Ground broken for nearly $30 million Harbor District Riverwalk

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A multi-million-dollar project that’s been years in the making in Milwaukee is one step closer to becoming reality.

The ground was broken Tuesday night for the new Harbor District Riverwalk at Komatsu.

Dozens of people gathered to celebrate the historic groundbreaking, which also falls on the Milwaukee Habor District's 10th anniversary celebration.

This nearly $30 million investment has been in the works for nearly seven years. It will be the longest stretch of riverwalk ever built in the city’s history.

Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson says construction will take place in two phases and will embody pedestrian accessibility, safety and nature.

“It’ll transform how people will connect with this incredible, incredible urban waterfront that we have here on our river,” said Mayor Johnson.

People who’ve been living in the area for decades say it’s a project they’ve been eagerly awaiting to see come to life.

“It’s been a long time in the works,” said Perry Michalos, who has lived in the area for around 40 years. There were times where I was wondering if it would ever happen.”

Many say it will be a game changer for the community.

“Just for walking space, I’m down here with my dog today,” said resident Nathan Kieso. “So yeah, more green spaces, more pedestrian stuff would be wonderful."

While this is just the first of many steps in the construction process, residents say they can’t wait to see the final results.