Development News for West Allis, Wisconsin

City Approves 2026 CDBG Annual Action Plan with $1.4 Million Funding

The council approved the fiscal year 2026 annual action plan for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, anticipating available funding of $1.4 million. The CDBG committee received and awarded applications last fall, with agreements pending notification from HUD regarding actual funding levels. Notification was received on April 6th, showing funding approximately $11,000 less than estimated. A public hearing is required for the funded activities. The overall budget includes an estimated $261,733 of program income for the program year, covering activities in administration, public service, housing rehabilitation, economic development, and public facility improvements. The plan is submitted annually and reviewed by HUD later in the year, with funds disbursed once approved. The process is described as somewhat backward.

CDBG Funds Reallocated for 65th and National Pedestrian Improvements

The council reviewed a resolution to approve a substantial amendment reallocating $159,523 in prior year's unused Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds. These funds, originally unprogrammed from 2020-2025, will be directed towards completing the 65th and National pedestrian improvements project. Unprogrammed funds accumulate from activities not using their full allotment or from interest income and repayments on loans, which are then reallocated. This amendment requires a public hearing as per the citizen participation plan for substantial changes to the annual plan. The project involves pedestrian and bicycle improvements between 66th Street and the former railroad spur, aiming to create a safer crossing and improve connectivity between the west side and Makers Row. It includes bumpouts at corners, a midblock crossing with rapid flashing rectangular beacons, parking adjustments for better sight distances, and improvements at the 65th and National intersection. A bicycle repair station will be installed at the farmers market. The original budget for the project was $110,000 ($42,000 for design, $68,000 for construction), but bids came in higher, necessitating this additional funding. The total amended amount will complete the project. Future plans include a companion project from the railroad crossing to 70th Street for bus pull-in lanes, bumpouts, and pedestrian safety improvements.

Mayor Highlights Community Events, Safety Initiatives, and Traffic Concerns

Mayor Divine provided updates on various community events and initiatives. He thanked attendees of the citywide cleanup on Saturday morning, noting the participation of local officials and community groups. He also recognized May as Asian-American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, celebrating the contributions of these communities. Public Works Week was acknowledged, with thanks extended to the crews for their daily work and for hosting an open house. EMS Week was also mentioned, emphasizing the safety of patients and first responders. The mayor addressed a recent unfortunate incident where a four-year-old was struck by a vehicle, thankfully with minor injuries. He urged all residents to slow down, obey traffic laws, and drive respectfully, especially during the summer, citing construction and the need for adequate travel time. He stressed that speeding is not worth the risk and affects people of all ages. Aldermen also provided reports, including recognition for Robert Lysa as Wisconsin Health Officer of the Year and a reminder about the Memorial Day ceremony. Office hour locations were announced for future dates.

Conditional Use Permit Approved for Tennyson Event Space at Makers Row

The city council held a public hearing for a conditional use permit for the Tennyson event space, proposed by Sali and Nicholas Ramos, owners of Antigua Restaurant. The space, located at 6601 West National Avenue within the Makers Row redevelopment area, is approximately 5,000 square feet and will occupy 6,000 square feet of the 15,000 square foot Makers Row building. The zoning is C3 Commercial, which permits this conditional use due to the assembly of people. The event space is intended for weddings, business events, corporate luncheons, and other celebrations. Operating hours are 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM on weekdays, extending to midnight on Friday and Saturday, and 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM on Sundays. Minor building alterations and exterior site improvements, including a new patio, are planned. Management will coordinate transportation, monitor guest access, and manage noise levels. The interior will include an event space, bride room, storage, kitchen, restrooms, and a bar. A liquor license application has been submitted. The patio will be on the south side along Lapam, featuring seating, a retaining wall, landscaping, guardrails, and specialized lighting. The exterior facade will have one additional window and awnings. There were no objections to the proposal, and council members asked clarifying questions about the adjacent Sona 2 development, kitchen facilities, and potential conflicts with farmers market times. The staff confirmed that events would likely occur after farmers market hours, and parking coordination would be managed.