Now that summer is finally here, why not explore some of Milwaukee’s history, and what better way to do it than by a kayak or boat tour? The Milwaukee County Historical society is partnering with Milwaukee Kayak and edelweiss boats to make history seeking more accessible. Available on select dates this summer, check out milwaukeekayak.com to learn more about Kayak tours along the Milwaukee River! For information on boat tours of Milwaukee, visit edelweissboats.com!

The latest episode of The Hopcast features Omar Shaikh from 3rd Street Market Hall with host and Westown board president, Jeff Sherman. It’s a fun conversation on Milwaukee’s culinary scene, his efforts to keep Milwaukee moving forward as a major league city and even features a behind-the-scenes look at a coming-soon addition to the 3rd Street Market Hall, right here in Westown. Check out the full episode here!

Westown Association announced the vendor lineup for the 2023 season of the Milwaukee Night Market presented by Clover® from Fiserv. Over 180 local businesses will participate in the summer event, transforming West Wisconsin Avenue into a unique environment for individuals of all ages and backgrounds to experience the best that Milwaukee has to offer. The diverse lineup of vendors features a variety of artists, restaurateurs, farmers, crafters and makers of all sorts that will showcase their talents to the estimated 30,000 attendees each night. The 2023 Night Markets will be held on June 14, July 19, August 16 and September 13 from 5 to 10 p.m. on West Wisconsin Avenue…

Milwaukee County’s Bus Rapid Transit, now known as CONNECT, launched service on Sunday, June 4. The route has dedicated bus lanes for a fast and reliable way to travel. CONNECT will provide a high frequency transportation service that will span for nine miles throughout Milwaukee. It will also feature fewer stops that take residents to educational and recreational opportunities located across Milwaukee. To learn more about CONNECT, visit ridemcts.com/connect.

We are pleased to welcome Megan Townsend to our team! Megan is the new Event Production Intern for Westown Association, and joins us part-time for the summer. Megan is currently entering her senior year at Marquette University and is studying Communication Studies and Elementary/Middle School Education. Megan enjoys spending time with friends and family, exploring the city and going to basketball games. She is excited to be part of Westown Association and work on events that enhance the Milwaukee community. We are also excited to have Liam Harris on the team! Liam is the new Marketing & Social Media Intern and is currently entering his Junior year at Marquette University,…

During the last year, the Downtown Plan project team has sought public input to develop six “big ideas” for how public and private investment can drive physical changes for downtown Milwaukee. A draft of the CONNEC+ING MKE: Downtown Plan 2040 was shared with the public this week. You can learn more about the Plan recommendations and projects at the final Community Open House on Thursday, May 11 from 3:30 to 6:60 p.m. at the 3rd St. Market Hall.

We are pleased to welcome Annika Einertson to our team! Annika is the new Program & Marketing Assistant for Westown Association, and joins us part-time until her graduation in May. Annika is currently finishing up her senior year at UWM studying Journalism, Advertising, and Media Studies with a focus in Public Relations. Annika enjoys live music, collecting jewelry and exploring the city. You can contact her at annika@westown.org.

This month, the RNC Host Committee launched their Vendor Connection portal. Local businesses interested in Convention opportunities should submit their information at mke2024host.org to be considered by the meeting planners. VISIT Milwaukee will use this database to promote local businesses for future large-scale events.

As the weather gets nicer and more activity happens in the neighborhood, we would like to provide our members with updated information for District One‘s community contacts. View the full contact guide here.

On April 24, Mayor Cavalier Johnson signed legislation to fund the development of the Vel R. Phillips Plaza at 5th Street and Wisconsin Avenue. The new public space is expected to open in summer 2024 . The City is seeking proposals from vendors to plan, manage and operate food and beverage concessions at the 2,900-square-foot building located in the plaza. Interested vendors can find the RFP here. Proposals must be submitted by July 31 at 11 a.m.