Economic Development

County officials have begun planning for a new bus rapid transit line to connect central city neighborhoods with growing suburban job centers west of Milwaukee. They have hired a consultant to develop a grant application for federal funding that will be submitted later this year.

A last-minute grant from the United Way of Greater Milwaukee and Waukesha will help prevent cuts to Social Development Commission’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program.

A panel of city and state leaders discussed possible solutions to the problem of inequality at a summit organized by the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s Urban Studies Program.

A summit focused on addressing the issue of black male unemployment in Milwaukee drew criticism from some attendees for not including the individuals being discussed. Black speakers said discrimination and exclusion are at the root of the problem.

At the first of what will be a monthly series of discussions with State Rep. David Bowen, black community leaders said Milwaukee’s current fiscal priorities will not change conditions in the city.