Streetcar Gentrification Fears in Milwaukee

The first leg of the Milwaukee streetcar, called The Hop, will open in late 2018 and serve downtown and the lakefront. A second leg is planned to run south to the Bronzeville and Walker's Point neighborhoods, and the city recently hosted several public meetings about the second phase.

The meetings drew crowds, and while many showed enthusiasm for transit investment and development, some voiced concern that gentrification will push those with lower incomes out. Others questions whether the new service will connect residents with good jobs.

Although funding has not yet been identified for the second leg of the Milwaukee streetcar, the city is using this public input to get ahead of the curve when planning for any land use changes.