The Rock owner gears up for the long haul in Franklin development

A few years ago, many residents in Franklin likely didn't even know this developer lived in the community. His rapid rise to the forefront of not only Franklin economic development, but the impact of sports in the metropolitan area landed him a "40 Under 40" award by the Business Journal this year. The same publication also jokingly stated on the cover of one of their weekly publications, "Who is this guy?"

This guy, Mike Zimmerman, is the owner of Franklin's revitalized ski hill, which has been transformed from a very seasonal location to one that is used year-round for a variety of sports and recreational activities. He also is known by some in Franklin for his strong passion to get things done in what they argue might be a tad too fast for their liking. Zimmerman, however, has no regrets for his energetic personality and took some time to answer a few questions.

The main topic and focus was the 76th/Rawson/Loomis commercial district, which not only includes The Rock but now several additional properties that Zimmerman has purchased. In total, Zimmerman owns or operates roughly 173 acres in that area, and he says there are a few other pending deals that could raise the number even higher. Recent acquisitions are properties across from The Rock - one across Rawson Avenue along Loomis Road (25 acres) and the other directly across from The Rock between Crystal Ridge and Loomis Roads (roughly 8 acres).

"I would say we are the biggest player in Franklin's plans for the retail project they have commissioned Graef to study," said Zimmerman.

When asked about the future for these new properties, Zimmerman said he planned to expand upon the existing Stonehedge estate subdivision with 25 additional estate homes next to it in a partnership with Greg Marso of Marso Construction. However, those plans might have changed.

"Alternatively, and over the last 30 days, we have been approached by the city with concepts that could include the development of that area as a "City Center", and Zimmerman further commented they're now looking at all options.

With the city reaching out, I asked Zimmerman how has his relationship with the city been since his stadium financing proposal was rejected by the Common Council early in 2014.

"I have had great conversations with 4 of the 6 common council members and the city attorney. These folks have all reached out to me and have been encouraging me to revisit some of my earlier proposals."

Since the stadium financing plan failed to move forward in Franklin, Zimmerman has since announced the project would happen in Oak Creek. While there hasn't been much news on the project since the announcement, he says that doesn't mean anything has changed.

"The current plan is continue with Oak Creek. We have a few site options in Oak Creek and are currently in negotiations with land owners. The City has been great but until we have land locked up, there is not much either party can do."

Going back to his key role in the future of economic development for the 76th & Rawson area, I asked him how he views the current situation for that commercial district, and what his vision could be for the district.

"I would say (the area is) progressing, albeit at a snails pace. The 76th, Rawson and Loomis area has great potential, but it requires some serious infrastructure. If Franklin wants a City Center this is the area and not because I say that, its because the experts have done their studies on it," said Zimmerman. "I'm not ready to share my complete vision yet as its still "under construction". I have been out meeting with other potential partners that could help anchor the development and conversations have been overwhelmingly positive. In the end, this thing will only get done if we can recruit the right partners."

Zimmerman closed his remarks with a candid perspective on Franklin's political landscape. "The other (and most important) part of the formula is leadership. I will do something in the area but I want to do it with a city government that has a shared vision, a get it done culture, and wants to truly partner. Maybe it's with this Common Council or maybe its the next group. We will see...."