Civil Municipal Magazine - Nov 2023

135 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 9, ISSUE 12 SOUTH MI LWAUKEE , WISCONSIN Historically, South Milwaukee has been an industry epicenter, most notably home to the Bucyrus Erie Company, which once manufactured the world’s largest steam shovels. Yet, beyond the impressive shadows of industrial machinery, one also discovers a city pulsating with life, culture, and natural beauty. Grant Park Beach, for instance, invites visitors and residents alike with its pristine sands and panoramic lake vistas, creating an idyllic backdrop for those seeking solace or adventure. As the town strides into the 21st century, it has embraced change while cherishing its heritage. A diverse melting pot of businesses – from quaint boutiques to large scale manufacturing – now find a home here, showcasing South Milwaukee’s adaptability and commitment to fostering innovation. Yet, at its heart, it remains a community where neighbors greet each other by name and where every street corner tells a story. Festivals, farmers’ markets, and local theatre productions add layers of color and vibrancy to the town’s canvas, making it an enticing destination for business and life. South Milwaukee’s Evolution: From Industrial Roots to a Flourishing Future As times change, South Milwaukee is gearing up for a transformative phase, balancing its commercial and residential aspirations. Patrick Brever, the city’s Economic Development Director, highlights some pivotal projects reshaping the city’s economic landscape. “A significant portion of the Bucyrus campus remained vacant after their sale to Caterpillar,” he notes. However, the tides are turning. “Steele Solutions in Wisconsin has named South Milwaukee as their new headquarters. We also had an apparel business, Styled Aesthetic, move into a former Bucyrus building, almost tripling their square footage.” Though larger enterprises have made significant strides in the city, South Milwaukee’s heart remains with its small businesses. Brever underscores the