Kenosha-based Witico chooses hometown favorite, Lee Mechanical, for Historic Barden Project

Last fall Witico Development Corp. began a multi-million dollar restoration project on the iconic Barden Department Store building, that will now be known as The Historic Barden.  The project is on schedule to open in July 2020 and will be the new home to Public Craft Brewing Co. on the first floor and Upper East, a Culinary Infusion event venue, on the second floor. 

Lee is managing all of the plumbing and mechanical work in the 22,000-square-foot project that includes the 15-barrel brewery system that will nearly quadruple Public’s brewing capacity, including a full kitchen and live entertainment venue.  In the upstairs, Lee is working on the full size kitchen, restrooms, HVAC and more. The first floor will include a 1,500-square-foot bridal suite, one of the amenities included in the Upper East event rental space on the second floor.  

“At this time, more than ever, supporting local businesses matters more than ever.  Whether you’re choosing to order from a locally owned restaurant to choosing a contractor for your construction needs, choose your neighbors and Kenosha owned businesses.  We are truly in this together!  I’m extremely grateful that Witico chose locally owned, Wisconsin companies to finish this project in Downtown Kenosha,” said Bob Lee, Lee Mechanical President/CEO.