full Story Here

Ken Notes: Nice overview for sure...

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U.S. Venture Development Agreement secures headquarters coming to Appleton


APPLETON (NBC 26) — The Appleton Common Council agreed to a development agreement with U.S. Venture, Inc. to move the company’s headquarters to downtown Appleton. The agreement was the final step in U.S. Venture’s preparations to move to the 222 Building.

U.S. Venture is planning to employ more than 600 employees to work in the new headquarters building following the completion of a full renovation.

They plan to invest $56 million in the facility and occupy all ten floors...

See also:

U.S. Venture shifts focus on building new headquarters to revitalize Appleton`s 222 building



   ...Full Story Here

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State officials hear from industry, labor on embracing AI without leaving workers behind


With growing advances in artificial intelligence, leaders of Wisconsin agencies are working to create a framework for embracing the technology while protecting workers.

The Governor’s Task Force on Workforce and Artificial Intelligence met in Oshkosh on Monday. The group included leaders of the state Department of Workforce Development, the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. and the Department of Administration, as well as representatives from a local corporation and labor officials.

The task force is about halfway through its work to craft an advisory plan for Gov. Tony Evers. They are tasked with identifying the current effects of AI on Wisconsin’s labor market and making policy recommendations for investments in workforce development and education related to AI, according to DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek...

   ...Full Story Here

Ken Notes: I heard a great quote, "Few will be replaced by artificial intelligence, but many will be replaced by those who embrace and use artificial intelligence."

The perspective of using AI as a tool make a great deal of sense. Knowing how to use that tool will allow some to advance further and faster.

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Wisconsin First-Time Home Buyer: 2024 Programs and Grants



What to know about buying a house in Wisconsin

Wisconsin first-time home buyers have a leg up over buyers in some other states. Both home prices and home price inflation are well below national averages.

Of course, saving for your down payment and getting a home loan can still be a challenge. But Wisconsin has loan programs to help.

The Badger State offers special mortgages and education to first-time buyers in Wisconsin. It also has several down payment assistance programs that can help you meet your down payment and closing cost needs. Here’s what you can expect.

Verify your home buying eligibility in Wisconsin. Start here (Mar 20th, 2024)   ...Full Story Here

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Wisconsin project first in state to win sustainable landscape award


WAUWATOSA, Wis. — Irgens on Wednesday announced the first phase of Innovation Campus in Wauwatosa won certification under the Sustainable SITES Initiative through Green Business Certification Inc., making it the first Wisconsin project certified for promoting sustainable and resilient landscape development.

The developer is working on Innovation Campus adjacent to County Ground Parks, one of the largest and last remaining undeveloped areas in Milwaukee County. The area is home to various wildlife and an old growth forest.

Irgens established a goal to steward the 7.74-acre parcel to protect the area while planning the first phase of campus development, officials said...


   ...Full Story Here

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State lawmakers release nearly $32M in workforce funding to Uni­ver­sities of Wisconsin


MADISON, Wis. — The state Legislature’s budget committee met Thursday to vote on releasing nearly $32 million in funding to the Universities of Wisconsin to help with expanding workforce development programs.

Thursday’s move was part of a bigger deal made in December involving pay raises and campus construction in which Republican Assembly Speaker Robin Vos agreed to release funding cut from the budget by the end of February if the Universities of Wisconsin scaled back Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) positions...

What You Need To Know

  • The Legislature’s budget-writing committee released nearly $32 million in workforce funding Thursday, which is equal to the amount withheld in the budget approved in July

  • GOP lawmakers estimated that amount to be what was spent on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts on campuses

  • In December, Republican leaders and the Universities of Wisconsin reached an agreement on pay raises, construction projects, and workforce development

  • Thursday’s vote restores those previous cut funds to be used on engineering, health care, business, and data science programs

   ...Full Story Here

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We Energies Will Spend $335 Million on Microsoft Development


We Energies plans to spend $335 million on a distribution project for Microsoft’s data center development on land originally intended for Foxconn in Mount Pleasant.

