Summerfest announced today its commencement on a two-year, $25 million redevelopment project that will update stages, restaurants, walkways, the box office, the entire South Gate, restrooms, beer stands and other features on the south end of the Henry Maier Festival Park.

John Boler, vice president sales and marketing for Summerfest, says demolition is the first step. Summerfest President and CEO Don Smiley, donning a guitar sledgehammer, initiated the work today at noon.

The south end project is the largest redevelopment on the grounds in the 43-year history of the company. 

Phase one of the construction process will be completed by Summerfest 2011.  Phase two will commence after the 2011 festival season with the entire project scheduled to be completed in time for the 45th Anniversary of Summerfest in 2012.