Clean Wisconsin is working closely with multiple partners on the Melvina Park Project Development Team. Together, we’re collaborating on the reimagining and restoration of an existing City of Milwaukee park.
Phase one of the park redevelopment is complete, which includes construction on the expanded park footprint, installation of bioswales, trees, and other features. This project also includes mitigation of some environmental contamination. A playground, a full basketball court, and other amenities are scheduled for completion in 2025. This park will be an exciting destination for community collaboration as well as a showcase of environmental stewardship.
Very recently, City As Living Laboratory (CALL) and community partners installed a WaterMarker as part of CALL’s WaterMarks project. According to their website, WaterMarks “is an initiative to develop a city-wide network of participatory engagement, to help us all to better understand the significance of water in our everyday lives.” The WaterMarker is a sculpture equipped with Wi-Fi for park-goers and the letter atop the pole will pulse before heavy rain, which serves as a reminder to residents about limiting at-home water consumption. If residents within the combined sewer area use less water during heavy storms, it can increase the water reclamation facilities’ capacity to treat more water. Residents chose the letter “C” for the WaterMarker, to commemorate the Century City Triangle neighborhood, where the park is located, as well as “community.”
We are also partnering with Tru Skool and MKE FreshAir Collective to install a series of murals at the park, which will use air purifying paint that can absorb pollutants, chemicals, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The subject matter of the murals will be guided by ongoing conversations between residents and the artists. An air quality monitor will also be installed as part of this project.