According to a recent filing with the Wisconsin Public Service Commission, the utility company plans to start construction of “distribution facilities, including transformers, breakers, relays and other ancillary equipment” for the development. That work needs to begin no later than June, according to the filing...


   ...Full Story Here

Ken Notes: Now we will see how good a development agreement we have. If there are rate increases to local clients, not so good -- If Microsoft covers the investment GREAT! Data center use a LOT of power and we have some to spare so if we cover the infrastructure costs we should be in good shape.

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Wisconsin can now plug in to federal funds to expand EV charging


Wisconsin will receive $78 million in federal funds to build new electric vehicle charging stations across the state after Gov. Tony Evers signed two bills Wednesday laying the groundwork for the project.

The legislation changes how EV charging stations can bill customers and authorizes the Wisconsin Department of Transportation to establish a state EV charging station program that will receive and deploy federal funds under the federal 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program, included in the infrastructure law, states will get funding to support the construction of new EV fast charging stations along major driving routes where drivers can recharge their electric vehicles in less than an hour...


   ...Full Story Here

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Milwaukee Bucks, Deer District community benefit deal seen as model for more development


When the new owners of the Milwaukee Bucks got help from state taxpayers to build a new basketball arena nearly a decade ago, community activists pushed for a deal that would do more for the people who would one day work there. Not the NBA stars, but the people selling refreshments, mopping the floors, providing security and fulfilling a host of other necessary tasks.

That agreement has helped foster a new trajectory for service workers, according to a new report released Wednesday — turning their low-wage and insecure work into jobs with the promise of longer term, family-sustaining careers.

It also offers a model for other city development projects besides the Bucks arena and the surrounding hospitality and entertainment district that was part of that project, the report suggests...


   ...Full Story Here

Ken Notes: This entire project has been a good model for economic development. From wages to surrounding build out the "District" has put Milwaukee on the map. Now if we can just make this summer about the city and not the politics at hand we will be in great shape. I know it is a lot to ask, but Bucks if you could just win the NBA finals in June...

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Wisconsin Developer Turned a Former Toys R Us Site Into Modern Living


Illinois-based developer Wingspan Development Group`s conversion of a former Toys R Us site into a "modern, innovative" community resulted in the creation of The Ruby at Brookfield Square, which opened in 2023.

The property received a 2024 CoStar Impact Award for multifamily development of the year for Milwaukee, as judged by real estate professionals familiar with the market.

The 5.7-acre complex includes furnished apartments, dedicated workspaces for residents who work from home and connectivity to the nearby Brookfield Square Mall.

About the Project:...

   ...Full Story Here

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La Crosse’s River Point District development


LA CROSSE, Wis. (WLAX/WEUX) – Every night this week, we’re spotlighting the people, places, and things that make La Crosse County unique in the latest edition of our County by County series...

...Project Manager Jason Gilman says the River point District will provide plenty of housing opportunities, “This is probably going to be about 1200 housing units, probably over $300 million in investment in tax base. It’s a transit-oriented development, which means it’s served by public transportation. Many of the architects and developers that are working on it are employing smart technology for energy efficiency in the buildings.”

La Crosse Redevelopment Authority Chair ADAM Hatfield says it’s exciting to see a project this big in the city, “We want to create density in the city. River points are a fantastic way to create that density, create new tax base for the city, and create something that’s brand new and really something this size hasn’t been seen in a long time for La Crosse.”

The River Point District will have many things embedded in it, including businesses, market rate housing, mixed income housing, and waterfront access. “Neighborhood is more than housing. It’s creating sense as a community, creating senses of public space, of green space, and really making it again connected to a lot of the things that people enjoy in lacrosse and really make La Crosse special.”...

   ...Full Story Here

Ken Notes: Nice project coming to La Crosse...

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Milwaukee wants 1 million people and more housing. Zoning code changes are a first step


Milwaukee might soon change its zoning code to encourage development of small apartment buildings and apartments in commercial areas ? growing the city`s affordable housing supply.

