Support National Ave. Small Business During Construction

Huge street changes are coming to National Avenue in Milwaukee and we want your help to show that Bikes Mean Business! Show that Bikes Build Community!

For those that have been following, the Bike Fed advocated strongly for major changes to National Ave from 1st to 39th as part of the street reconstruction project. With the City of Milwaukee in support, and the backing of local politicians, we were successful in gaining protected bike lanes, improved sidewalk and crosswalk features, and lane reductions to make the National Ave corridor safer for not only vulnerable users, but the drivers on the street as well. National Ave is (soon to be was!) on the High Injury Network that the City has been working to improve for several years now. Slowing speeds and making a street that is for people, not just those in cars, will have a profoundly positive impact on the community and those who live, work, and play along National Ave.

As construction season is getting into full swing, we as a community can not stand by and let these small businesses that define the characteristic of the neighborhoods along the corridor struggle to survive, or worse – close shop. What will be left of the community to enjoy if that happens?

The construction is happening in three phases from 2026 – 2028. You can review the project timeline and informational website here. First up is the western edge from 27th St to 39th St. In 2027 it will be 1st-11th St and in 2028 it will be 11th – 27th St.

THE ASK

Bike Fed will be hosting several group bike rides, walks, events, pop ups, etc to bring people to support the businesses along the corridor. We want you to join us! Keep an eye on our social media and make sure to check our event calendar often!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

June 12th: Ride to Mamie’s: Blues Night

July 9th: Walking Means Business: Leaves from Jackson Park. Stroll to Dinner on National Ave

August 6th: Walking Means Business: Leaves from Story Hill. Stroll to Dinner on National Ave

MORE COMING SOON! Stay tuned!

Host an event yourself! Looking to host your own?

• Post your event here. Make sure to check the category “Bikes Mean Business”
• Find events there, too, as they get posted often.
• Use the Hashtags #bikesmeanbusiness and #bikefed in your social media posts.
• Tag @bikefed on your digital flyer on Instagram and we will share to our stories.
• Make sure to give the business a heads up if you are bringing a large crowd.
• Let them know you arrived by bike and are excited for safety improvements!

Brainstorm of Ideas

• Host a group ride that meets up for food or drinks at a small business.
• Host a walk that stops at businesses.
• Cash mob style lunch or dinner or groceries or tattoos etc.
• Like, share, follow any social media sites for the businesses.
• Give positive reviews on Google or other sites.
• Invite friends and family with you.
• Date night on National Ave.
• Not a big organizer or people person? Just go support on your own by bike, bus, or even drive (just don’t complain you can’t find parking right in front of the business and be prepared to walk a little).

List of businesses we suggest you patronize:

• Orenda Restaurant
• Vientiane Restaurant
• Bamboo Restaurant
• Thai BBQ Restaurant
• Chicken Palace
• La Chinampa
• Mamie’s
• Honeydip Donuts
• JJ Fish and Chicken

• National Foods
• Corins Community Market
• Asian International Market
• Chop Shop Barber Shop
• Silver City Tattoo
• Rebel Ink
• Hardman Financial Services
• Silver City Smoke Shop
• Kmeic Law Offices
• Sunrise Nutrition
• Missy’s Sweet Lounge

MISSING someone? Let us know!

Send an email to info@wisconsinbikefed.org with subject line “National Ave Bikes Mean Business”

Inspiration from community member and “Milwaukee Specialist” Adam Carr

Adam was one of the first people we knew we had to partner with for this campaign and to no one’s surprise he was fully onboard! He shared a story of a similar thing he did in the past. “Southside Restaurant Adventure Club”

Adam would set a date, give the restaurant a heads up he was coming, and send out postcards to invite his friends along. “Some real relationships formed at those tables,” he says, “it was also a good time!”

Bike Fed also wants to recognize the good folks at VIA working in the community to support residents and businesses in the neighborhood in so many ways. We will be partnering with them on some events, too! Find out more about them here.

Thanks and feel free to use this image for your event: