Harley-Davidson Museum Site Chosen

Harley-Davidson plans to build its long anticipated museum just south of the downtown Milwaukee area. The tract of land is 20 acres, with 3 acres devoted to parking lots.

Located in the developing Menomonee Valley, the museum and restaurant will create approximately 175 jobs, while the corporate offices for some Harley operations would generate another 280 to 400 jobs, according to Harley. The motor company expects 350,000 visitors annually to visit the complex. Although there is widespread support for the project, expected to be completed in 2007, there are concerns with some of the costs and use of the land.

Located where the 6th Street Viaduct meets W. Canal Street, the location is near downtown and the historic Walker’s Point. The cost to the City of Milwaukee for the project is said to be anywhere between $22 million and $27 million, $20 million of which would be used to move a Department of Public Works building at the site.

The Menomonee Valley Business Association has approved a resolution supporting Harley’s plans and the Department of City Development has agreed to pay Harley $7 million for development costs.

Some local aldermen have questioned the 3-acre parking lot plan instead of looking to develop a parking structure, which would use less land. Harley Museum Director, Lara Lee, said the structure would be more costly and less desirable. Harley would like to utilize the parking areas for outdoor events, which a parking structure could not do.

Final approval of the plans rests with the Common Council. Of note, both mayoral candidates, Acting Mayor Marvin Pratt and former congressman, Tom Barrett, have voiced their support for Harley’s plans.

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