Those revisions, which need approval from the Common Council and Mayor Cavalier Johnson, would be a first step towards Johnson`s vision of eventually increasing Milwaukee`s population to 1 million.

Smaller rental developments also will likely need public financing help, housing industry experts say, as well as building code changes. But zoning to promote such projects must happen first, they say.

"The deck is stacked against small developers who don`t know how to navigate the process," Milwaukee developer Montavius Jones told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel...


   ...Full Story Here

Ken Notes: Workforce housing is not a navigation problem it is a profit margin problem. There is far more profit in one $500,000 home than there is in 5 $100,000 homes. What would you build...

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Development group aims to create a bikeway between Merrill and Wausau


A Merrill-based group that develops recreational trails has plans to create an off-road pathway from Merrill to Wausau.

Members of River District Development Foundation, which created the River Bend Trail in Merrill, plan a cycling and walking trail they are calling Jenny Road, after Merrill`s early name. The trail would be approximately 14 to 15 miles, running from Merrill to Wausau on the east side of the Wisconsin River. Much of the route would run parallel to a lightly-used railroad track, on property that was set aside as an easement for a electric trolley line once planned to run between the two towns, Foundation members say.

That easement is now held by Wisconsin Public Service Corporation, said Jon Krohn, president of the River District Development Foundation. That easement, he said, is key to the whole project and could fast-track the process of developing the trail...


   ...Full Story Here

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American Companies: Pioneering progress at senior living development in West Bend, WI


The project, which began in August of 2023, involves the construction of a 114-unit, 3-story senior living facility that American Architectural Group designed. The project is a partnership of American Companies, DMK Development, & Charter Senior Living and is estimated to be completed in early 2025.

The development is expected to revitalize the surrounding area and provide much-needed living space...


   ...Full Story Here

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DWD Expands Job Center Services with Two New Mobile Career Labs


MADISON – Gov. Tony Evers is joining the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) to highlight expanded services available through two new mobile career labs. The new vehicles, along with a large mobile career lab that debuted in 2019, allow DWD and its workforce partners to bring online job search tools and services to locations across Wisconsin.

“Making sure our workforce is prepared to meet the needs of a 21st century economy is a top priority for me, which is why I declared 2024 the Year of the Worker in Wisconsin," Gov. Evers said. "The services made available through these mobile career labs are part of my administration`s comprehensive effort to reduce barriers to employment and help all available workers join our workforce."

DWD`s mobile career labs deliver workforce resources and services to individuals and businesses throughout Wisconsin. The labs bring services to those who have challenges accessing them, employers who have a training or hiring need, and partners who request additional resources.

"Our mobile career labs put job center services on wheels, making them more accessible for job seekers and employers across the state," said DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek. "Each year, job center staff help tens of thousands of people achieve their workforce goals; the mobile labs support and expand these efforts." ...

   ...Full Story Here

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Chancellor Mnookin statement on engineering building, changes to reciprocity


Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin released the following statement on Wednesday, March 6 following a ceremony in which Governor Tony Evers signed bills authorizing a new engineering building, capital projects and reciprocity changes.

I want to express my deep appreciation to both Governor Evers and the State Legislature for supporting and approving vitally important priorities for UW—Madison and the Universities of Wisconsin. These bipartisan actions strengthen our flagship university and the entire system while also deepening our partnership with the state in critical areas such as innovation, workforce and economic development across Wisconsin. Current and future investment in our infrastructure is vitally important, as we strive to meet these needs and offer a world-class education.

The approval of a new building for UW—Madison’s College of Engineering is a tremendous step forward for our campus, allowing us to educate about 1,000 additional undergraduates in engineering at a time when Wisconsin employers urgently need more engineers, and expanding our engineering faculty’s ability to do innovative, life-changing research...

   ...Full Story Here

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Shot callers must balance development, historical character to preserve Madison’s historic charm


New developers threaten erasure of important architecture, unofficial landmarks, but careful planning could preserve the character of Madison

Madison’s rapid growth can be felt everywhere in the city — shiny new apartments towering above State Street, surging rent prices, and an expanding public transportation network.

