A bridge is defined as “something that is intended to reconcile or form a connection between two things”, but throughout Milwaukee’s history bridges have often supported division as opposed to connection. From the Bridge War of 1845 to the more recent construction of 1-94 , bridges have been a clear boundary between neighborhoods and cultures in the city of Milwaukee. One place that this is still evident is where Water Street passes under 1-94, and East Town meets the Third Ward.

The 1-94 underpass is a critical connector between North and South Water Street, but it is currently only a pass through. On the East side of the underpass, many people utilize the Public Market Parking lot, while the West side sits empty featuring only a pathway to the riverwalk and a few trees. As newer infrastructures are being developed, older frameworks are forgotten about. This empty space in the middle of the city among the sea of side by side buildings is a missed opportunity.

Project Interchange plans to explore the question of how design can help turn the underutilized and unwelcoming streetscape of the 1-94 underpass into a space that encourages connection. Our project includes pathways and standing art structures. The pathways will be used to invite people into the space and encourage their movement throughout it. The standing art structures will be an ever evolving and changing element featuring community art on interchangeable panels. Transforming the underpass into a positive experience for all of the city’s residents and visitors, and overcoming the bridges divide.