Greenhouse redevelopment for hemp grower, landscaper wins OK
The redevelopment of greenhouses and other buildings on Milwaukee’s far south side into space for a landscaper, a hemp grower and other businesses has received a city preliminary zoning approval.
The 4-acre property, at 4565 and 4769 S. 20th St., is being redeveloped by Bryan Simon, who operates Simon Landscape Co., and advertising firm Direct Outdoors.
The $1.15 million project has actually been underway since Simon bought the site, which is just south of I-894, in 2019.
The property was long used mainly for its greenhouses.
The zoning change, which was unanimously recommended for approval Tuesday by the Common Council Zoning, Neighborhoods and Development Committee, would allow such additional uses as a small scale farm and environmental education programs.
Some of the greenhouses have been dismantled, while others are being renovated, Simon told committee members.
Simon plans to move his landscaping firm’s yard and shop to the site from 3460 W. Leeds Place. His business develops and maintains bioswales and other sustainable landscape features.
Another landscaping firm, GRG Playscapes, which makes natural outdoor play areas, is moving from the
Leeds Place property to a renovated office building and barn at the South 20th Street site, Simon said.
Also, hemp grower Cream City Wellness is leasing greenhouse space, he said. Additional space is to be leased to micro-farms.
Finally, another building — a former three-bedroom house — will be converted into offices by electronic billboard provider Direct Outdoors. The firm is relocating from Las Vegas.
The renovations so far have also included extensive landscaping improvements, which drew praise from Ald. Scott Spiker, whose district includes the site.
“It’s a transformed site,” Spiker said.