jcpconstrucstg, Author at JCP Construction

From Health Crisis to Community Triumph: Lead Remediation Project

JCP Construction Helps MPS Restore Peace of Mind

This summer, JCP Construction partnered with Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) to complete a comprehensive lead-remediation program across the district’s first set of pre-1950 elementary school buildings. After two and a half months of meticulous work and multi-stage inspections, hundreds of students and staff returned on September 2 to safe, healthy learning environments.

“We are proud to have partnered with MPS to complete this critical project quickly and effectively,” said James Phelps, president of JCP Construction. “Our team worked diligently, maintaining high standards to ensure the remediation process was thorough in order to deliver a healthy and safe environment for the entire school community.”

Why this project mattered

Many of MPS’s oldest school buildings are rich in history—and required careful, contained removal of legacy lead-based materials. JCP Construction mobilized one of the largest teams in its history and followed rigorous protocols to eliminate risk and restore confidence before the first bell of the new academic year.

How we got it done

Start date: June 14, 2025
Completion: In time for the September 2, 2025 school start
Buildings: 42 schools, encompassing more than 35 million square feet of wall space, of which approximately 7 million square feet required lead-safe remediation.

Extensive testing and verification of the contained removal of lead-based materials in 36 school buildings.

Team: 145 JCP employees working with 22 subcontractors, 700 painters, 670 movers, 440 cleaners, and 430 certified Lead Safe Removers (LSRs). At the project’s peak, 865 professionals were engaged in remediation, with as many as 245 working at a single school in one day.
Verification: Multi-stage inspections confirming compliance with strict state and federal environmental safety standards

Scope of work at a glance

Extensive testing and verified, contained removal of lead-based materials
Sequenced, room-by-room execution to reduce disruption and maintain safety
Third-party testing and final clearances to certify readiness for occupancy

“At the end of the day we are builders with purpose, supported by an adaptable, resourceful team and an unmatched dedication to the job site,” adds Jalin Phelps, vice president of field operations. “With us, MPS gained a partner who is passionate about safety, responsibility, and long-term success.”

The project reflects JCP Construction’s commitment to deliver critical work on tight timelines without compromising quality or safety. It also underscores how the right partner can help school leaders protect students and staff while preserving the legacy of Milwaukee’s neighborhood schools.

Thinking about facility upgrades or environmental remediation?

JCP Construction brings proven processes, trusted partners, and an unwavering focus on safety and schedule. Contact us to discuss your next project.

The Bindery

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The Bindery

Location: Milwaukee, WI

Project Owner: Zachary Lifton

Project Sector: Nonprofit

Size: 8,475/Sqf

Architect: Galbraith Carnahan Architects

JCP Construction served as the General Contractor for The Bindery, an award-winning historic preservation and adaptive reuse project located at 347 E. Ward Street in Milwaukee’s Bay View neighborhood. Working closely with Galbraith Carnahan Architects, JCP led the transformation of the city’s last traditional book bindery — originally a windowless industrial space last renovated in 1973 — into a vibrant 8,475-square-foot hub for writers, typographers, and printmakers.

The project preserved the building’s historic character while introducing modern functionality, breathing new life into the space as a dynamic coworking and arts center. By honoring the building’s legacy and incorporating its original equipment, The Bindery now serves as a creative anchor for the community, blending craftsmanship, culture, and collaboration under one roof.

The Bindery counter with garage door windows

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African American Chamber of Commerce of Wisconsin

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African American Chamber of Commerce of Wisconsin

Location: Milwaukee, WI

Project Owner: African American Chamber of Commerce of Wisconsin

Project Sector: Nonprofit

Size: 4,212/Sqf

Architect: Galbraith Carnahan Architects

The African American Chamber of Commerce of Wisconsin (AACCW) partnered with JCP Construction to bring to life a vibrant coworking and entrepreneurship hub in the heart of Milwaukee’s historic Martin Luther King Drive corridor. This 4,212-square-foot facility was designed to foster innovation, collaboration, and economic growth for emerging businesses.

In addition to the modern coworking environment, the building houses the AACCW’s headquarters and SHARED, a state-of-the-art community commercial kitchen that provides food entrepreneurs with the resources to develop, scale, and launch their businesses.

As General Contractor, JCP Construction is proud to have delivered a project that not only supports small business development but also strengthens the ecosystem of diverse entrepreneurs shaping Milwaukee’s future.

African American Chamber of Commerce of Wisconsin workspace

African American Chamber of Commerce of Wisconsin hallway

African American Chamber of Commerce of Wisconsin meeting space

African American Chamber of Commerce of Wisconsin community commercial kitchen

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Milwaukee County War Memorial Center

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Milwaukee County War Memorial Center

Location: Milwaukee, WI

Project Owner: Milwaukee County

Project Sector: Municipal/Government

Size: 150,000 /Sqf

Architect: HGA

JCP Construction proudly self-performed the general trades package as part of a critical infrastructure upgrade at the historic Milwaukee County War Memorial Center. This project focused on modernizing the facility’s HVAC systems, ensuring improved climate control, energy efficiency, and long-term performance for one of Milwaukee’s most iconic civic landmarks.

Our work supported the preservation and functionality of this culturally significant building, which serves as both a tribute to veterans and a central hub for public events and community engagement. By self-performing the general trades, JCP delivered high-quality workmanship, on-time execution, and seamless coordination with project stakeholders—demonstrating our ongoing commitment to excellence on projects that matter to the heart of the city.

