Sherman Park renovation project breaks ground; what it includes

MILWAUKEE - Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee, along with local leaders, unveiled plans for a multi-million dollar renovation to Sherman Park on Wednesday.

The ceremonial groundbreaking marks the beginning of the "Sherman Park Re-Imagined" renovation project. The park has been home to the Mary Ryan Boys & Girls Club site since 1991. 

"There are young people who attend this club every day that may grow to be a senator, that may grow up to be an executive director," said Deonte Lewis with Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee.

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The future is the project's focus. It will include resurfaced basketball courts, a revived concession area and more.

"This effort will feature 12 exterior park improvements," County Executive David Crowley said. "That will mean new lighting through the park, new pathways, a new splash pad and more amenities."

Rendering for multi-million dollar Sherman Park renovation project

The first phase will start this spring, and the second phase is estimated to end around November. Leaders hope it will make a positive impact for the people who use the park and live in the neighborhood. 

"It’s really having a fun and safe place for them to play and be in the parks and activate parks across the city, starting with one that is one of the most important parks in the central city here," Lewis said.

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Mabel Lamb has lived a block away from Sherman Park for nearly 25 years. She is now the executive director of the Sherman Park Community Association.

"I’m super excited," she said. "I would love to see families utilizing the park."

Lamb hopes the multi-million dollar transformation makes the park an even better place to hang out and offer programs for young people and families.

Both Sherman Park and the Mary Ryan Club will remain open while construction is ongoing.