Unleashing Urban Growth in Green Bay with Nova Green Bay
Construction Begins with Excitement
Much of the New Land Enterprises staff made the journey from Milwaukee to join Green Bay officials and stakeholders on Thursday afternoon for a groundbreaking ceremony. The parking lot has already been cleared, and heavy equipment is now hard at work, tearing into the ground. New Land Managing Director Tim Gokhman expressed his excitement, stating, "I cannot overstate how excited we are to be here. It is truly an honor to be part of this project in this great city."
This $55 million mixed-use high-rise will add 268 new apartments and a plethora of luxury amenities in the heart of downtown. It will also be the first new addition to the Green Bay skyline since 2016. City Council Member Brian Johnson emphasized the significance, saying, "To see the way (New Land) activates their spaces and the high-quality construction, it's truly exciting. This is a spot that has been targeted for development, and we look forward to seeing more like this in Green Bay."
Nova Green Bay's Twitter Roots
Nova Green Bay's journey began in late 2022 when Mayor Eric Genrich directly messaged New Land Managing Director Tim Gokhman on Twitter, expressing interest in developing housing outside the Milwaukee area. Genrich was committed to bringing high-quality development to Green Bay, stating, "I'm willing to do absolutely everything from direct messages to formal engagements. We're going to make this happen."
By May 2023, the group secured a planning option for the property, and in early 2024, they presented their plans. A year later, in May 2024, the Green Bay City Council approved a development agreement with New Land. This marked a significant milestone in the project's progress.
A Key Sign of Downtown Growth
Jeff Mirkes, executive director of Downtown Green Bay Inc., is excited to see construction equipment arrive and excavation work begin. He believes this is a key central city site for growth and the first sign of a wave of residential development coming to downtown. "This development sends a really important message that downtown is a great place to live and will be a catalyst for future residential opportunities," Mirkes said.
The eight-story, J-shaped building will include a wide range of amenities for residents, such as a third-floor rooftop swimming pool and community room, more than 280 enclosed parking stalls, a golf simulator, green roof, game area, and a pet spa. Once complete, it is expected to add at least $38 million to the city's tax rolls.
Packers Heritage Trail Plaza Relocation
Nova Green Bay's construction required a new location for the Packers Heritage Trail plaza. The city and the Green Bay Packers reached an agreement this fall to remove the plaza and deliver its statues and displays to the Packers. Matt Buchanan, the city's deputy development director, said contracts are being signed for the plaza's removal, and work is expected to start before the end of the year.
Keeping Downtown Informed
Construction will take 18-21 months, and downtown business owners, property owners, shoppers, and residents are concerned about parking and road closures. Mirkes recognizes these concerns and said Downtown Green Bay Inc. will regularly relay construction updates to them. "There will be a lot of impacts in the coming year and a half, but we'll maintain an interface with the contractors and city departments to keep everyone informed," Mirkes said. Anyone can sign up to receive updates by emailing info@downtowngreenbay.com.
Baylake City Center Concerns
One of the concerns raised by downtown stakeholders was the impact on Baylake City Center. Entrances to Spring Lake Church and other tenant spaces will need to be relocated. Buchanan said the building's condominium association recently submitted a façade improvement grant application that is currently under review. This will start the process of reorienting building entrances to face Adams Street or Washington Street.
