Burgers, custard and beach volleyball – consider it three more reasons to head to Grant Park this summer.
Milwaukee County has agreed to a long-term contract with a partner that will bring beach volleyball to Grant Park this summer and beyond – and is closing in on a deal that will breathe new life into the concession space at the beach.
First, information on the concessionaire.
Ferch’s Beachside – owned by the same family behind Ferch’s Malt Shoppe & Grille in historic downtown Greendale – is planning to open early this summer and offer burgers, custard, beer and more. The owners are also doing extensive remodeling to the space, which hasn’t been used in more than five years.
On Tuesday, the county’s Parks, Energy & Environment Committee unanimously recommended approval of a long-term lease with Ferch’s, and the full Milwaukee County Board is expected to take up the issue at its April 24 meeting.
I spoke to Dale Ferchoff today, and he is excited to come to South Milwaukee.
Just feet away from the concession space, volleyball courts are already going up.
The county has already contracted with Chicago-based Cities and Sports to run the volleyball activities at the beach, which will include two-, four- and six-person men’s, women’s and co-ed leagues starting June 1. As many as 18 courts are planned, and they’ll be available for general public use when not used by leagues or tournaments.
- Find more details on the volleyball here. League registration is now open, currently for teams looking to play on Thursdays and Sundays.
- And here is more information on Ferch’s.
I want to thank Milwaukee County Supervisor Patricia Jursik, County Executive Chris Abele, the Parks Department and other county officials for their work in bringing these additions to the beach, and for their support of the park overall. I’m proud to stand behind their efforts.
These are game-changing initiatives that will not only bring an energy to Grant Park not seen in years, but they will also lift our entire city. I can’t wait.
Of course, the beach additions are just two of the exciting things happening at Grant Park this summer and beyond. Check out my previous post for more on those.
Efforts include the repaving the entire length of the Oak Leaf Trail in the park starting this year, and the Traveling Beer Garden, presented by Sprecher Brewing and Sprecher’s Restaurant and Pub, which is appearing at Grant Park’s Brown Pavilion (Picnic Area 5-6) June 16-28. There have also been environmental investments made, including a new rain garden near the beach, new trees throughout the park and bluff stabilization work.
Look for more details on these exciting developments soon, and spread the word!
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