Milwaukee's 5th Aldermanic District is poised to welcome a fresh burst of socio-economic vibe with Darick Spears' Darick Books Café Complex—a bookstore, café, and multifaceted community space slated to enrich the neighborhood, as confirmed by the area's Common Council. The Council has recently given the nod to sell a city-owned property at 3953 North 76th Street, which has laid forlorn since 2011, to the entrepreneur and creative multi-hyphenate Spears, as reported by the City of Milwaukee.
With the green light for sale now illuminated, Spears' vision for a space that not only retails books but also fosters community engagement, and entrepreneurial spirit is on the verge of realization. According to a statement from the City of Milwaukee, the complex will feature a co-working space, laundromat, and gym on its first floor, while the upper echelon will be dedicated to the Darick Books Café, book and printing services. The anticipated renovations are an investment nearing $1 million, expected to also remedy the site's unwanted status as an illegal dumping ground for, more than a decade.
The elected official representing the district could hardly contain their excitement about the project, remarking "It’s hard to think of a better fit for this space and the district." Over nearly 50 proposals were sifted through before Spears' concept gained favor, signaling a transformation that feels not merely restorative but transformative for the area. Spears, who juggles roles as an author, publisher, producer, business owner, public speaker, and even a Rolling Stone monthly contributor, promises that the complex will bring with it more than 50 jobs, which includes seven full-time opportunities, as stated by the City of Milwaukee.
Expressing his elation over the projected community linchpin, the district representative thanked Spears for his financial commitment and the Department of City Development for their meticulous matchmaking of property and patron. The groundwork has been months in the making, forging a path for what many hope will be a vibrant addition to the 5th District's cultural and economic landscape. And, for those curious to dive deeper into the coming attraction, the Darick Books website remains open for exploration. In their statement, the elected official emphasized the significance of this project as a catalyst "to bring it across the finish line." Even if the ribbon-cutting is yet 18 months out, the dream of Darick Books Café Complex is very much alive and kicking, as per the City of Milwaukee.