Yet not all growth comes without cost. For developers fixated on building modern profit-maximizing residential and commercial spaces, existing historical landmarks often come directly into their crosshairs. Consequently, the traditional fabric of urban Madison has begun to unravel across the city...

   ...Full Story Here

Ken Notes: I would only ask one additional series questions, If we say no to a project, what is plan B?, Who is the developer?, Who is funding the project? I might also add, Why is the Historical Society demolishing an old building to build a brand new facility for their museum? This just seem hypocritical to me.

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DWD economist offers an upbeat picture for jobs, employment in 2024


Wisconsin’s employment and jobs picture got off to a strong start in January, setting records in the number of jobs, the number of private sector jobs, the number of construction jobs as well as overall employment, the state labor department reported Thursday.

“We’ve been setting new employment records most of all last year and continued into this year,” said Dennis Winters, chief economist at the Department of Workforce Development (DWD), in a briefing Thursday on the January numbers. Looking ahead, there’s “nothing, that seems to us, that’s going to turn things down much.”

   ...Full Story Here

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New mass timber development in Delafield will get a Voodoo Brewing Co.


Not only is Delafield set to get its first mass timber building but it`s also getting the first Wisconsin location of Voodoo Brewing Co., which was founded in 2005 in Pennsylvania.

Voodoo will occupy a space in the east building of The Grain, a mixed-use development at 705 Genessee St. The $25 million development also contains office space, parking and retail spaces with a tenant list that so far includes Brunch Delafield, Midwest Insurance Group, NONA Nutrition, RBC Wealth Management, Synthetaic, and Velvet & Tulle Boutique.

In addition to craft beer, Voodoo will offer pub food like burgers, pizza, wings and weekend brunch, and will have indoor and outdoor seating...

...For more on The Grain, developed by Beloit-based Hendricks Commercial Properties, click here.


   ...Full Story Here

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Bad A** Coffee Says Aloha to Wisconsin: Set to Debut in Lake Geneva as Part of Multi-State Development Agreement


LAKE GENEVA, Wis., March 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Bad A** Coffee of Hawaii, a leading coffee franchise renowned for its premium sourcing of Hawaiian coffees and unforgettable cafés, announces it is bringing a location to Lake Geneva, signifying the brand`s entrance in the state of Wisconsin. This location is part of a larger multi-unit agreement that was originally for Florida, but is now strategically expanding to other states. Bad A** Coffee is slated to open its doors to the Lake Geneva community early 2025.

Behind the expansion into Wisconsin is Marquee Coffee, LLC, a group of business partners from Naples, FL, and Chicago, IL. The group signed the biggest multi-unit deal in Bad A** Coffee of Hawaii history in 2022 to bring 20 stores to Southwest Florida, which was revised in 2023 to include select markets where Chicagoans travel and own second homes. Marquee Coffee quickly identified the growth potential in Lake Geneva, which is one of the most popular vacation and second home destinations for Chicagoans. Lake Geneva follows the successful opening of Marquee Coffee`s first location in November 2023, across from the beach on Naples`s "Miracle Mile." Marquee Coffee`s overall goal is opening the rest of their stores within the next seven years...


   ...Full Story Here

Ken Notes: I am confused, A** triggers spam filters but Chicago is fine...Just kidding...

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Irgens’ Innovation Campus earns first-in-Wisconsin green milestone


Irgens‘ Innovation Campus Phase I in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, recently reached a major green milestone.

The office campus was awarded certification under the Sustainable SITES® Initiative (SITES) rating system that is administered by Green Business Certification Inc.™ (GBCI®). It is the first project in the state of Wisconsin to receive this certification, which promotes sustainable and resilient landscape development.

Innovation Campus in Wauwatosa is adjacent to County Grounds Park, one of the largest and last remaining undeveloped areas in Milwaukee County. It is home to various wildlife species including birds, butterflies, deer, owls and more. It boasts a rich habitat and miles of walking trails. It also hosts several endangered species and an old-growth forest, Sanctuary Woods...


