Lakefront Brewery Unveils Ambitious Riverfront Revamp
Lakefront Brewery is set to transform a riverfront property at 1890 N. Commerce St., enhancing its appeal and accessibility. The 34,094-square-foot lot, owned by Russ Klisch since 2014, is located upstream from the brewery’s main site. Klisch’s proposal, which aims to improve the area for pedestrians and visitors, will be presented to the City of Milwaukee Board of Zoning Appeals this Thursday.
Plans for a Family-Friendly Space
Russ Klisch, the owner of Lakefront Brewery, has shared insights into the upcoming project, which he describes as essential for the brewery’s future. The city requested that Klisch rent the lot to Zenith Tech for bridge reconstruction, leading to complications with zoning regulations. As a result, he was required to seek approval from the Board of Zoning Appeals (BOZA) to change the zoning status of the property. Klisch expressed his commitment to making the area more pedestrian-friendly, despite the financial burden of the required improvements.
The new development will feature several amenities aimed at enhancing the visitor experience. Plans include four cabanas, five picnic tables, five hop houses, and a 10,000-square-foot fenced and partially paved outdoor storage area. Additionally, a 6-foot by 12-foot chalet and an 18-foot by 18-foot children’s playset will be constructed. The existing chain-link fence surrounding the property will be removed, allowing for a more open and inviting atmosphere. Klisch anticipates that the hop plants currently growing on the fence will be relocated to the new hop houses.
The addition of a children’s play area aligns with Lakefront Brewery’s reputation for being family-friendly, particularly during its popular Friday Fish Fry, which attracts a diverse crowd, including many families.
A Rich History and Future Prospects
The site at 1890 N. Commerce St. has a storied past, having served as a dock for the Milwaukee-Western Fuel Company for decades. It was a bustling hub for coal deliveries, with bulk carriers unloading tons of coal and overhead cranes facilitating the loading process. The area was once a vital part of Milwaukee’s coal delivery network, overshadowed only by rail deliveries in Chicago.
In 2008, part of the site was developed into the Edge Condominiums, revealing remnants of its coal-docking history. Russ Klisch acquired the property in 2014 for $1,192,000, and it is currently assessed at $937,600. The upcoming improvements reflect Klisch’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the brewery’s offerings and the surrounding community.
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As Lakefront Brewery prepares for this significant upgrade, the project promises to further solidify its status as a key destination in Milwaukee, drawing both locals and tourists alike. The proposed enhancements are expected to be a major step forward in making the riverfront area more vibrant and accessible for everyone.