Milwaukee County War Memorial Center exterior

Milwaukee County War Memorial Center building exterior near lake

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Froedtert Hospital – Drexel Square

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Froedtert Hospital – Drexel Square

Location: St. Francis, WI

Project Owner: Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin

Project Sector: Healthcare

Size: 109,000/Sqf

Architect: Eppstein Uhen Architects

JCP Construction played a key role in the construction of this transformative healthcare facility by completing the concrete footings for the parking garage and tenant build-out. Located at the high-traffic intersection of West Drexel Avenue and South Sixth Street in Oak Creek, the state-of-the-art, three-story, 109,000-square-foot Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin health center expands access to essential medical services for the growing south suburban community.

The facility offers a full spectrum of care—including primary care, urgent care, an advanced outpatient surgery center, and a cutting-edge cancer center—all under one roof. With a focus on convenience, innovation, and patient-centered design, this project reflects Froedtert’s commitment to providing high-quality care in a modern, accessible setting.

Froedtert Hospital – Drexel Square urgent care area

Froedtert Hospital – Drexel Square nurse station

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Advocate Aurora Healthcare Clinic – St. Francis

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Advocate Aurora Healthcare Clinic – St. Francis

Location: St. Francis, WI

Project Owner: Advocate Aurora Health

Project Sector: Healthcare

Size: 80,000/Sqf

Architect: Zimmerman Architectural Studio

In collaboration with CG Schmidt Construction and Zimmerman Architectural Studios, JCP Construction completed the renovation of a Pediatric Clinic, as well as a portion of a General Medical Clinic at the Advocate Aurora Healthcare Clinic location in St. Francis. The scope of the renovation was mainly cosmetic with the relocation of an entry from the waiting room to the clinic space in the General Practice Clinic. The relocation of the wall made it necessary to make some minor adjustments to the Fire Protection System. Throughout the clinic spaces new flooring, paint, ceiling tiles, casework/laminate countertops and window treatments were replaced. Exam rooms also received new sinks and faucets along with updated specialties. Patient and staff restrooms were completely remodeled with new plumbing fixtures, ceramic tile, paint, and toilet accessories.

Advocate Aurora Healthcare Clinic – St. Francis hallway

Advocate Aurora Healthcare Clinic – St. Francis exam rooms

Advocate Aurora Healthcare Clinic – St. Francis provider office

Advocate Aurora Healthcare Clinic – St. Francis desk area

Advocate Aurora Healthcare Clinic – St. Francis exam room

Advocate Aurora Healthcare Clinic – St. Francis receptionist desk and lobby

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Northwestern Mutual

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Northwestern Mutual

Location: Milwaukee, WI

Project Owner: Northwestern Mutual

Project Sector: Corporate

Size: 1,100,000/Sqf

Architect: Pickard Chilton (lead: Jon Pickard)

JCP Construction self-performed the installation of the millwork for both the commons and tower of their downtown Milwaukee building.

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Thrive On King

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Thrive On King

Location: Milwaukee, WI

Project Owner: Royal Capital Group

Project Sector: Nonprofit

Size: 455,000/Sqf

Architect: Engberg Anderson Architects

JCP Construction served as Joint General Contractor with C.G. Schmidt on ThriveOn King, a landmark $150 million, 450,000-square-foot redevelopment of the historic Gimbels-Schuster’s building in Milwaukee’s Bronzeville district. The project combines adaptive reuse with new construction to deliver a dynamic mix of commercial, office, and residential space.

The commercial phase—completed in April 2024—includes headquarters for the Greater Milwaukee Foundation and offices for the Medical College of Wisconsin, along with community-centered spaces that promote collaboration, innovation, and equitable development. The 89-unit residential component was completed in early 2025.

Thrive On King workspace and conference room

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Bader Philanthropies Headquarters

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Bader Philanthropies Headquarters

Location: Milwaukee, WI

Project Owner: Bader Philanthropies, Inc.

Project Sector: Nonprofit

Size: 22,000/Sqf

Architect: Uihlein/Wilson Architects

JCP Construction led the transformation of a 90-year-old, two story former bank at 3318 N. MLK Jr. Drive in Milwaukee’s Harambee neighborhood into the new global headquarters for Bader Philanthropies. The $9–9.5 million project (started spring 2017, completed July 2018) included a sensitive renovation preserving the historic façade and structural elements, a modern addition featuring a kosher kitchen, collaborative “Hub” space, conference rooms, offices, and support for community-focused amenities such as a café and wellness center.

Bader Philanthropies Headquarters staircase

Bader Philanthropies Headquarters hallway

Bader Philanthropies Headquarters balcony

Bader Philanthropies Headquarters workspace

Bader Philanthropies Headquarters collaborative workspace

Bader Philanthropies Headquarters conference room

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Cathedral Square Park

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Cathedral Square Park

Location: Milwaukee, WI

Project Owner: Milwaukee County

Project Sector: Municipal/Government

Size: 91,476 /Sqf

Architect: HNTB

JCP Construction played a key role in enhancing the accessibility and aesthetics of Cathedral Square Park in downtown Milwaukee. The team installed decorative concrete and constructed wider sidewalks to improve pedestrian flow and create a more welcoming environment for park visitors.

In addition to the functional upgrades, JCP also built decorative knee walls that add architectural interest while helping define spaces within the park. These improvements contribute to the park’s overall usability and visual appeal, reinforcing its role as a vibrant community gathering space in the heart of the city.