   ...Full Story Here

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New federal spending bills to boost UW–Madison research initiatives


The University of Wisconsin–Madison is set to receive more than $56 million in new funding for research initiatives after the passage of two federal appropriations packages.

The set of bipartisan bills, signed into law by President Joe Biden on March 9 and March 23, will fund the federal government through Sept. 30. Both pieces of legislations included funding for research projects specific to UW–Madison.

“This funding is a testament to the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s leadership in research and innovation,” said Interim Vice Chancellor for Research Cynthia Czajkowski. “It reinforces our commitment to address the state and nation’s most pressing challenges, from enhancing rural economies and driving innovation in the dairy industry, to advancing research in sustainability and biofuels.”...


   ...Full Story Here

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Kalahari Resorts™ Announces Luxury Treehouse Resort in Wisconsin Dells


WISCONSIN DELLS, Wis.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Nelson family, owners and operators of Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, have announced their development of a new distinctive resort experience in the Wisconsin Dells area called Dawn Manor™ in homage to the historical home previously located on the resort’s land. The lodging at the new resort, named “Kalahari Treehouse Collection™ at Dawn Manor™”, will feature 21 partially supported luxury treehouses and 31 ground-supported houses, in addition to a 10,000-square-foot Wisconsin supper club, named Daylene’s Supper Club™ at Dawn Manor™, all overlooking scenic Lake Delton.

“Our family, along with our thousands of dedicated associates, have been bringing beyond-expectations experiences to millions of guests for decades. We intend to continue that legacy with our new luxury treehouse resort by creating a truly unique experience for guests who want to escape from it all, surrounded by nature, while only being minutes away from all the amenities the Dells area has to offer,” said Todd Nelson, CEO, founder, and owner of Kalahari Resorts.

The Kalahari Treehouse Collection™ at Dawn Manor™, located off County Road A on Lake Delton, will also feature a reconstructed beach area and 18 boat slips with both beach and restaurant access, in addition to a refreshed gazebo and boathouse....
   ...Full Story Here

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MadREP News


Stay up to date by reading our MadREP Report,a bi-monthly newsletter that features regional economic development news, events and opportunities.




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WEDC
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OPINION: Missy Hughes: Wisconsin is having a moment – and there’s more to come


There’s been a lot of good news about Wisconsin lately, and it’s only just the start.

First, recent Census figures show our state’s population grew by about 20,000 in 2023, the biggest one-year increase in this decade.

Among Midwest states, only Indiana and Minnesota were ahead of us for population growth. Iowa and Michigan both grew, but more slowly, while Illinois’ population declined.

More importantly, our rural communities — which make up the heart and soul of our state — are also holding their own...
   ...Full Story Here

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REAL ESTATE | 78-unit apartment & 8 multi-family buildings proposed for Decorah Road and Sand Drive in West Bend, WI


March 1, 2024 – West Bend, WI – Two more large residential developments are on the agenda for the March 5, 2024, West Bend Plan Commission meeting and both are in the area of Decorah Road and Sand Drive.

One development by applicant Iron Horse Commons and designed by American Architectural Group features 8 multi-family buildings consisting of 51 units. That is being proposed south of Decorah Road and on the west side of Sand Drive. Click HERE for a map.

   ...Full Story Here

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Wisconsin unemployment down in January


MADISON, Wis. -- New data released Wednesday by the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development found that unemployment rates for January mostly fell to lower levels.

The nonseasonally adjusted unemployment rates for the major cities decreased or stayed the same in 10 out of 12 Wisconsin metro areas over the month, but rates decreased in all 12 areas year-over-year.

In 34 of Wisconsin`s 35 largest cities, preliminary January 2024 unemployment rates decreased or stayed the same. Rates decreased or stayed the same in 32 cities over the year.

On the county level in January, unemployment rates decreased or stayed the same in 43 of 72 Wisconsin counties over the month. Over the year, 64 of 72 Wisconsin counties had unemployment rates decrease or stay the same...

