Common Council unanimously approves renaming of Old World Third Street to MLK Drive

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Milwaukee Common Council unanimously passed legislation Tuesday, Feb. 9, to rename Old World Third Street to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.

The council says the abrupt change from King Drive to Old World Third Street has served as a reminder of the 1984 effort to limit the King street name from entering downtown Milwaukee.

A statement from all members of the common council said, "We hope this legislation serves as inspiration, hope, healing and encouragement for the quest for justice and racial equity. The geographical division between today's Old World Third Street and King Drive reflects the segregation and division that has been pervasive in this city."

Council members say they will work with local business owners to make the transition as easy as possible.