County Supervisor Questions Southrige Mall Bus Stop Move

Southridge Mall’s ownerships decision to move a Milwaukee County Transit System bus stop slightly more than the length of football field further from the building than it is now has at least one Milwaukee County Supervisor questioning the mall’s motive.

Supervisor Michael Mayo, Sr. said Simon Property Group's decision to move the bus stop near a mall entrance to a location off Edgerton Avenue will limit senior and disabled people from gaining access to the mall.

“Instead of giving them the front door, they’re giving seniors and disabled people the back door,” said Mayo, chairman of the Transportation, Public Works and Transit Committee. “They’re saying your cars can come, but the buses can’t. Unfortunately for many people, especially the elderly, disabled and those who don’t own cars, access to the mall is limited when bus stops are not allowed in the parking lot near the entrances of the mall.”

Mayo believes the move might have other motives, as well.

“But it also makes me wonder who else they are trying to keep away,” he said. “Obviously, people with lower incomes may not be able to afford a car. Is Southridge trying to keep them away? What about the workers? How will they get to their jobs? This isn’t good for economic development.”

In a statement, mall officials said the bus stop will be relocated approximately 350 feet from the existing stop, and the move will improve vehicular and pedestrian safety as 150 buses per day currently operate from mall property.

MCTS Transit Plus service for individuals with disabilities will continue to drop off and pick up at the northeast main mall entrance, and a yellow-striped walkway will clearly designate the path from the bus stop to the mall entrance.

In addition to the bus stop move, the park and ride will be discontinued. Mall officials said there are two existing park and ride locations with three miles of the mall.

Mall management worked with MCTS and the Village of Greendale to come up with the plan, which takes effect Nov. 1 and is in line with other retail centers in the area, mall officials said.

“The recent renovation of the mall and the addition of Macy’s clearly demonstrate our strong and abiding commitment to the area for many years to come,” said Mary Mokwa, Southridge Mall general manager.  “Our first priority is our shoppers and employees, and in no way does this effort change our goals, but now 150 buses will simply operate a short distance from the current stop and help us ensure better vehicular and pedestrian safety.”