The Future of Mitchell Park

The Future of Mitchell Park

The Domes of the Mitchell Park Conservatory have been a Milwaukee landmark for generations, but we have reached an inflection point. The cost to operate and maintain the facility continues to rise and deferred maintenance projects are piling up. We have a building that has outlived its expected lifespan and financial path that is no longer viable. Changes are needed. Please provide input on the future of Mitchell Park by following this link.

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Summary of repair work accomplished

The Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory (The Domes) has had protective stainless steel mesh installed in all 3 Domes since 2016 in order to reduce the risk of concrete endangering the visitors and staff at the Domes. It is necessary to regularly inspect and repair the protective steel mesh. Work has taken place to evaluate not only the mesh but also all observable concrete and glazing surfaces. It was necessary for the project to include any and all equipment necessary for work and access, efforts to prepare each Domes site for leveling a lift, and related restoration to pre-inspection conditions. In addition to the final report documentation, corrective actions, as necessary, were completed to the mesh barrier. As a public facility, consideration was given to public information and coordination of events.

2021 scope of work: The scope of work included the evaluation of the mesh and all observable concrete and glazing surfaces. It was necessary for the project to include any and all equipment necessary for work and access, efforts to prepare each Domes site for leveling a lift, and related restoration to pre-inspection conditions. In addition to the final report documentation, corrective actions were completed for the mesh barrier, and inspection and repairs took place concurrently.

2022: Assessment in progress. Anticipate three months starting with the Arid dome and ending with the Show dome in March. This year’s work is a continuation of the 2021 scope above and also includes the construction of a glazing mockup that will be installed in the Arid Dome to test the potential future usage of different materials. This will likely take place in the fall due to material impacts from supply chain demand.