Public meeting on Lake Parkway extension set for tonight

MILWAUKEE CO. -- The public is invited to weigh in Wednesday evening on a proposal to extend the Lake Parkway (Hwy. 794) farther south into Milwaukee County.

Right now, the Lake Parkway takes drivers in Milwaukee County's south shore communities and ends just south of Layton Ave. near Mitchell International Airport. It has become a critical link to homes and businesses on Milwaukee's south side. In Wednesday's meeting, the public will get a firsthand look at recommendations being made with respect to crossings, ramp treatments and other elements of the proposed extension.

While there is support for this project, it has its detractors as well. On Tuesday, Milwaukee Alderman Bob Bauman issued a statement which was critical of the project. He said, "In this era of budget cuts, budget deficits, furloughs, layoffs, benefit cuts, pay freezes, deteriorating local streets, deferred maintenance of critical infrastructure and a public transit system on life support, it appears that money is no obstacle in the minds of some Milwaukee County local officials when it comes to building new freeways."

The information session and public hearing on the proposed Lake Parkway extension is being held Wednesday from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at the South Milwaukee Performing Arts Center (901 15th Ave.).

You can also learn more about the proposed extension of the Lake Parkway by CLICKING HERE.