See Also:
   ...Full Story Here

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What`s up with the combo grocery store-apartments plan for downtown Green Bay?


GREEN BAY — A Madison developer this spring will present his third, mixed-use development plan in five years as the city looks spur development on a prominent, city-owned parking lot in downtown Green Bay.

Ted Matkom last year began to revise plans to redevelop the parking lot in the 200 block of North Monroe Avenue after interest rates, labor and material cost increases created a sizeable funding gap in the $22 million proposal. The plan focused on building 172 apartments and first floor space for a grocery store on the site.

Green Bay officials bought the 2.4-acre parking lot in 2019 and ever since have sought a private company to build housing, preferably affordable units, on a key, high-visibility site on the edge of downtown and Whitney Park. The effort has faced a variety of challenges...

   ...Full Story Here

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Kwik Trip distribution center may soon be built in DeForest


A new Kwik Trip distribution center may soon rise from an empty farm field in DeForest.

The convenience store company paid $14.1 million for 151 acres in the village in the southwest quadrant of the intersection of Highways 51 and 19, and is in talks with village officials about using 60 of those acres to build a new distribution center that could serve about 350 stores. The remaining 91 acres will likely be considered for future development, according to DeForest Administrator Bill Chang.

Kwik Trip has been in talks with DeForest and the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation since late fall, when the convenience store chain bought the land proposed for the distribution center. The field, south of the UW-Health DeForest-Windsor Clinic and west of the UnityPoint Health-Meriter DeForest-Windsor Clinic, was in the town of Burke before it was annexed to DeForest...



   ...Full Story Here

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WEDC has awarded 14 $3M tax credits for investors in innovative businesses in `24


(The Center Square) – Wisconsin’s Department of Economic Development has awarded $3 million in tax credits to investors in 14 startups in the state so far in 2024.

The tax credits are part of the state’s Qualified New Business Venture program, which began in 2005. It gives 25% transferrable tax credits for investors in qualified new businesses capped at $3 million for a $12 million cash equity investment.

Businesses can apply for the credits for investors if they are developing innovative products, processes or services and are headquartered in Wisconsin, have fewer than 100 employees with 51% based in Wisconsin and have been in operation for 10 consecutive years or less.

The investor cannot control or be closely related to someone who controls more than 20% of the company...


   ...Full Story Here

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Madison Plan Commission again denies State Street development


Madison’s Plan Commission once again halted a proposal to redevelop an historic section of the 400 block of State Street.

The Plan Commission voted 5-3 to stop the demolition of three buildings along the 400 block of State Street which used to house B-Side Records and Freedom Skate Shop, locally owned businesses that had been staples on the block since the mid-1970s.

A proposed development from local developer JD McCormick called for buildings at 428-444 State Street to be razed to build a 6-story, 26-unit apartment building that would include approximately 6,500 square feet of first floor commercial space...


   ...Full Story Here

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Five construction projects aim to reshape UW-Madison’s future


The University of Wisconsin-Madison and the city of Madison are currently undergoing a series of construction projects to create larger spaces for several programs on and off campus.

Here are five construction projects shaping UW-Madison’s future:
  • A brand new School of Computer, Data & Information Sciences

  • Irving and Dorothy Levy Hall

  • A new engineering building

  • Lake Street garage demolition, redevelopment

  • Kronshage, Humphrey, Jorns residence halls renovation

   ...Full Story Here

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Economic Development Resources









Twin Cities-Milwaukee-Chicago Intercity Passenger Rail Service



Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority

nwrpc.com
momentumwest.org
7riversalliance.org
driftlessdevelopment.com
grownorth.org
prosperitysouthwest.com
centergy.net
madisonregion.org
thenewnorth.com
mke7.com



PropertyDrive.com

CirexNews.com

www.weda.org

DOA

Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce Directory



Wisconsin
Department
of Workforce
Development

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A massive proposed Wisconsin solar farm could wreak havoc on threatened prairie chickens


The 8,500-acre facility in Portage County would encroach on the Buena Vista State Wildlife Areas, home to most of the threatened birds in the state.

