The City of Milwaukee has announced the selection of The Neutral Project, LLC as the developer and MGA | Michael Green Architecture as the architect for the Marcus Performing Arts Center redevelopment. This innovative project aims to set a new global benchmark for mass timber construction, potentially featuring the tallest mass timber structure in the world and the tallest building in Wisconsin at up to 55 storeys and 1.2 million square feet across the development.

The proposed development represents a significant investment of over USD 700 million, encompassing multiple mixed-use buildings. The project, planned in several phases, could include up to 750 residential units, 190,000 square feet of office space, 40,000 square feet of retail space, 300 hotel rooms, parking spaces, and vibrant public plazas and walkways. MGA, renowned for its leadership in mass timber architecture, will spearhead the design efforts, supported by an experienced team including HGA, Gehl People, C.D. Smith, and Thornton Tomasetti.

This ambitious development underscores Milwaukee’s capability, alongside other smaller U.S. cities, to lead in innovation and sustainability. Smaller cities have unique opportunities to embrace cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices, setting examples for larger urban centers. By pioneering projects like this, they can become hubs of economic growth, cultural vibrancy, and environmental stewardship, demonstrating that transformative urban development is possible regardless of city size. Milwaukee’s commitment to sustainability and innovative construction techniques highlights its potential to inspire similar initiatives nationwide.