Two-phase Hampton Avenue construction project includes green upgrades

MILWAUKEE -- Hampton Avenue in Milwaukee between Teutonia and Green Bay avenues is under construction.

The city recently broke ground on an extensive project in the area, which includes new concrete pavement on the road, new curbs, gutters, driveway approaches and sidewalks and replacing storm sewer inlets. 

One of the unique features of the project is \"green\" infrastructure improvements.

\"This project will include seven bio retention facilities, or bio swales, in the new boulevards as well as landscaping elements that help remove silt and pollution from storm water runoff,\"  said DPW Commissioner Ghassan Korban.

The bio swales are designed with gently sloping sides with vegetation, compost, and rocks that filter water as it's held in the wide and shallow ditch. Pollutants and silt are also trapped here, resulting in less-polluted rainwater flowing into storm drains and sewers. 

The two-phase project is expected to wrap up by November.

Businesses and agencies in the area will remain open and signage will direct motorists and pedestrians to their destinations. 

The Milwaukee County Transit System will maintain its service on Hampton Avenue, with bus stops moving to the median when construction prevents stopping at the curb.

Parking is not allowed in the construction zone along Hampton Avenue. 

Fore more information on the project, visit the Department of Public Works' website at www.city.milwaukeegov/mpw.