Wirch, Ohnstad and McGuire Issue Statement on Governor’s Funding of Innovation Center Project

Madison - State Senator Bob Wirch (D-Somers) and Reps. Tod Ohnstad (D-Kenosha) and Tip McGuire (D-Kenosha) issued the following statement regarding the announcement by Governor Tony Evers of full funding for the proposed Innovation Center on the Chrysler Engine Plant site:

“First, I want to thank the Governor for this proposal and his dedication to business and development in Kenosha.  The entire Kenosha Innovation Neighborhood project is really exciting and would be a great resource for Kenosha residents, entrepreneurs and innovators,” Wirch said.

“The auto industry was once the heart of Kenosha, so bringing the Innovation Center to the former Chrysler engine plant site is huge both practically and symbolically.  The Governor’s announcement is a big step toward making it a reality,” stated Ohnstad.

McGuire added, “While the Kenosha area has seen a lot of development and growth in the last few years, this Innovation Center and the Kenosha Innovation Neighborhood concept could make Kenosha the place to be for business, not just in Wisconsin but in the entire Midwest.”

The proposed Kenosha Innovation Neighborhood, located on the 107-acre Chrysler engine plant site, will focus on developing opportunities in education, workforce development and job training, and entrepreneurial development and will work to connect Kenosha residents with opportunities in high-growth fields. Construction is expected to begin in early 2022.