Milwaukee Mayor Johnson Leads $17 Million Cruise Dock Project for Tourism Boost

Construction commenced for the new South Shore Cruise Dock on September 4, 2025, marking an important milestone for Milwaukee’s expansion in cruise tourism. This significant infrastructure project, backed by various state and local officials, including Mayor Cavalier Johnson, aims to position Milwaukee as a premier cruise port. At the groundbreaking ceremony, excitement was palpable among officials and stakeholders, reflecting the long-awaited realization of this project.

Located at 2320 S. Lincoln Memorial Drive, the $17 million South Shore Cruise Dock will be Milwaukee's third designated dock. Mayor Johnson highlighted the strategic importance of the dock, noting how it will bolster the city's status within the Great Lakes region and contribute substantially to the state’s tourism and economic landscape. The dock aims to handle Seawaymax vessels, which are among the largest ships that traverse the Great Lakes.

The project faced financial challenges, but the collaborative efforts between the city and state ensured its fruition. Mayor Johnson committed $5 million from the city’s budget, supplemented by additional funds from Wisconsin's Capital Tourism Grant and Harbor Assistance Program. Together, they contributed a total of $8.5 million, highlighting the dock’s critical role in the region’s economic development strategy.

Port Milwaukee Director Jackie Carter emphasized the project’s complexity, underlining the extensive planning and coordination required. The new dock is not only expected to elevate Milwaukee's appeal but also provide over 200 local jobs and generate substantial additional revenue. It will further serve as a gateway for thousands of passengers, who contribute significantly to the local economy through hospitality and tourism.

Peggy Williams-Smith, President and CEO of VISIT Milwaukee, reinforced the projected economic impact, stating that cruise passengers generated approximately $2.5 million in local economic activity in 2025. This figure is anticipated to rise to $3.5 million by 2026, thanks to the new dock. These benefits align with Milwaukee's ambitions to capture a larger share of the booming Great Lakes cruise sector and reflect the growing demand for the city as a cruise destination.

Furthermore, the dock’s strategic location is set to enhance the passenger experience significantly. Currently, Milwaukee docks its cruise ships within commercial ports, a situation described by officials as less than ideal for welcoming visitors. The new facility promises a more picturesque and welcoming arrival point, boosting Milwaukee’s image among tourists globally.

Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic expressed optimism over the dock’s potential to stimulate the local economy by bringing new visitors to the city’s Bay View neighborhood and beyond. The community members expect an influx of tourists, benefiting local businesses and promoting Milwaukee’s rich cultural and historical heritage.

As construction progresses, expectations are high that the South Shore Cruise Dock will begin operations by mid-2026, just in time for the peak cruising season. The initiative aligns with Milwaukee's broader goals of waterfront revitalization and economic growth, promising a new era of increased maritime activity and tourism influx. The dock underscores Milwaukee’s commitment to enhancing its maritime infrastructure, ensuring it remains competitive in the Great Lakes cruise market while boosting its local economy and global stature.