Franklin Residents Eagerly Anticipate Major Progress in Costco Project Plans

Residents of Franklin are eagerly anticipating significant developments concerning the new Costco project. The Franklin Common Council recently approved plans for a Costco store at the intersection of Drexel Avenue and 27th Street. This store will represent the first Costco location in Milwaukee County.

Details of the Costco Project in Franklin

The approved Costco plans encompass a large retail building measuring 162,000 square feet. In addition, the project will include a fueling station equipped with 12 pumps, providing the capacity for 24 cars to refuel simultaneously.

Key Approvals Granted

• The council adopted an ordinance to amend the Unified Development Ordinance, allowing commercial use of over 20,000 square feet.
• A resolution was passed to impose conditions on the conditional use permit for the fueling station.
• An ordinance was created to establish a planned development overlay, permitting modifications related to building materials and lighting.

These approvals followed a thorough review by the city’s plan commission on October 23. They represent the final steps needed from the council before the project can officially move forward.

Next Steps for Construction

Marion Ecks, the senior planner for Franklin, is now tasked with preparing necessary documents for the mayor’s signature. This process will activate the approved ordinances and resolution. Ecks is also reviewing Costco’s landscaping plan to ensure it aligns with the approved site layout.

Once these requirements are met, Costco will be able to apply for building permits to commence construction. The project has an “aggressive timeline,” according to Franklin Mayor John Nelson. He emphasized the need for prompt reviews, as delays could hinder progress.

Projected Timeline for Construction

Stephen Cross, Costco’s director of real estate development, stated that detailed building plans are currently underway. The objective is to navigate the permit process and close by March 2024. Construction is expected to start by late spring or early summer.

Cross mentioned that the construction phase is estimated to consist of 60 days for site work and grading, followed by approximately 130 days to complete the building structure. The efficiency of this timeline is anticipated to satisfy the demand from local residents.

This new Costco is set to join existing locations in Grafton, Menomonee Falls, Pewaukee, New Berlin, and Pleasant Prairie, marking a notable expansion in southeastern Wisconsin. Plans for another Costco in Oconomowoc are also in the works.

Residents are optimistic as they await the positive impact of the Costco project on their community.