Mar. 2, 2025 7:30p
(WGTD)---The financing package is coming together for a restaurant and tap room to open in Belle City Square, the mixed-use redevelopment project on the site of the former Horlick Malted Milk factory on Racine's north side.
The Racine City Council this week is expected to authorize the city's Development Department to apply for a $250,000 grant from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. on behalf of Hop Heads Hospitality & Events. The family-owned business presently operates the Franksville Craft Beer Garden.
According to city documents, the grant, if approved, would be applied toward the estimated $2.1 million cost of renovating one of the historic buildings on the site, leaving intact exposed brick, original windows and steel beams and the building's three-story height.
Belle City Square already includes residences, a coffee shop and incubator spaces for businesses and industry.
The restaurant's financing package is expected to include contributions from J. Jeffers, the Belle City Square developer; the Racine County Economic Development Corp; a commercial lender and equity from Hop Heads.
If all goes as planned, the place will open next year.
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