On November 7, 2024, “The Domes Reimagined” plan was unanimously approved by the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors, providing $30 million in funding in support of the plan as part of a public-private campaign. The Domes Reimagined plan was developed by Friends of the Domes, in partnership with Milwaukee County Parks and Madison-based real estate developer The Alexander Company. The county's funding is contingent on the group achieving certain milestones that will be determined over the course of the next few months.

Known locally as simply “the Domes,” these iconic landmarks have been a beloved part of Milwaukee’s skyline and a center of community life for more than 50 years. However, in 2016 the National Trust for Historic Preservation included the Domes on our annual list of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places after the facility was temporarily closed due to falling concrete, and since that time, the fate of the Domes has been in limbo. With the Milwaukee Preservation Alliance, the National Trust has continued to provide advocacy support and technical assistance to County leaders as options for the Domes’ future were considered.

In September 2024, the Friends of the Domes unveiled “The Domes Reimagined,” an exciting new plan that would include a full rehabilitation of all three Domes using historic tax credits, the addition of new visitor amenities and enhanced accessibility, and additional nature-based programming and education.

The National Trust has advocated for years in support of a preservation solution for the Domes. We applaud this outcome and thank all partners, advocates, and stakeholders who have worked for so many years to ensure the future of these Midcentury marvels!