GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Nearly seven years after development at the site was first proposed, shovels went into the ground at the Shipyard along Green Bay’s riverfront.
A groundbreaking ceremony for the Shipyard’s first phase was held today (Thursday) at the project’s south side off W. Mason Street.
Plans for the Shipyard have changed several times over the years.
The first phase of construction will include a riverfront promenade, floating docks, a fishing pier, and kayak launch. It’s expected to cost about $7.8 million.
About four years ago, the city council approved borrowing up to $10 million for the entire Shipyard project.
With about $3.5 million already spent on land acquisition, site engineering and site grading, the city’s Redevelopment Authority approved borrowing an additional $2.6 million in May to get the phase one work done.
The city is contractually obligated to put in the amenities under the development agreement it has with Merge Urban Development. That is the developer planning to build 225 apartment units at the Shipyard.
In May, the National Park Service awarded the city a $5 million grant toward the project.
Construction of the second phase is tentatively expected to begin next year. That phase will include a great lawn for concerts, festivals, and other events; a dog park; urban beach; adventure playground; and splash pad.
A third phase is slated to include a commercial plaza to support local start-up businesses that specialize in food, beverage, retail and recreation.
