Chad Bathke
vice president
JH Findorff & Son Inc.
Scott Lindvalle
COO
HGA
Fueled by public and private investment, infrastructure improvements and a growing emphasis on long-term regional development, ranging from major airport expansions to health care modernization projects and cultural institutions, Milwaukee is seeing a steady pipeline of work that reflects both economic confidence and evolving community needs. While activity remains strong, companies are navigating a complex landscape plagued by labor shortages, rising costs and changing technology demands.
“Milwaukee’s AEC community is experiencing strong momentum right now, supported by continued investment throughout the region,” says Chad Bathke, vice president of JH Findorff & Son Inc. “There is constant activity in various types of projects, from health care to transportation and more, along with major infrastructure efforts that are helping to shape the city’s future.”
“Milwaukee’s AEC community is energized by a wave of landmark civic and infrastructure projects, as well as important decisions that will shape the future development of the city,” added Scott Lindvall, COO of architecture firm HGA, which has a dozen offices across the country, including in Milwaukee.
This broad growth is reflected in several high-profile projects currently underway. Among the highlights is the redevelopment of Concourse E at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport, which is expected to expand the airport’s capacity and enhance its role as an international travel hub.
“This transformative project will affect many travelers regionally, nationally and even internationally as it will be a hub for international travel,” says Bathke. “It highlights the region’s continued investment in infrastructure that supports long-term growth, connectivity and economic development.”
“The Interstate 94 East-West expansion represents one of the largest transportation investments in the region today, with far-reaching implications for mobility and development,” says Lindvall. “Milwaukee also continues to make progress on corridor redesigns such as the reconstruction of Water Street, expanded multimodal options and traffic safety initiatives, reflecting a clear trend toward prioritizing flexible and people-centered transportation solutions.”
Healthcare construction is also an important driver of activity. Findorff is currently involved in a renovation and addition to ProHealth Care Waukesha Memorial Hospital, part of a broader trend of improving health care facilities to meet the needs of growing and aging populations.
Major civic and cultural projects are also shaping the city’s landscape.
“The prevailing mindset, build now so things never get cheaper, is still a driving force.”
—Scott Lindvall, COO, HGA
“The new Milwaukee Public Museum is moving forward as an outstanding community anchor,” says Lindvall. “The Bronzeville Center for the Arts demonstrates continued investment in cultural equity, and innovation in sustainable construction remains strong, with high-rise wood buildings that position Milwaukee as a leader in this technology.”
Additionally, a $455 million, 650-room “headquarters” hotel is proposed to replace the Miller High Life Theater in Milwaukee.
Meanwhile, HGA is working with Milwaukee County on the Investing in Justice: Courthouse Complex (IJCC) project, which is in the early design stages to replace the public safety building, renovate portions of the historic courthouse, and maintain connections to the criminal justice facility.
Even with so much activity, Bathke sees conversations about data center development, energy demand, manufacturing growth and talent retention influencing decision-making in the AEC sector. The rise of artificial intelligence is also starting to play a role, with companies exploring how emerging technologies can improve efficiency and project outcomes, Bathke says.
Despite the positive outlook, challenges persist. Labor availability remains a major concern as companies struggle to find skilled labor to keep pace with demand. Rising construction costs, high interest rates and ongoing supply chain uncertainties are also putting pressure on project budgets and timelines.
“These are key areas that we continue to monitor,” says Bathke.
“The prevailing mentality, build now so things never get cheaper, remains a driving force as the city adapts to changing market conditions,” adds Lindvall.
