U.S. Bank Center

Standing tall and proud along the shores of Lake Michigan, the U.S. Bank Center is an iconic fixture of Milwaukee's skyline. As the tallest building in Wisconsin, this 601-foot-tall skyscraper is not just a marvel of modern engineering but also a testament to the city's vibrant history and dynamic growth.

History of the U.S. Bank Center

The story of the U.S. Bank Center began in the late 1960s when the First Wisconsin National Bank announced plans to construct a new headquarters. The project was ambitious from the start, with the bank officials envisioning a towering structure that would dominate the Milwaukee skyline. The final design, unveiled in 1971, called for a 42-story skyscraper that would cover an entire city block. The building was designed by the renowned architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, with Bruce Graham and James DeStefano leading the design efforts, and Fazlur Rahman Khan providing the structural engineering expertise.

Construction of the building commenced with much anticipation and was topped off on August 29, 1972, with a grand ceremony attended by city and state officials. However, the construction phase was not without its tragedies. Near the end of the construction in 1973, two fatal accidents occurred, casting a shadow over the project's completion. Despite these setbacks, the building was officially opened on October 6, 1973, and quickly became a central hub for business in Milwaukee.

Architectural Marvel

The U.S. Bank Center is a striking example of modernist architecture, characterized by its clean lines and functional design. The building's exterior is clad in white aluminum and glass, giving it a sleek and contemporary look. One of the most distinctive features of the building is its use of a belt truss system, which not only provides structural support but also adds to the building's aesthetic appeal. The three diagonal belt trusses create a dramatic contrast with the vertical facade, making the U.S. Bank Center a standout structure in the city.

The building's design has remained largely unchanged since its completion, although it has undergone some modifications over the years. Notably, in the early 2000s, the original aluminum elements at the top of the building were replaced with signs reflecting the merger with U.S. Bancorp. These signs were later updated to energy-saving LED signs in 2013, ensuring that the building remains both functional and visually appealing.

Corporate Hub

Over the years, the U.S. Bank Center has been home to several major corporations. Initially, it served as the headquarters for First Wisconsin National Bank, which later became Firstar Corporation and eventually U.S. Bancorp. Today, the building houses the regional headquarters for U.S. Bank and IBM, as well as the main headquarters for Baird, Foley & Lardner, and Sensient Technologies. This diverse mix of tenants reflects the building's importance as a center of business and commerce in Milwaukee.

Peregrine Falcons

In addition to its corporate significance, the U.S. Bank Center also plays a unique role in wildlife conservation. In 1987, a hacking box was installed on the 41st floor as part of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources' Peregrine Falcon Recovery Plan. This initiative aimed to reintroduce peregrine falcons to Wisconsin, where their population had been decimated by the widespread use of DDT. The location atop the skyscraper provided an ideal environment for the birds, free from natural predators and disease. Since the program's inception, 67 falcons have fledged from the hacking box, marking a significant success in the conservation efforts.

Observation Deck

For visitors to Milwaukee, the U.S. Bank Center offers a unique vantage point from its observation deck on the 41st floor. Initially open to the public during the New Year's Eve event known as Firstar Eve, the observation deck was closed in 1991 due to concerns from the law firm Foley & Lardner. However, it was reopened to the public in 2011 during the first Doors Open Milwaukee event and has remained accessible during subsequent events. From this lofty perch, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city and Lake Michigan, making it a must-visit spot for anyone looking to experience Milwaukee from a new perspective.

Lighted Messages and Events

The U.S. Bank Center is not just a static landmark; it actively participates in the life of the city. The building's windows are sometimes used to display lighted messages during significant events in Milwaukee. For instance, during HarleyFest in 2003, the letters HD were illuminated in honor of Harley Davidson's 100th anniversary. Similarly, the letters UWM were displayed in 2005 to celebrate the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee's basketball team's success. The building's trusses are also lit in various colors to mark special occasions, such as green and yellow for the Green Bay Packers during their championship runs.

In conclusion, the U.S. Bank Center is more than just a skyscraper; it is a symbol of Milwaukee's growth, resilience, and community spirit. Whether you are a business professional, a history enthusiast, or a casual visitor, this towering structure offers something for everyone. Its rich history, architectural significance, and role in the city's life make it an unmissable landmark in Milwaukee.