September 23, 2009 

NEWS FROM THE MAYOR

Dear Friends,

The Milwaukee region has many assets that help us compete in the global economy. What we lack is a true comprehensive transit system that connects workers to jobs and connects the City of Milwaukee to the rest of the region. In fact, the City of Milwaukee is one of the largest cities in the Unites States without a fixed transit system. Transit is a vital piece of public infrastructure and an important quality of life issue.

In 2007, recognizing the importance of transit to Milwaukee's economy, the City, in partnership with the State of Wisconsin, completed a $15 million renovation to an aging and deteriorating Amtrak Station. Each year, more than one million users of Amtrak and intercity bus service pass through the new Intermodal Station. In the future, the proposed high-speed rail initiative and the Kenosha-Racine-Milwaukee commuter rail will stop at the Intermodal Station.

As a result of the expected increase in passenger volume at the Intermodal Station, it is vitally important that Milwaukee has a local transit connection from major destinations to the Intermodal Station. More than two years ago I proposed a comprehensive transit strategy that used the long-debated $91.5 million in federal funds available to Milwaukee for transit improvements. My plan included an initial modern streetcar line originating at the Intermodal Station and bus rapid transit lines connecting downtown with neighborhoods and other employment centers. The vision of the streetcar system is to create a world class, cost-effective and environmentally-friendly transportation alternative for Milwaukee residents and visitors.

In March 2009, Congress broke the gridlock and split the $91.5 million, with 60 percent ($54.9 million) of the funds going to the City for an initial streetcar system and the remaining 40 percent going to Milwaukee County for bus rapid transit lines. As a result of the split, I am moving forward with an initial streetcar line that will connect the Intermodal Station with the central business district, dense residential neighborhoods near downtown and attractions. As more funds become available, I hope to expand the streetcar system to reach additional neighborhoods.

Last Friday, I unveiled details regarding the proposed streetcar and routes at the Urban Economic Development Association's summit on transportation. I would like to invite you to an open house on the initial streetcar line, which will be held on October 8, 2009 from 3-7p.m. on the first floor of the Zeidler Municipal Building (841 N. Broadway) to learn more about the details of the proposed streetcar line alternatives and provide your input. If you are unable to attend the open house, you can find additional information and submit your comments or questions at: www.milwaukeeconnector.com

Let's move Milwaukee forward!
Sincerely,

Mayor, City of Milwaukee  

Visit my website at: http://www.city.milwaukee.gov/mayor