MLK Library Apartments
← Back to Results
Project Links
2025Year Built |
93Total Units |
17,000 SFMilwaukee Public Library |
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 93-unit workforce housing development located at the corner of Locust Street and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in Milwaukee’s Harambee Neighborhood. The location is at the heart of Milwaukee’s annual Juneteenth Day Celebration, a community gathering attracting thousands of revelers with a parade as the highlight of the festivities. General Capital partnered with Emem Group as an emerging developer partner.
After years of negotiation, the project broke ground in Spring 2023. The project is anchored by Milwaukee Public Library’s Martin Luther King Branch, a new state-of-the-art public library with community space, extensive technology and traditional library offerings in a 17,000 SF space. As part of the full block redevelopment, the historic Garfield Theater shops are transformed into vibrant live/work units.
The $38.8 million project was funded by a wide array of financial resources including tax credit equity, MPL loan, WHEDA ARPA loan, Bader Foundation loan, SAG grant, GIPP grant, Housing Trust Funds and a Badger Bounce Back grant.
KEY THEMES
- Catalytic mixed-use development combined affordable housing, a modern public library, and historic preservation to strengthen Milwaukee's Harambee neighborhood
- Community-focused partnership integrated public amenities, housing, and neighborhood investment into a unified civic destination
- Historic Garfield Theater frontage was preserved and adapted into unique live/work residences supporting local entrepreneurship
- Sustainable design incorporated geothermal heating, solar panels, recycled materials, and a green roof to achieve Green Built Home® certification
- Transit-oriented location along the MLK Corridor provides convenient access to neighborhood services, public transportation, and community resources
RESULTS
- Successfully delivered a mixed-use development featuring 93 affordable workforce housing units
- Completed a new 17,000 SF Milwaukee Public Library branch offering technology, makerspaces, meeting rooms, and expanded community services
- Restored the historic Garfield Theater façade and created eight two-story live/work residences for home-based businesses
- Achieved Green Built Home® certification through high-performance building systems and sustainable construction practices
- Project reached full residential occupancy and received the City of Milwaukee Mayor's Design Award for excellence in urban design and community impact
Related Residential Projects
