James Donnelly from The Design Office just informed me that the Parks, Energy and Environment Committee of the Milwaukee County Board voted to move a passion project forward. Today, the County formally approved our watergarden proposal for Bradford Beach.

Here's the text of Jim Donnelly's e-mail to me:

I am glad Milwaukee County wants to support architecture and design as a living entity. What the 'Watergarden' really represents is a shared process, where friends groups and community liaisons, work together with people who design architecture and are busy working meaningfully and bringing real value in our communities. I believe this is a very positive message, because it shows that architecture and design is something useful, which collaborates with all the other professions. Our ambition is to create a project for Milwaukee's lakeshore, which results from the unique characteristics of the place itself; evolving the experience of parks and public open-spaces that they remain relevant to citizens. My thanks to you, Jeff, and everyone who has been involved in process.

How am I involved, you might ask? Well, really just as a person that helped move an idea ahead. Nearly four years ago several friends were lamenting the lack of development near Bradford Beach. We thought some type of playground could help. Then, three years ago, I had coffee with Deborah Lukovic, president/CEO of Alinea Project Solutions, LLC. We brainstormed about this idea and from there Deb made it happen. No, Deb made it happen -- big time. Deb, congrats and thank you!

And thank you to the Lakefront Development Advisory Commission , Milwaukee County Parks, Jim Plaisted, and everyone along the way for embracing the idea.

Now, it's time to raise the money and really make this idea a reality. Please check out the link below.