The Milwaukee Harbor Riverwalk is transforming the Kinnickinnic River waterfront into a more connected, accessible destination for residents and visitors. As part of the South Leg project, Walbec’s Zenith Tech (ZTI) is bringing specialized structural and concrete expertise to the west side of the river, helping turn a long-envisioned public space into reality.
Working for the City of Milwaukee, ZTI is constructing approximately 2,300 feet of new boardwalk and multiple pedestrian structures along S. Kinnickinnic Avenue. This segment began in June 2025 and is scheduled for completion in summer 2026.
PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS
- Building the backbone of the Riverwalk — ZTI’s bridge and site concrete teams are working together to construct two pedestrian structures and associated concrete elements that support the new boardwalk. The work brings together multiple areas of expertise within a constrained waterfront environment, where careful coordination and sequencing are essential.
- Solving complex field challenges — Unforeseen piling obstructions and gaps in plan information required the team to adapt as construction progressed. ZTI worked closely with the City and project partners to evaluate conditions, develop practical solutions, and keep work moving while maintaining quality and strong working relationships.
- Planning a complex waterfront installation — One of the project’s most technically demanding operations involves setting a large steel structure atop one of the pedestrian bridges. With installation taking place from the water and within a tight construction footprint, the team developed a carefully coordinated rigging and installation sequence to execute the work safely and efficiently.
- Keeping a high-profile project on track — Despite challenging site conditions and complex structural work, ZTI has maintained focus on schedule and budget through proactive planning, disciplined project management, and close coordination among project partners.
- Creating a lasting connection to Milwaukee’s waterfront — When complete, the South Leg will expand public access to the Kinnickinnic River and strengthen connections throughout Milwaukee’s Harbor District. The project represents a lasting investment in infrastructure that enhances how people experience and enjoy the city’s waterfront.
Building More Than Infrastructure
The Milwaukee Harbor Riverwalk – South Leg demonstrates what’s possible when technical expertise, collaboration, and creative problem-solving come together. From complex structural construction to adapting to unforeseen field conditions, Walbec is helping deliver an important piece of Milwaukee’s broader vision for a more accessible and connected waterfront.
Have a complex infrastructure project ahead? Let’s connect to learn how our diverse capabilities and collaborative approach can help bring it to life.
