Plan commission approves Makers Row tenant plans: Electric Rose coffee/bar and Fork Farms hydroponic operation

The West Allis Plan Commission recommended approval of tenant plans for Makers Row, a redeveloped 11,000‑square‑foot building adjacent to the farmers market. Two separate tenants were presented: Electric Rose (a coffee shop by day that will operate as a cocktail bar with small plates in the evening) and Fork Farms, an indoor hydroponic producer proposing a 5,000‑square‑foot production area.

Staff said Electric Rose plans a 4,000‑square‑foot space that will seat approximately 116 patrons (60 ground‑floor seats, roughly 18 on a mezzanine and about 38 outdoor seats). The kitchen and evening food service hours were described roughly as 4 p.m.–8 p.m. (weeknights) and into the evening on weekends; staffing was estimated at five full‑time and three to four part‑time employees. Common Council review is anticipated on Dec. 9, and staff asked Mandel Group owner Bob Monnen to provide a landscaping schedule for areas originally approved but not yet planted.

Fork Farms will occupy about 5,000 square feet and use a loading dock and service corridor for deliveries; staff reported the tenant expects to produce about 34,000 pounds of produce annually, operate primarily 8 a.m.–5 p.m., and employ three to four farm staff plus 12–15 office staff (many on hybrid schedules). Fork Farms said it will use smaller box trucks (about two weekly) to load from the dock and may offer prearranged tours.

Commissioners moved and seconded approval of the Makers Row tenant plans; the motion carried by voice vote. Staff noted signage and building permits will return for review as needed.