Former Target store could get new use
General Capital seeks change to light industrial
A former Target store on Milwaukee’s far northwest side could become the latest in a series of vacant big-box stores converted to industrial use in that area.
General Capital Group LLP wants the Milwaukee Common Council to rezone the 118,500-square-foot building, 8501 W. Brown Deer Road, from retail to light industrial, according to a new proposal. The proposal is sponsored by Ald. Chantia Lewis, whose district includes the site.
“While it is premature to comment on a tenant, we like the continuing strength of the northwest side for industrial and manufacturing,” said Linda Gorens-Levey, a General Capital partner. “We have worked closely with the alderwoman and appreciate her support.”
This marks the second time General Capital has pursued an industrial use at the former Target. A similar effort last year lapsed in October after the firm was unable to land a prospective tenant.
Other nearby former retail buildings have been converted to industrial use.
A General Capital affiliate in February bought a 138,000-square-foot former Sam’s Club, 7701 W. Calumet Road, for just under $3 million. General Capital is converting the former store to light industrial space for Sellars Absorbent Materials Inc.
The former Wal-Mart store at 8700 N. Servite Drive is headquarters for auto transmission rebuilder ETE Reman Inc., and the former American TV & Appliance store at 6700 W. Brown Deer Road is a facility for chemical packager and distributor Pak Technologies Inc.
Northridge Mall, north of W. Brown Deer Road and west of N. 76th St., closed in 2003, with several nearby chain stores closing since then.
However, the neighborhood’s light industrial areas, such as Bradley Woods Business Park, continue to attract businesses.
Meanwhile, Lewis, who was elected to the council last year, has announced plans for a neighborhood meeting to discuss plans to revive underused properties on W. Brown Deer Road and N. 76th St. Those plans include ideas from a recent community design workshop. That meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. Wednesday at Vincent High School, 7501 N. Granville Road.