[4.12.2018] 84 South | West Layton Avenue and South 84th Street | Greenfield "Best Public/Private Partnership"(Milwaukee Business Journal)

One of the biggest challenges of building the $200 million 84South development in Greenfield was first assembling the land necessary to create the mixed-use development.

“We had to clear 43 parcels, including 39 home sites, an elementary school, a Baptist church and a farm field, as well as the old Steinhafels,” explained Scott Yauck, president and CEO of Cobalt Partners, developer of 84South.

Next came zoning, working through a variety of public/private development agreements, and bringing together the right mix of users. And before construction could begin, existing buildings had to be demolished.

Despite the complicated process, the project went smoothly, Yauck said, and he gives credit to city of Greenfield officials.

“The public/private approach to implement the project went well. Greenfield, the mayor and city staff were outstanding to work with. The key was they moved it along at the pace of business, which isn’t always the case in public/private agreements,” he said.

Tenants at 84South include a new Steinhafels furniture store, Fresh Thyme Farmers Market, Total Wine & More and Ross Dress for Less. Kohl’s Corp. will also open at 84South to replace a store it will close at the nearby Southridge Mall.

“The idea was first conceived in the summer of 2014. Now we’re three-and-a-half years into it and probably have $150 million of value in place, which is an aggressive schedule for a project like this, but I attribute it to the great spirit of cooperation with the municipality,” Yauck noted.

Greenfield Mayor Mike Neitzke said 84South has been transformative for the city and has encouraged additional development.

“The resurgence of enthusiasm and energy around 84South is important for the future tax base and the sustainability of the community,” he said.

And 84South isn’t done growing.

“We’re near finalizing a fitness component, which is part of the vision to bring the mix of uses beyond retail,” Yauck said.

The site also will have an Aurora Health Care surgery center, which is slated to open in August 2019.

New tenants in the smaller shops along Layton Avenue west of a Portillo’s restaurant will include FedEx, a Café Zupas, a Grate Modern Mac and Cheese, and a Mod Pizza, as well as a spa called Hand & Stone and a Men’s Hair House. It’s expected these businesses will open in late spring or early summer.

Yauck said he enjoys bringing new choices to Greenfield.

“We’ve chosen to go with brands that aren’t as prevalent, but we think we are headed in the right direction,” he said. “For instance, we have the second Portillo’s in Wisconsin, the second Total Wine; the second Grate Modern Mac and Cheese. I like that we’re able to push in that direction, which is where we’re thinking the market is headed.”