News Summary
Ascension Wisconsin is no longer in-network for UnitedHealthcare customers, impacting healthcare access for many. However, a new Microsoft data center proposal in Caledonia offers economic growth alongside enhancements in the Milwaukee sports scene. Additionally, real estate movements highlight significant property sales and transportation initiatives revive interurban rail connections, signaling a transformative period in Southeastern Wisconsin’s infrastructure and economy.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Ascension Wisconsin is now out of network for UnitedHealthcare customers after the deadline for a contract agreement expired, impacting many patients who rely on the healthcare services provided by Ascension. This decision means that clients who use UnitedHealthcare for their insurance may face higher out-of-pocket costs for medical services received from Ascension facilities.
In a positive development for local infrastructure, plans for a Microsoft data center in Caledonia have cleared an initial hurdle, indicating progress in the tech giant’s investment in the area. This data center is expected to bring economic benefits and job opportunities to the region while also supporting the increasing demand for data storage and processing services.
In entertainment news, the Milwaukee Bucks are set to add a premium club for courtside ticket holders, enhancing the game day experience for fans willing to invest in high-end seating options. This addition aims to attract more affluent attendees and create a more exclusive atmosphere within the arena.
Real Estate Developments
In real estate news, former CEO of Johnson Controls, George Oliver, recently sold his condominium at the University Club Tower in downtown Milwaukee for $2.2 million. The two-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom condo, constructed in 2007, had an assessed value of $2,064,900. Oliver, who was CEO from 2017 until March 2025, played a significant role in the company’s merger with Tyco and remained involved as a non-executive chairman until July 31, and will serve as an advisor until December 31, 2025.
The new owner of the condominium, Harris Turer, is the CEO of the Milwaukee Admirals and a minority owner of the Milwaukee Brewers, highlighting his significant presence in the Milwaukee sports community.
Transportation Initiatives
Interest is resurfacing in the reconstruction of the Milwaukee-Racine-Kenosha interurban rail transit, which originally operated from 1897 to 1947. The proposed new system, named MARK, aims to connect Milwaukee with Union Station in Chicago and is projected to be operational by 2029. The Milwaukee area route would feature stops from downtown Milwaukee to Cudahy, Oak Creek, Racine, and Kenosha before reaching Chicago, enhancing regional connectivity and public transit options.
Additionally, Union Pacific is plotting new freight transportation service across America, which may complement the MARK project, promoting economic growth and logistical efficiency in the region.
New Developments in Oconomowoc
In Oconomowoc, Cobalt Partners, a Milwaukee-based developer, is exploring a 210-acre mixed-use development in the Pabst Farms area, which spans both the City of Oconomowoc and the Village of Summit. This area has been undergoing development for over two decades, with around 1,000 acres already developed for housing, retail, and industrial purposes.
Recent developments in the Pabst Farms area include a new Fleet Farm store and the Pabst 59 mixed-use complex, which features 330,000 square feet of industrial space and apartments. Cobalt’s proposed project would be situated just east of Pabst 59, potentially further diversifying the region’s offerings and residential options.
As these various developments unfold, they are set to reshape the economic landscape of Southeastern Wisconsin, highlighting the region’s growth and the evolving needs of its communities.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Transformations in Milwaukee’s Restaurant Scene
Jeff Blonski Appointed CFO of Johnson Financial Group
Former Prenatal Care Owner Convicted of Fraud in Wisconsin
Man Dies in Custody at Milwaukee County Jail
Milwaukee Launches $2 Million Workforce Initiative for Youth
Challenges Loom Over the Construction Industry
Forbes Highlights Milwaukee’s Top Employers
Seattle’s Healthcare Landscape Transformed by High-Rise Developments
Indian-Origin Doctor Faces Multiple Charges of Medical Fraud
Indian-Origin Doctor Charged with Medical Fraud in New Jersey
Additional Resources
- BizTimes: Former Johnson Controls CEO sells downtown condo
- Wikipedia: Milwaukee
- BizTimes: How to establish passenger rail service
- Google Search: Milwaukee passenger rail service
- BizTimes: Oconomowoc Summit taps Milwaukee developer
- Google Scholar: Milwaukee real estate developments
- BizTimes: Editor talks on Ascension healthcare dispute
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Healthcare
- BizTimes: Rethinking office design in 2025
- Google News: Milwaukee office design
Author: STAFF HERE MILWAUKEE WRITER
MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER The MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMilwaukee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Summerfest, Milwaukee Film Festival, and the Milwaukee Boat Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Visit Milwaukee, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and brewing that power the local economy such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Wisconsin's dynamic landscape.
