Gov. Scott Walker announced a $100 million economic initiative Monday designed to create jobs and improve industry in inner-city Milwaukee.
“Transform Milwaukee” will focus on the creation of an industrial, residential and transportation district, focusing on the poorest sections of the city, including its 30th Street corridor.
The Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority has committed $100 million to the Transform Milwaukee project over the next two years. It will be working with federal agencies as well as private foundations on neighborhood improvement projects the groups hope will create jobs and promote new business.
Walker said in a press release increasing industry and improving neighborhoods will strengthen Milwaukee.
“The State of Wisconsin will benefit through increased economic activity and decreased demand for unemployment and social services resources in the state’s largest city,” he said.
The project also includes plans to address storm water runoff as well as develop transportation infrastructure.
But Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett, a candidate running to replace Walker in the recall election, said he doubts Walker’s motivations in announcing the initiative.
Inner-city Milwaukee is an expected source of strength for Democrats in the upcoming election.
“Now, with thirty six days until he faces voters in a recall election, Gov. Walker is trying to act like he cares about providing jobs to the city of Milwaukee,” Barrett said in a statement. “It’s quite obvious, the only job Gov. Walker really cares about is his own.”
