Apr. 11, 2024 8:15p
(WGTD)---A nine-block downtown redevelopment project is just one initiative of several that could collectively result in a dramatic, positive impact on Kenosha's future. That was the message delivered by outgoing Mayor John Antaramian at a kick-off event Thursday for the downtown project.
Antaramian stood under a tent in a parking lot next to a vacant building that's to be demolished to make way for a five-story apartment building that's expected to become the first of many new buildings in the targeted area. Antaramian linked downtown redevelopment to the transformation of the 109-acre Chrysler site and a new mixed-used building in the Uptown neighborhood.
"The future is literally in our grasp. We have the opportunity to change Kenosha dramatically. We have the opportunity to make sure our young people stay in Kenosha. We have the opportunity to bring more young people to our community and to continue to grow and prosper," he said. "And I believe projects like this and the others we've talked about eventually will put us in a situation that this community will be the economic driver of the state...that's how important all of these projects become."
Demolition of the vacant building which once housed a bank drive-thru is expected to begin this spring with construction on the five-story, 158 unit building to follow. On the heels of its completion, crews are expected to turn their attention to construction of a nearby ten-story apartment building.
Antaramian's last day as mayor will be this Monday. The following day, his replacement, Ald. Dave Bogdala, is expected to be sworn in.
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