Roc Ventures Seeking Extra $5 Million for Ballpark Commons

Franklin’s (WI) Ballpark Commons mixed-use development is seeking another $5.2 million in city financing help — beyond $22.5 million already approved. Read more here.

Ballpark Commons Ballpark to Feature Beer Garden, Possible Giant Climbable Milk Carton

The baseball stadium under construction in Franklin (WI) for the coming Milwaukee Milkmen (Independent Professional, American Association) will offer more than a seat to watch the team play. Beyond the game, it will have a beer garden, lawn games, a kids play area possibly with an oversized, climbable milk carton, and a burger and shake joint conceived by the former operators of AJ Bombers.  Read more and view photo here.  (Subscription required.)

Council Approves Changes to Ballpark Commons Plan

Despite objections from citizens, the Franklin (WI) common council approved a series of amendments, mostly on 4-1 votes, to the Ballpark Commons plan that will include allowing additional housing for senior citizens and athletes.  Read more here.

Ballpark Commons Will Include Senior Memory Care Housing

Apartments for older people at Franklin’s future Ballpark Commons mixed-use project will include memory care housing, according to newly released plans. The development’s senior housing will feature a three-story building on 6 acres.  Read more here about Ballpark Commons project.

Zimmerman Breaks Ground on Ballpark, Naming Rights Coming Soon

Mike Zimmerman broke ground Thursday on a new minor-league baseball stadium in Franklin (WI) and hopes to announce a naming rights sponsor within about two months.  Read more here.  (Subscription required.)  Read more and watch news report here.

10 Possible Names Announced for New Ballpark Commons Franchise

The ownership of the new American Association (Independent Professional) team that will take up residence at the developing Ballpark Commons in Franklin (WI) has announced 10 possible farmed-themed names for the franchise, including Crop Dusters, Cheesers, Farmhands, Haymakers, Broilers, Barn Owls, Cow Tippers, Bovines, Milk Men, and War Pigs.  Vote for your favorite here.

Aviators Get New Ownership

Milwaukee (WI)-based MKE Sports and Entertainment has sold the Lafayette Aviators (Summer Collegiate, Prospect League) to a trio of Purdue graduates, including Bill Davidson, CEO of National Sports Services, Brent Gutwein, co-founder of Granite Student Living, and Stuart Gutwein, a Lafayette attorney.  Read more here.