Milwaukee County is poised to enhance its affordable housing landscape and improve community services following a recent government meeting where officials discussed the approval of a term sheet for the redevelopment of the McGovern Senior Center. This initiative, led by the Department of Health and Human Services (JFS), aims to integrate affordable housing for seniors with the existing park infrastructure, addressing both housing shortages and the need for updated community facilities.

The meeting highlighted the urgency of activating a $2 million congressional earmark designated for affordable housing. Officials emphasized the importance of moving quickly to secure these funds for the McGovern project, as they represent the last available affordable housing funds for Milwaukee County. The project is expected to begin the zoning process immediately upon approval, with a goal to complete it by December 2025, in time for a low-income housing tax credit application due in May 2026.

Community engagement will be a cornerstone of the project, with plans to involve local residents in the design process and gather feedback throughout the development stages. JFS is committed to ensuring that the project remains affordable in perpetuity, preventing any conversion to market-rate housing.

In addition to the housing component, the redevelopment is seen as a way to revitalize the park area, with assurances that public access will be preserved. Concerns about potential negative impacts, such as increased crime or reduced parkland, were addressed, with officials arguing that the presence of more residents could enhance safety and community oversight.

The project is not without its challenges, including a funding gap that will require additional fundraising efforts. However, the collaboration between JFS and Milwaukee County is viewed as a creative solution to tackle the dual issues of aging infrastructure and the affordable housing crisis.

As the project moves forward, officials will continue to seek input from the community and provide updates to the County Board, ensuring transparency and ongoing dialogue with stakeholders. The anticipated start of construction is set for 2027, marking a significant step towards improving both housing and community services in Milwaukee County.