Description

For more than two decades, many cities in the U.S. and Canada have considered making significant changes to their urban freeways, including removing them and converting them into streets and boulevards. This movement involves more than 30 cities across both countries, with nine located around the Great Lakes—seven in the U.S. and two in Canada. 

While there are numerous potential economic development benefits associated with freeway removal, it is essential to consider the significant risks involved. It is crucial to evaluate all potential risks and benefits when deciding on a plan for redesigning these freeways, as these decisions will impact communities for decades to come. The future of I-794 in Milwaukee serves as a prime example of this ongoing debate. The future of Milwaukee’s I-794 Lake Interchange has become one of the region’s most significant and closely monitored infrastructure discussions. 

With options ranging from rebuilding the existing elevated freeway to redesigning it for improved access—or even removing it entirely—the decisions made will shape mobility, investment, and economic activity for years to come. This webinar will explore the context and findings of the study Rebuild, Redesign, Remove: An Economic Analysis of Changes to I-794, commissioned by the Commercial Association of REALTORS® – Wisconsin (CARW) and prepared by DMP Development Analytics. 

The webinar will provide important context on why CARW felt a regional economic impact study was needed, particularly given that prior analyses had shown the potential for significant real estate development if the interstate were to be removed. The presenters will discuss the research framework and key conclusions of the study, including how the different design alternatives may affect: 

* Freight movement and regional logistics 

* Workforce access and commuting patterns 

* Tourism, visitors, and downtown economic activity 

The webinar will conclude with a discussion of the public reaction following the study’s release, including how the findings have contributed to ongoing conversations among policymakers, business leaders, real estate professionals, and the general public. This session is intended to inform—not advocate—by offering data-driven insights that help stakeholders better understand the potential economic tradeoffs associated with rebuilding, redesigning, or removing urban freeways. 

Who should attend: 

* Business and civic leaders 

* Real estate and development professionals 

* Transportation and planning practitioners 

* Public officials and policymakers 

* Community members interested in the future of Milwaukee’s transportation network 

Join us for an in-depth conversation on how infrastructure decisions intersect with economic competitiveness, regional access, and long-term growth.

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