MILWAUKEE — Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett is throwing his support behind an ordinancethat would rename Old World Third Street to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.
Right now, the stretch between West McKinley Avenue and I-43 is named after the civil rights leader. It's the remaining length of the street, from McKinley to West Wisconsin Avenue, that supporters of the ordinance want to rename.
The ordinance is on the Public Works Committee's Wednesday agenda. The full Milwaukee Common Council reconvenes on Feb. 9.
In a statement Tuesday evening, Mayor Barrett said that “Displaying Dr. King’s name proudly on one of our most prominent streets allows us to honor his legacy in the pursuit of a more just future."
"It’s an important message to share with residents and visitors alike as they enjoy the heart of downtown Milwaukee," the mayor states.
Every single member of the Common Council is currently backing the ordinance.
