Mayor Barrett signs resolution renaming Old World Third Street to MLK Drive

Updated: 5:03 p.m. on Feb. 18, 2021

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Mayor Tom Barrett signed a resolution Thursday, Feb. 18, that renames Old World Third Street to Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.

It extends the existing King Drive name from where it once ended at McKinley Avenue, all the way to Wisconsin Avenue.

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Posted: 4:12 p.m. on Jan. 27, 2021

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A historic street in downtown Milwaukee will likely get a new name, but it's one you've likely already heard of.

Wednesday morning, Jan. 27, the Public Works Committee unanimously passed a resolution to rename the city's Old World Third Street to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. 

Essentially, it would extend MLK Drive from where it currently ends at McKinley Avenue, to West Wisconsin Avenue.

Along with the support, there are efforts to make sure the German history of the area remains intact. 

At one time, it was the center of the city's German community and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1987.

"I do believe there is a balance that can be struck to preserve the branding and identifiability of Old World Third district while changing the permanent street name to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive," said Alderwoman Milele Coggs. 

The resolution now goes to the common council for a full vote. It is expected to pass.