Greendale, WI

Greendale, Wisconsin, is a planned community located in Milwaukee County. It was established during the Great Depression as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal initiative to promote job creation and suburban living. The community was designed to offer affordable housing options for low-income families.

In 1935, the Resettlement Administration (later renamed the Farm Security Administration) purchased approximately 3,400 acres of land to create the Greendale project. The goal was to provide housing for displaced families affected by the economic hardships of the time. The project aimed to give these families an opportunity to own their homes and promote a sense of community.

Greendale's planning and construction were guided by a cooperative effort between architects, landscape designers, and government officials. The renowned architect, Walter Gropius, and his firm The Architects Collaborative (TAC) played a significant role in designing the community's layout and architecture. The layout utilized neighborhood units that had a mix of housing types, including single-family homes, apartments, and duplexes, to accommodate different income levels.

Construction of Greendale began in 1936, and by 1938, the first residents moved into their homes. Greendale's architecture was inspired by the English Garden City movement, emphasizing green spaces, pedestrian pathways, and a central commercial district known as "The Village." The village had the necessary amenities, including schools, a shopping center, a library, and recreational facilities, to ensure a self-sustaining community.

During World War II, Greendale's housing demand increased as more workers were needed for the nearby defense industries. This led to the construction of additional housing units, including temporary barracks for the influx of workers.

After the war, Greendale transitioned to a more permanent community, and its population continued to grow steadily. Many of the original families who settled during the Depression era remained in the community, and subsequent generations took pride in their Greendale heritage.

Greendale's architecture and planning gained recognition on both the national and international stage due to its innovative design and community-focused approach. In 1991, Greendale was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing the community's significance as a New Deal-era planned community.

Today, Greendale remains a thriving community that has preserved its original character and charm. The community's commitment to maintaining its historic architecture and preserving green spaces has made it a desirable place to live while still offering affordable housing options.

Greendale's rich history and unique design continue to attract visitors interested in learning about its legacy as one of the most well-preserved examples of a New Deal-era planned community.

Historic Greendale Village

Explore the charming and well-preserved historic village that was built during the Great Depression. Enjoy the unique architecture, shops, and restaurants.

Scout Lake Park

This beautiful park offers a peaceful retreat with a picturesque lake, walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground. It is great for outdoor activities like fishing, kayaking, or simply enjoying nature.

Southridge Mall

Shopaholics can head to Southridge Mall, a large shopping center featuring a variety of stores, including popular brands, fashion boutiques, and restaurants.

Root River Parkway

Experience the beauty of the scenic Root River Parkway with its biking and hiking trails. Walk along the river, enjoy the lush greenery, and keep an eye out for wildlife.

Coral Ridge Mall

For more shopping and entertainment options, Coral Ridge Mall is another popular choice. It offers numerous stores, a movie theater, and a variety of dining options.

Boerner Botanical Gardens

Located nearby in Hales Corners, Boerner Botanical Gardens is a 40-acre public garden featuring stunning plant displays, walking paths, tranquil ponds, and beautifully manicured gardens.

Whitnall Park

Another neighboring park, Whitnall Park, offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as golfing, hiking, bird watching, and picnicking. It is home to the Wehr Nature Center, perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Konkel Park

This local park features a splash pad, playground, sports fields, and picnic areas. It is a great spot for families to spend a fun-filled day.

Milwaukee County Parks Golf Courses

Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the well-maintained golf courses within Milwaukee County Parks, including Whitnall Golf Course and Greenfield Golf Course.

Milwaukee County Zoo

Just a short drive from Greendale, the Milwaukee County Zoo is a popular destination for animal lovers. It features over 2,000 animals and offers various exhibits, animal encounters, and educational programs.

The climate of Greendale, WI is characterized as a humid continental climate. This means that the area experiences warm to hot summers and cold winters, with distinct seasonal changes throughout the year.

Summers in Greendale tend to be warm and occasionally hot, with average highs ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (25-30 degrees Celsius). However, temperatures can occasionally reach the 90s (32-35 degrees Celsius). Humidity levels are generally moderate during this season. Thunderstorms and occasional rainfall are common during the summer months.

Winter in Greendale is cold, with average temperatures ranging from the 20s to low 30s Fahrenheit (-6 to 0 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is common throughout the winter months, with snowstorms occurring periodically. The area experiences occasional Arctic cold fronts, causing temperatures to dip below freezing. Wind chills can also make the air feel much colder.

Spring and autumn in Greendale are transitional seasons with mild temperatures. Spring can be variable, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to 60s Fahrenheit (4-15 degrees Celsius). Rainfall is common during this time. Autumn brings gradually decreasing temperatures, ranging from 60s to 50s Fahrenheit (15-20 degrees Celsius). The early part of autumn is typically drier than spring but can still see occasional rain showers.

Overall, Greendale, WI experiences four distinct seasons with significant temperature and precipitation variations throughout the year.

Greendale, Wisconsin is a charming village located in Milwaukee County. It is known for its rich history, beautiful homes, and strong sense of community. While Greendale is a relatively small village, it is divided into several unique neighborhoods that have their own distinct characteristics. Here are some of the different neighborhoods of Greendale:

The Original Village

This is the heart of Greendale and where it all started. The Original Village showcases the village's historical significance, featuring homes built in the 1930s as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal program. The neighborhood is characterized by beautiful tree-lined streets, well-maintained homes, and a strong sense of community spirit.

Stratton Village

Located west of the Original Village, Stratton Village is a neighborhood that offers a mix of architectural styles. It features a combination of original homes from the 1930s as well as newer constructions. Stratton Village is known for its proximity to schools, parks, and easy access to shopping centers.

College Park

Situated in the northern part of Greendale, College Park is a neighborhood that is home to Greendale High School and Greendale Middle School. The area is characterized by a vibrant atmosphere due to the presence of the schools. College Park offers a range of housing options, from single-family homes to townhouses and apartments.

Greendale Terrace

Located in the southeastern part of the village, Greendale Terrace is a neighborhood that offers a mix of residential and commercial properties. It is home to Southridge Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in Wisconsin. Greendale Terrace provides residents with convenient access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Village Center

As the name suggests, Village Center is the commercial hub of Greendale. It is where you'll find Greendale's locally-owned shops, restaurants, and businesses. Village Center is also home to the Greendale Historic Village, which is a living history museum that showcases the village's rich past. This neighborhood is bustling with activity, especially during community events and festivals.

Overall, Greendale's neighborhoods offer a blend of historical charm, modern amenities, and a strong sense of community. Whether you prefer a quiet residential area or a vibrant commercial center, Greendale has a neighborhood to fit your preferences.