Green Bay Demands Timely Update from Delayed Developer
Green Bay officials are pressing an Iowa development firm for a realistic construction timeline for a long-stalled mixed-use project in the city’s Shipyard area. Merge Urban Development Group has until March 5 to present a feasible plan for the 238-unit development, which has faced delays for nearly five years. City leaders are growing impatient and have proposed new deadlines that the developer has deemed unmanageable.
Developer Under Pressure to Deliver Timelines
At a recent special meeting of the Redevelopment Authority, city officials expressed their frustration over the ongoing delays of the mixed-use development planned for riverfront property south of Bridge Street. The project, which was initially approved five years ago, has yet to break ground. Merge Urban Development Group must now provide an updated construction schedule by early March, following a vote on February 24.
Merge’s Managing Partner, Brent Dahlstrom, acknowledged the committee’s concerns but stated that the proposed timelines were unrealistic. He assured the board that the firm is actively working on the site and is close to obtaining the necessary approvals to begin foundation work. “Yours is of the utmost importance,” Dahlstrom told the Redevelopment Authority, emphasizing the project’s significance.
The city has set a deadline of June 1, 2026, for Merge to commence construction. If the firm fails to meet this deadline, the city reserves the right to repurchase the properties for just $1. Mayor Eric Genrich highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating that there is “growing impatience” to see construction begin on what he described as “the best site in Green Bay ready for construction right now.”
Overview of the Shipyard Development Plans
Merge’s ambitious plans for the Shipyard development include multiple buildings housing a total of 238 apartments across 5.73 acres at 239 Arndt St. and 119 Bridge St. The first phase will feature two buildings with 109 units, while the second phase aims to add another 129 units along with 4,000 square feet of commercial space for retail or dining options.
The city has allocated approximately $10 million for improvements to Shipyard Park, which will enhance the area with amenities such as a climbing wall, dog park, beach volleyball courts, and a splash pad. These upgrades are expected to transform Shipyard Park into a vibrant attraction, drawing visitors and events to the waterfront.
As the Redevelopment Authority awaits Merge’s updated plans, the city remains focused on ensuring that the long-delayed project finally moves forward, with the hope of revitalizing the Shipyard area and boosting local economic development.
