Milwaukee city leaders announce new phase in demolition of old Northridge Mall site

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- After years of legal battles, growing community frustration, and a colony of bees Milwaukee city leaders have announced a milestone in the redevelopment of the former Northridge Mall site. With the removal of hazardous materials, including asbestos, now complete, crews are ready to begin demolishing the long-vacant building that has stood as an eyesore for more than two decades.

The Northridge Mall opened in 1972 and closed its doors in 2003-- sitting vacant and slowly decaying since then. Following a protracted legal battle over ownership, the city has finally secured control of the site in January and got to work to transform the area.

“This presents an opportunity for so much to happen at this site, whether that's housing, whether that's business, whether that's other jobs. This is a catalytic opportunity to do something really big,” Mayor Cavalier Johnson said during a news conference at the site.

The blighted building sits on 58-acres of land that the city now owns, and city leaders are eager to unlock its potential. "The Northridge site is the largest contiguous piece of land available here in the city of Milwaukee, and I think it holds incredible potential for the city's future," Johnson added.

District 9 Alderman Larresa Taylor, who represents the area, expressed her excitement over the project’s progress but also emphasized the importance of community input in shaping the site’s future.

“This has been an eyesore, so taking it down and giving yourself a chance to breathe a little bit and imagine the possibilities, that’s what it’s really going to take,” Taylor said.

City officials envisioning a mixed-use development that could include housing, retail spaces, office buildings, and possibly entertainment venues. The goal is to create a dynamic, thriving community that fosters job creation, economic growth, and new housing options for the surrounding area.

The demolition phase is expected to last through 2025. The city says it will continue to work closely with developers, urban planners, and community stakeholders to ensure that redevelopment is a good fit.

To share your ideas or stay informed about the project, CLICK HERE.