Foxconn Technology Group has put down even more roots in Racine with its purchase of the former Elks Lodge, 601 Lake Ave. FE Lake Street LLC completed its purchase of the building on Dec. 19, according to published reports.
The business entity called FE Lake Street has the same address as the North American headquarters of Foxconn Technology Group in Milwaukee. According to Biz Times, a Milwaukee business publication, Foxconn has used this or similarly named companies to purchase other property around the state.
Official records for Racine County note that the building was assessed for 2017 tax purposes at $1.65 million. The building’s current occupants include offices for the law firm Jansson Munker McKinley & Kirby Ltd and Wells Fargo Advisors.
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A real estate listing for the property states: “Great Lake Michigan views from this professional office building located in the heart of downtown Racine, adjacent to Memorial Hall, Racine Library, Racine Festival Hall, and within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and the lakefront.”
“The property will support Foxconn’s “Smart City” initiatives throughout Racine and the state and will contribute to the company’s efforts to help position Wisconsin as a global hub for high-tech talent and businesses,” Foxconn Technology Group said in a released statement “Further announcements about 601 Lake Avenue will be made in due course.”
B.P.O.E. Lodge No. 252 was built in 1912. It was designed by prominent Racine architectural firm Guilbert and Funston. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its architecture, according to the Biz Times article.