Monterey Market to replace Walmart with new grocery store and upgraded signage

In a recent meeting of the Milwaukee Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee, significant developments were discussed that promise to reshape local neighborhoods and enhance community services. The focus was primarily on the revitalization of the Tenth Aldermanic District, where the closure of a Walmart grocery store in May 2024 left a gap in essential services.

Monterey Market, a local grocery chain, has stepped in to fill this void by acquiring the former Walmart site. The plan involves transforming the space into a full-service grocery store, which will be Monterey Market's third location. The existing building will largely remain unchanged, but two additional commercial spaces are planned for restaurant and office use. The committee expressed enthusiasm for this development, highlighting the importance of having a grocery store in the area to meet community needs.

A key aspect of the proposal is the requested modification to the site's signage. The new monument sign will feature a video component and increased height, designed to enhance visibility without being intrusive to the surrounding residential areas. The Plan Commission has already endorsed this signage upgrade, indicating strong support for the project.

In addition to the grocery store development, the committee also discussed a significant investment by Aurora Healthcare in the Near West Side. Aurora plans to convert the former Wisconsin Avenue school into a health and wellness center, investing nearly $50 million. This facility aims to provide essential services such as prenatal care, housing assistance, and chronic disease prevention, addressing critical health disparities in the community.

The project has garnered support from local leaders and community members, with a payment in lieu of taxes agreement ensuring that the city will receive property tax revenue despite the nonprofit status of Aurora. This agreement is seen as a model for future developments, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors to enhance community health and well-being.

Overall, the discussions at the committee meeting reflect a proactive approach to addressing community needs through strategic development and investment. The anticipated changes are expected to revitalize the area, improve access to essential services, and foster a stronger sense of community in Milwaukee.