MILWAUKEE — The Port of Milwaukee took a major step forward in expanding its Great Lakes cruising business with the groundbreaking of a new $9 million South Shore cruise dock in Bayview.
State and city leaders celebrated the milestone this morning as construction began on what will become the city's third cruise dock. Mayor Cavalier Johnson allocated $5 million in his budget to complete the project, while the state contributed an additional $4 million.
The new facility is designed to accommodate Seawaymax vessels — the largest type of ship capable of navigating the Great Lakes — and is expected to be operational for next year's cruising season.
Watch: Milwaukee breaks ground on $9M cruise dock to boost Great Lakes tourism
"This project we are here to celebrate today required planning, coordination, patience, funding, numerous reviews, did I mention patience?! Cuz it took us a while to get here," Port Director Jackie Q. Carter said during the groundbreaking ceremony.
Supporters emphasize the economic benefits the dock will bring to Milwaukee through increased tourism and job creation.
"The South Shore cruise dock is an investment in Milwaukee as a premier Great Lakes cruising destination. With this dock, we are opening our city's doors to travelers around the country and around the world," Peggy Williams-Smith, president and CEO of Visit Milwaukee, said.
The expansion positions Milwaukee to capture a larger share of the growing Great Lakes cruise market, with the new dock specifically designed to handle the region's largest vessels.
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