Anchored by a new 17,000 SF Milwaukee Public Library, MLK Library Apartments is a significant catalytic project at the center of the Harambee Neighborhood.
MLK Library Apartments is a $38.8 million mixed-use development located at the corner of Locust Street and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in Milwaukee's Harambee neighborhood. Completed in 2025, the project combines 93 affordable workforce apartments with a new 17,000-square-foot Milwaukee Public Library branch, creating a residential and civic destination along the historic MLK corridor. Situated at the center of Milwaukee's annual Juneteenth Day celebration, the development also incorporates the preservation of the historic Garfield Theater frontage, transforming former storefronts into eight two-story live/work residences. General Capital partnered with Emem Group as an emerging developer partner to bring the project to fruition.
Following years of planning and negotiations, construction began in spring 2023. The new Martin Luther King Branch Library offers modern technology, makerspaces, meeting rooms, and community gathering spaces alongside traditional library services. The development incorporates sustainable building features, including geothermal heating, solar panels, recycled materials, and a green roof, earning Green Built Home® certification. Financing combined affordable housing tax credit equity with support from Milwaukee Public Library, WHEDA, philanthropic organizations, and multiple public funding programs. With full residential occupancy and recognition through a City of Milwaukee Mayor's Design Award, MLK Library Apartments demonstrates the impact of collaborative redevelopment in expanding affordable housing, preserving neighborhood history, and strengthening community resources.
Key Themes
- Catalytic mixed-use redevelopment integrating affordable housing, public library, and historic preservation.
- Community-focused partnership with Emem Group and Milwaukee Public Library.
- Historic adaptive reuse transforming Garfield Theater storefronts into live/work residences.
- Sustainable development incorporating geothermal heating, solar energy, and green infrastructure.
- Neighborhood revitalization strengthening Milwaukee's historic MLK corridor and Harambee community.
Results
- $38.8 million development completed in 2025.
- 93 affordable workforce apartments delivered with full residential occupancy achieved.
- 17,000 SF public library providing expanded technology and community services.
- Eight historic live/work residences created through Garfield Theater preservation.
- Green Built Home® certification and Mayor's Design Award recognition achieved.