The plan for a massive solar energy development in Portage County has caused conservationists to sound the alarm over the project`s potential detrimental impacts to Wisconsin`s threatened population of greater prairie chickens.

The Vista Sands Solar Farm would span about 8,500 acres in the towns of Buena Vista, Grant and Plover. As proposed it would be the state`s largest solar development.

It has raised concerns due to its planned location, in many cases abutting the Buena Vista State Wildlife Area...


   ...Full Story Here

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Cornell City Council - Three of Brunet Estates lots snatched up for development


By Ginna Young It was good news for all concerned March 7, at the Cornell City Council meeting, as an offer was acted on from Better Built Inc., to purchase Lots 7, 8 and 9, of Brunet Estates, for the asking price of $38,501. The builder plans on constructing spec homes on the lots, all at once, which will help with the housing shortage and place the property on the taxroll.

“I’m glad to see them get developed,” said city administrator Dave De-Jongh.

Members also approved an amended engineering agreement with Cedar Corp., for the Bates and N. Fifth streets projects, as the rules were “changed up.” Before applying for a grant, the city must now complete an environmental review study, which is included in the engineering proposal.

   ...Full Story Here

Ken Notes: Nice to see a few paywalls coming down, I really want to share more from across the state...

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City of Madison to enhance transit system with allocation of $118.1 million in federal funds


Federal funding will allow for development of second phase of Madison`s bus rapid transit

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration released a statement March 11 that $118.1 million is included in President Joe Biden’s 2025 proposed budget for the Madison area’s Bus Rapid Transit.

Phase one of this project began with the east-west line from Junction Road to East Towne through the downtown and campus area — which is expected to be officially online at the end of 2024.

The most recently announced federal funding will be dedicated to the second phase of the BRT — the Metro Rapid Route B — which will connect the north and south sides of the city, according to the City of Madison...

   ...Full Story Here

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Potawatomi Business Development Corporation Rebrands as Potawatomi Ventures


The Potawatomi Business Development Corporation has announced a complete rebranding, including a new name, logo and tagline, after two decades of successful growth. The change, to Potawatomi Ventures, marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey – a comprehensive rebranding effort that encapsulates its evolution, setting the stage for an exciting future.

The refreshed brand identity aims to capture the essence of Potawatomi Venture’s core values and the rich heritage of the Forest County Potawatomi Community. The new logo intertwines modernity with tradition, symbolising the company`s adventurous approach while honouring its sacred roots as Keepers of the Fire...
   ...Full Story Here

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Multi-use development proposed in South Beloit


SOUTH BELOIT — An $80 to $90 million development project is being proposed along Shirland Avenue in South Beloit.

According to a development agreement, Rock River Development, LLC, which is based in Georgia, is proposing a mixed-use project which may include multi-family and residential housing, office space, commercial retail space, restaurants and other uses. The project is planned for property along Shirland Avenue across the street from ABC Supply Stadium.

South Beloit City Administrator Sonya Hoppes said the development has been in the due diligence stage for about a year...


   ...Full Story Here

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Despite rising incomes, a 50% jump in Wisconsin home prices poses big challenge for buyers


It`s become much harder for middle-class Wisconsin residents to buy a home in the past several years, according to a new report from the Wisconsin Policy Forum.

In just five years, the median home sale price in Wisconsin rose by more than 50%, according to the report, which examined how housing costs changed between 2017 and 2022. 

Wisconsin`s home prices have been deemed a crisis by state leaders, who are scrambling to encourage more home construction across the state.

The Wisconsin Policy Forum report breaks down which parts of the housing market are facing the biggest crisis, analyzing home prices and rents by county...

   ...Full Story Here

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Interstate 94`s expansion will cost $1.74 billion and run through 2031. Here`s what we know


Interstate 94`s expansion on Milwaukee`s west side will cost an estimated $1.74 billion, with the construction work scheduled to run from late 2025 to 2031.

That amounts to another huge project for southeastern Wisconsin`s freeway system. It will affect commuters, businesses that need to relocate, and Milwaukee Brewers fans who might have fewer parking spaces.

