Challenge

Catalyst Construction took on a technically demanding site, a long-vacant industrial parcel perched on a bluff overlooking the Milwaukee River. Structural challenges included pile driving and shifting foundations to stabilize the slope and support a new Riverwalk connection. Financing was complex: 79 total units, 60 designated affordable (≤ 60% AMI), including 16 tailored for individuals with disabilities. Rapid construction price inflation, neighborhood resistance to affordable housing, and strict design and zoning revisions complicated the delivery. Additionally, opposing community concerns required proactive footprint repositioning to preserve visual harmony with adjacent high-end condos.

Solution

Catalyst Construction, acting as general contractor, initiated a phased delivery plan grounded in engineering-first sequencing. We coordinated with Continuum Architects to redesign the building footprint and ground-level amenities to soften visual impact, preserve sight lines, and accommodate public input. Structural reinforcement strategies, including pile foundations and riverbank stabilization, were partnered with public realm improvements like riverwalk extension, supported by TIF funding. Financing was structured through Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, grants, and Federal Home Loan Bank support to tackle the gap left by rising material costs. Throughout, our non-self-perform model delivered controlled competitive bidding, transparent trade partner selection, and focused on equitable outcomes (including requirements for SBE/MBE participation and accessible units).

Impact

• Delivered 79 new apartments, of which 60 units are affordable (≤ 60% AMI), including 16 units compliant with disability accessibility needs, integrating inclusivity and housing equity.

• Seamlessly extended the Milwaukee RiverWalk, fostering public access to waterfront amenity and linking community to natural corridor.
• Reclaimed an underutilized industrial site into an architecturally integrated riverfront structure, raising the bar for mixed-income development in one of Milwaukee’s most expensive neighborhoods.
• Delivered design coherence, no visual distinction between affordable and market-rate units, promoting dignity, equity, and durability across all price levels.
• Served as one of Daily Reporter’s “Top Projects of 2024”, recognized for inclusive design, riverfront revitalization, and technical uplift.