Uncovering the Impact of a Construction Class on a Student's Future
Construction Class: The Happy Accident
When Jocelyn was a junior at Carrollton High School, she found herself enrolled in a construction class that she didn't recall requesting. However, this class turned out to be a turning point in her life. "Honestly, I like to call it a 'happy accident,'" she recalls. "It turned out that I quite enjoyed the class, and Mr. Stone said I should consider the RaLin Construction Academy."Mr. Stone, a long-time construction superintendent and the director of Field Operations at RaLin Construction when the partnership with Carrollton High School was developed in 2018, saw something special in Jocelyn. "Chris is a natural," Garrett said. "His years of mentoring and teaching RaLin field workers would transfer well to an internship program. He was made for this job."Flourishing in the Academy
Jocelyn took Mr. Stone's advice and continued with the academy. She flourished and decided to attend the Women in Construction Summer Camp at Auburn University between her junior and senior years. After graduating in 2024, she was hired as a summer intern for RaLin's pre-construction team. She also received the RaLin Memorial Scholarship to further her education.Today, Jocelyn, the daughter of Efren Hernandez and Lorena Perez Alvarez, is a freshman at Auburn majoring in construction and building science. She is the recipient of the McWhorter School of Building Science RaLin Annual Scholarship, presented to a student who exhibits academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to the construction industry.Overcoming Shyness and Thriving
Jocelyn has never considered herself a leader, but Mr. Stone pushed her past her comfort zone. "I can be quite shy. It takes me a while to open up to people," she says. "Mr. Stone didn't let me stick to my corner. I think he saw potential in me that I wasn't even aware existed." Under Stone's guidance, Jocelyn participated in the Associated General Contractors of America high school student competitions and performed well."Jocelyn Hernandez never shied away from a task or challenge; maybe skeptical at first, but soon to overcome and succeed," says Stone. "She was a delight to instruct because of her enthusiasm and energy, which was contagious to those around her."Finding Her Path
For Jocelyn, the RaLin Construction Academy experience led to an epiphany. "I always knew that I was going to go to college, but I never really knew what I wanted to study," she says. "I would jump back and forth from ideas without a concrete path. For a while, I wanted to be a mechanical engineer. Then, a writer. Then, a physical therapist. Journalism was even thrown into the mix at one point. There was so much I could choose from, but nothing felt solid. Now look where I am. I'm quite content with my choice."Transforming Leesburg's Aviation Hub with New Hangars
Stormwater Retention and Utility Relocation
The multiyear project encompasses crucial aspects such as stormwater retention and utility relocation. These measures are essential for ensuring the smooth operation and sustainability of the airport. By addressing stormwater issues, the airport can better manage water runoff and protect the surrounding environment. The relocation of utilities also allows for more efficient use of space and better integration of the new hangars into the existing infrastructure. This attention to detail in the initial stages of the project sets the stage for a successful expansion.It is remarkable to see how these seemingly mundane tasks are integral to the overall growth and development of the airport. The careful planning and execution of stormwater retention and utility relocation demonstrate the city's commitment to providing a world-class aviation facility.
These efforts not only enhance the functionality of the airport but also contribute to its long-term viability. By addressing these fundamental aspects early on, the airport is better positioned to meet the growing demands of the aviation community and support future development.
Ground and Pavement Infrastructure Work
The ground and pavement infrastructure work is another critical component of the Phase I plan. This includes the construction of new pavements and the improvement of existing ones. The new pavements will provide a stable and safe surface for aircraft operations, ensuring the smooth flow of traffic and reducing the risk of accidents.The attention to detail in the pavement work is evident, with careful consideration given to factors such as drainage and load-bearing capacity. This ensures that the airport can handle the increasing number of aircraft and support the growth of the aviation industry.
The improvement of the existing pavement also plays a vital role in maintaining the overall integrity of the airport. By addressing any existing issues and upgrading the pavement, the airport can provide a more reliable and efficient service to its users.
Supporting the Aviation Community
The addition of four new hangars is set to have a significant impact on the aviation community in Leesburg. These hangars will provide much-needed storage space for private airplanes and commercial aircraft, meeting the growing demand for aeronautical and business site storage.The new hangars will not only offer a convenient place for aircraft owners to park and maintain their planes but also attract new businesses to the airport. This increased activity will create jobs and drive economic development in the local area.
Leesburg International Airport has always been an economic driver for the city, and these new hangars are another step in that direction. They will help to solidify the airport's role as a hub for aviation and business, attracting more investment and growth.
Teamwork and Dedication
The success of this project is a testament to the incredible teamwork and dedication of various stakeholders. From the city commissioners and managers to the airport advisory board and aviation engineers, everyone has played a crucial role in making this expansion a reality.Commissioner Alan Reisman, a staunch supporter of the airport, has been instrumental in driving the project forward. His passion for aviation and commitment to the community have been evident throughout the process.
Airport Manager Tracey Dean has also been a key figure, leading the team with her determination and hard work. Despite having little aviation experience, she has become an exceptional asset to the airport and the community, driving its recent growth.
The collaboration between these individuals and the various contractors and consultants has been seamless, resulting in a project that is on track and set to deliver significant benefits to the city.