WASHINGTON PARK PARTNERS
In 2010 United Methodist Children's Services became the convening agency for Washington Park Partners, a group of residents, businesses, organizations, and other stakeholders to create the Sustainable Community Plan. To learn more about the plan click here.
Based on the feedback and planning of residents in the Washington Park area, there is a strong need for jobs and assistance to homeowners. The Washington Park Partners is proud to present plans for a Washington Park Neighborhood Improvement District (WP NID). Full details of the plan can be found here. The WP NID will provide up to $60,000 of grants to homeowners to make repairs and improvements, and provide resources for community activities (i.e community gardens, art events,beautification projects), together with funds to continue the fight for important issues like decreasing the number of liquor stores and bringing fresh produce to the neighborhood.
WASHINGTON PARK NEIGHBORHOOD
The Washington Park neighborhood is rich with culture and history. At the heart of the Washington Park neighborhood is the park itself, a 124 acre space designed by the legendary landscape architect Fredrick Law Olmstead. There were band concerts, horse races, an observation deck and for more than 60 years, the Milwaukee County Zoo. The park is now home to the Urban Ecology Center, the Vliet Street Community Green Market, the Bandshell Concert Series, and countless events.
The first homes in the area were built in the early 1900s. Through the efforts of United Methodist Children's Services, New Covenant Housing Corp, the Housing Authority of the City of Milwaukee, Habitat for Humanity and private developers more than 150 new housing units have been added in the last five years. Dozens of new businesses have also located to the area. The neighborhood is quickly becoming the dessert capital of Milwaukee with Amaranth Bakery, Birdie's Cafe, Eat Cake, and Kehr's Candies.
Arts and education play a strong role in the life of the Washington Park families. The neighborhood is home to three outstanding primary schools. The schools partner with youth organizations, including Our Next Generation and Express Yourself Milwaukee. Washington Park area is also home to a large community of artists and over 10 public art projects.
Health and Wellness is a component to the neighborhood as well. Progressive Community Health Centers provide health services at its Lisbon Avenue Clinic. Milwaukee Bicycle Works provides low cost bikes to children and sponsors local rides and events. We also offer five community gardens and a Farmers Market that supports local vendors.