Here`s what we know.

Most of the work centers on adding two lanes

The project centers on widening I-94 from six lanes to eight lanes between 16th and 70th streets.
   ...Full Story Here

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Bids open for $78.4M juvenile correctional facility in Milwaukee


Construction bids for a juvenile correctional facility in Milwaukee are open, with the state estimating construction costs of nearly $55 million. The facility will likely open in 2026, years after legislators’ deadline to replace two juvenile centers in northern Wisconsin.

The new facility will replace Lincoln Hills School for Boys and Copper Lake School for Girls, both located outside Irma in northern Wisconsin, according to the Wisconsin Department of Corrections. In August 2023, the state approved the $78.4 million project, which is meant to house youths who are serving sentences as serious offenders. However, lawmakers originally set the delivery date for 2021 and lack of funding caused delays.

General prime contractor bids for the one-story, around 71,000-square-foot correctional facility at 7930 West Clinton Ave. will close May 8; bids for mechanical, electrical and plumbing contractors will close April 24...



   ...Full Story Here

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Ken Notes: WDNews relies on the actual journalism provided by your local media outlets. Without these partners we can not bring you the unbiased news, leads and updates you need to thrive in Wisconsin. Support your local media...

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Land and Space / Tom Daykin


Note: I changed the link here to Toms Twitter account. JS limits the number of articles I can read so I look at TD`s Twitter feed every week. I`ll Still include JS articles but after ten you need to subscribe.

I also updated the picture because, well Tom is getting old and development is taking it`s toll!!!

Milwaukee - 1/1/2020 Journal Sentinel business reporter Tom Daykin talks about commercial real estate and development, including stores, hotels, offices, condos, apartments and industrial buildings...

Land & Space Development Database


   ...Full Story Here

Ken Notes: Tom Daykin is the source for ED news in MKE. This is a permanent link to articles in his blog which is updated daily...

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The Wisconsin Development Network


Our Current Publications:


 

WDNGreen.com     

WWHNews
WWHNews.com


Cirex News


WisCraftNews.com

FOR SALE!

    
Ken Harwood
Advocating for Wisconsin
HarwoodKen@Gmail.com
608.334.2174
   ...Full Story Here

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WDN Notes...


WisconsinDevelopment.com
&/or WDNGreen.com

Wisconsin Development and WDNGreen newsletters are now emailed to over 12,000 professionals, planners, developers, news outlets, and elected officials each week. We see over 1,000 opens within the first hour every week for each publication. The websites, WisconsinDevelopment.com and WDNGreen.com are always online and available to view and search where we maintain several years worth of articles.

"My goal is to present a positive view of economic development, business and employment in the State of Wisconsin”, Ken Harwood, Editor and Publisher.

Each week WisconsinDevelopment presents a positive look at economic development, commercial projects and ideas that work from across the state. In WDNGreen we highlight pro-environmental development and issues that make economic sense.

We believe in the Wisconsin business community and believe that telling their stories will positively impact both growth and better legislation in the State. We are nonpartisan, pro business, pro positive environmental issues, and most importantly pro WISCONSIN...

Online at WisconsinDevelopment.com  & WDNGreen.com Featuring Storues & Links you can use everyday to help your bisiness and Wisconsin grow! Edited and published by Ken Harwood @ LinkedIn. 


   ...Full Story Here

Ken Notes: "Ken Notes" may be reprinted in context without permission. Attribution should be Ken Harwood, Editor Wisconsin Development News or Ken Harwood Advocate for Wisconsin.

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Contact WisconsinDevelopment


Wisconsin Development News is
Edited and Published by:

Ken Harwood
Ken [at] KenHarwood.com
608.334.2174


Mailing Address:

WisconsinDevelopment.com
1221 Hagar St UNIT 209
La Crosse  WI  54603

Please feel free to send story ideas or Press Releases to:

Ken [at] KenHarwood.com
Call 608.334.2174 to confirm receipt.

   ...Full Story Here

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