During late 2009, the Pleasant Prairie Community Development Authority purchased the former Midwest Copier Property located at 9115 26th Avenue. Redevelopment goals for the property included: alleviating flooding in the area; providing short-term, indoor storage for off-season public works equipment; and development of a small business or light industrial incubator to assist entrepreneurs with the start-up of local businesses. During 2010, the Village received word that a $725,000 grant to help relieve flooding in the area had been approved.

In June, the Village met with residents in the area of the project to gain additional feedback related to ongoing flooding in the area. Since that time, the Village has removed a portion of a paved parking lot at the site, has completed a phase II environmental assessment of the soil, and has completed a lead and asbestos inspection of the property in preparation for demolition of a portion of the building. A portion of the building will be removed to accommodate storm water improvements. In February, bids were solicited for the demolition work.

PROJECT MOVING FORWARD
Staff is now in the final stage of engineering design for storm water improvements related to the project. The Village has been working with the engineering firm, Crispell Snyder, to design a system to manage storm water issues in the area. A contract is expected to be awarded and demolition of the building is expected to begin during March and April. Demolition is expected to be complete in early May.

Construction of a swale is planned for the spring and summer months following demolition. Additional storm water infrastructure will include storm water pipes and storm sewer laterals of sufficient size to handle water volumes in the area. The storm water portion of the project is expected to be complete during 2012. Plans to improve the building for use as a small business incubator will progress as funding becomes available.