City Officials Share Excitement for Aldi Project as Hawk Demolition Progresses

Posted on: February 17, 2024

Hawk Bowl Demolition for Aldi

The City of Whitewater is delighted to announce the commencement of a pivotal development project, following the recent demolition start at the site of the former Hawk Bowl and Hawk Bowl Apartments. This marks a significant advancement in the city’s growth, with the construction of a new ALDI grocery store already receiving site plan approval.

The ALDI store, set to be located at 1380 and 1398 West Main St. on the city’s west side, will occupy a 20,000- square-foot area. This project, managed by Pinnacle Engineering Group on behalf of ALDI, not only introduces a much-needed grocery option for residents but also signifies a broader development initiative. The project includes a pad ready for development adjacent to the new ALDI and adjacent to Culver’s, effectively transforming the ALDI development into a dual-project venture for the community.

City Manager, John Weidl, shared his excitement about the project’s progress: “The approval of the ALDI site plan is a major milestone for Whitewater. We are not only looking forward to the benefits the ALDI store will bring but are also thrilled about the additional development opportunities this project will unlock. We are particularly excited about the additional pad ready site for development between the new ALDI and Culver’s. This means our community can look forward to not just one, but two new projects that will drive economic growth and vitality in the city.” Council President Neil Hicks shares similar excitement, “Great collaboration has brought great results to the residents in and around the City of Whitewater. Whether it’s good jobs, good food
or a sense of community belonging, this is a great step forward for our city.” From CDA Chair* Patrick Singer: “The ALDI project is a clear signal of progress. It shows we’re not just planning for a better Whitewater; we’re actively building it, starting with essential services like this grocery store.”

With the project’s value estimated between $3.2 and $3.5 million, it is expected to generate substantial tax revenue for the city, ranging between $700,000 and $1.1 million over the next 15 years. Moreover, this development is particularly significant as it addresses Whitewater’s designation by the USDA as a food desert, promising enhanced access to fresh and affordable food.

The City of Whitewater extends our sincere thanks to everyone who played a pivotal role in making this transformative project possible. Our gratitude goes to the Whitewater Community Development Authority (CDA) and the Whitewater Common Council for their unwavering support and dedication to the city’s growth. A special acknowledgment is due to DLK Enterprises for their continued commitment and partnership with the city, which has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life. Additionally, we pay tribute to the late Council President Jim Allen, whose tireless advocacy for a grocery store during his tenure on both the CDA and Common Council has been a driving force behind this achievement. His dedication to Whitewater’s welfare has laid the groundwork for this and many other community enhancements.

As Whitewater moves forward with these promising developments, city officials remain committed to ensuring that all aspects of the project align with the city’s strategic goals and community needs.