GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — The City of Green Bay is ready to move forward with phase two of the Shipyard project.
The outdoor space sits along the west bank of the Fox River, just north of the Mason Street bridge.
A riverfront promenade, boat slips and a kayak launch are just part of the original redevelopment of the Shipyard. The swings and serenity of the former brownfield appeal to locals.
“I actually brought my grandbabies here just the other day, just so they can take a look at it. This is a great place, we can come here,” said Mary Trevino of Green Bay.
With another $10 million, including half in grant funding, for the project, the city is prepared to attract even more people to the riverfront.
Officials unveiled concept renderings for phase two of the Shipyard during a committee meeting. The plans lay out what the city and residents want to see in the project.
“A lot of different features, a lot of different things. It will really kind of bring this park kind of to the next level,” said James Andersen, the deputy director of Green Bay’s Parks, Forestry and Recreation Department.
Plans include the addition of a great lawn — a space where festivals and concerts can be held. A statement art piece framing the riverfront will be the focal point, and a stage could be brought in for shows.
The Shipyard will also include a dog park, a playground for kids of all ages and a splash pad.
Andersen said, “We’re putting a lot in here, but the things that are in here are going to really be, I think, a little bit higher level than what we’re traditionally used to in a neighborhood park.”
Close to the water with river views, there will be a beach. The city is proposing space for two to four sand volleyball courts where leagues or tournaments could be played.
“Near the bridge is going to be where the sand volleyball courts and beer garden are,” Andersen said. “You’re also going to have an urban beach feel, with hammocks and different things that people can put their toes in the sand.”
The Shipyard isn’t just a park. It’s meant to be a destination for recreation and tourism.
“There’s a lot of different things in here, amenities that will bring people together. But it’s really the programming and the space activation that will anchor this and that comes obviously down the road once you have the amenity,” added Brian Johnson, executive director of OnBroadway and a Green Bay city councilmember.
Construction on phase two at the Shipyard is expected to get underway sometime next year.
In phase three of the project, the city would like to see a container park built. It would be a space for businesses to operate, within the park, attracting more visitors.
