A Year in the Valley

I served as the 2014 Menomonee Valley Artist in Residence. Project goals included documenting physical transformation in the Menomonee Valley and promoting public awareness of a nationally renowned redevelopment model.

The history of the Menomonee Valley is one of transformation. The original fertile wild rice marsh was completely filled as the Valley became Milwaukee’s industrial powerhouse. By the late twentieth century most of the industries had moved out, leaving blight and pollution. The last 15 years have seen efforts by the city, business interests and environmental advocates to revitalize the Valley. Visionary plans are underway that combine economic development with environmental restoration. Businesses have returned, the river has been rehabilitated and new parks have been created, along with new opportunities for arts, culture and recreation.

This book captures a 12-month slice of the ongoing story of the Menomonee Valley.