A landmark redevelopment project in Milwaukee is poised to set new records with the construction of the tallest mass timber building in the world and the tallest building in Wisconsin. The $700 million initiative, led by green developers The Neutral Project and designed by Michael Green Architecture (MGA), promises to transform the Marcus Performing Arts Center parking garage into a dynamic mixed-use development.
The Ambitious Project
The redevelopment will feature:
Residential Units: Up to 750 units
Office Space: 190,000 square feet
Retail Space: 40,000 square feet
Hotel Rooms: 300
Parking: 1,100 structured spaces
Public Spaces: Plazas and walkways
Milwaukee’s Mayor Cavalier Johnson expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, “As mayor, I have not been shy about my goal to grow our city’s population to one million Milwaukeeans. To do that, we need to be aggressive and reach for new heights. This project will help us do just that, literally aiming to set local and global records, but just as importantly add density and activity to an underutilized City-controlled parcel in downtown Milwaukee. It also represents a forward-thinking Milwaukee, open to outside investment and ideas, and I thank The Neutral Project for their confidence in Milwaukee’s future.”
Building on Milwaukee’s Record
Currently, Milwaukee is home to the world’s tallest mass timber tower, the 25-story Ascent MKE. The new project, referred to as The Marcus Center, is expected to reach up to 55 stories. This ambitious endeavor aims to surpass the existing record and solidify Milwaukee’s status as a leader in sustainable construction.
In addition to The Marcus Center, The Neutral Project is developing The Edison, a 32-story mass timber tower, further contributing to Milwaukee’s growing skyline.
The Vision for the Future
Michael Green, the architect behind the design, emphasized the significance of the project: “This project is an opportunity to create a meaningful and valuable new center in Milwaukee that also advances important proven building technologies and designs for the future of humanity and our planet. It sets a benchmark for achieving urban density and affordability while aligning with our common goal of low-carbon solutions to reduce the significant impacts of our changing climate.”
What is a Mass Timber Tower?
Mass timber towers are constructed primarily using engineered wood products such as cross-laminated timber (CLT), glulam (glued laminated timber), and laminated veneer lumber (LVL). These materials are engineered for strength and stability, allowing for the construction of tall structures traditionally built with concrete and steel.
Advantages of Mass Timber Construction:
Environmental Benefits: Wood is a renewable resource, and using engineered wood products can significantly reduce a building’s carbon footprint. Mass timber also stores carbon, helping to mitigate climate change.
Construction Efficiency: Prefabricated panels and components can be assembled quickly on-site, reducing labor costs and construction time.
Aesthetic Appeal: Mass timber provides a unique and visually appealing aesthetic, enhancing the building’s design.
The new development in Milwaukee not only represents a leap in architectural innovation but also a commitment to sustainable building practices. As the project progresses, it will be a landmark example of how cities can balance growth with environmental stewardship.
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