Summerfest Staying Put

The Milwaukee common council has approved a 10-year lease extension for the organizers of the region’s annual Summerfest at a 75-acre park.

Milwaukee World Festival, which presents the lakeside concerts, has apparently been looking into improvements at the site, and the vote will allow the project to come to fruition and provide the promoter with the chance to recoup its investment, according to the Milwaukee Business Journal.

“We are very pleased to have reached a mutually beneficial lease extension that will ensure the future of Summerfest at Henry Maier Festival Park through 2030,” Milwaukee Festival board chair Dan Minahan told the paper. “This agreement sets the foundation for the continued evolution and the future legacy of one of our community’s most unique and coveted assets for years to come.”

Updates being floated for the park reportedly include an indoor music venue, new food and beverage buildings and stage improvements, which could exceed $20 million.

The lease agreement must still be approved by Milwaukee Mayor Tom Garrett before taking effect.