Mammoth Springs — the historic site of the Kewpie-brand canning operation in Sussex – is being redeveloped into retail shops, offices and residential units as a part multi-million dollar construction plan by Bielinski Development of Waukesha.
The mixed-use development comprises approximately nine acres. The acreage originally included several abandoned buildings, a quarry lake and the former Bug Line railroad track, which has been retired for many years.
Bielinski Development received a $400,000 brownfields redevelopment grant from the state. Demolition and asbestos removal has been completed, and the initial building phase is scheduled to begin this summer.
Mammoth Springs Square, an idle site since 1995, will become a fundamental element to the vitality of the Sussex downtown area, said Bob Brownell of Bielinski Development.
The commercial development incorporates roughly 58,000 square feet of office, retail and restaurant space, and the residential area includes 17 units totaling nearly 38,000 square feet.
The development will include lighted pedestrian walkways and green space.
The Mammoth Springs development will incorporate several sites that have shaped the history of Sussex. As canning was once a prominent industry in the village, the Friday Canning Co. headquarters building will be renovated and integrated into the commercial center.
The former Bug Line railroad track will be converted into a bike trail that will link to a larger, regional trail and wind through the residential area and commercial center. A long-time recreational amenity for swimmers, fishermen and picnickers in Sussex, the quarry lake will remain a distinct feature of the development, serving as a natural backdrop to the townhouse condominiums.
Feb. 6, 2004 Small Business Times, Milwaukee
