Vacant lot in Washington Park neighborhood transformed with art and green infrastructure

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- There's a once-vacant lot in Milwaukee's Washington Park neighborhood that's not so vacant anymore. 

It's been transformed, not by a home or office building, but something unique. Art Intersection MKE calls it a "community resilience hub."

It's a combination of art, science, and green infrastructure located near 35th and Vliet. 

Outdoor sculptures, murals, and multimedia art are on display, blended with eco-friendly infrastructure. Not only do the structures look great, but they help protect our waterways as well, collecting stormwater before it enters our sewer system. 

It's a place that the project's founder, Derrick Cainion, thinks will bring people together.

"Art is more than just aesthetics, it builds relationships. It boosts mental health, it instills pride and shifts the way people feel about where they live and the safety of the neighborhood," Cainion said. 

Organizers also hope to use the space to host events such as makers markets and art fairs.

Derrick Cainion