It was announced today that Lakefront Brewery has secured an option to purchase a 9.3-acre plot of land in the Menomonee Valley for a second production facility.

The site, located at 841 Canal St., was previously intended for an expansion of the Allen Edmonds Shoe Company. Lakefront Brewery needs the second facility (in addition to their flagship location at 1872 N. Commerse St.) to expand their production and distribution, possibly bringing up to 150 new jobs to the state.

"We have considered a number of locations in the metropolitan area, but for now we would like to see if we can make this site in the Menomonee Valley fit our needs," said Lakefront Brewery president Russ Klisch. "There are a lot of challenges, but in the past, the City and the State have demonstrated an ability and willingness to help overcome the challenges of the Valley and, for that reason, we are dedicated to this effort to remain in the City of Milwaukee."