BROWN DEER, Wis. – There is a buzz in Brown Deer as the village approved signage for a multi-million dollar development.

It could send a burst of life into an old strip mall.

The project includes a nearly 130,000-square foot yet-to-be named major retailer. But that’s not all.

A makeover

What we know:

The Marketplace of Brown Deer on Brown Deer’s northeast side at Green Bay and Brown Deer roads could soon be getting a much-needed makeover.

Over the years, stores have come and gone, leaving a mostly empty space. But a multi-million dollar project is expected to change all of that.

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Renderings show the to-be-named big box store, while restaurants, retail and housing would make up the rest of the space.

On Monday, the Village Building Board approved signage for the project.

Nebraska developer Woodsonia is heading up the development.

What they’re saying:

Village manager Tyler Burkart:

“We’re trying to add some life back to that area and then some. Really an effort to try to bring back the commercial and retail business, but also trying to add some vibrancy with it with some environmental elements.”

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Village President Wanda Montgomery:

“Any new development certainly is going to add to bringing, hopefully, taxes down for the community. I think this is a work in progress, but I’m certainly, I’m here for it.”

What’s next:

If it is approved by the village board later this month, with closing in March, demolition could be late spring or early summer.

It will be developed in phases through 2028.