Affordable housing project to bring 80 homes, 20 duplexes to Milwaukee's north side

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- As housing prices skyrocket and the market becomes more intimidating, several groups are collaborating to build more than 100 new homes on Milwaukee's north side.

Within four years, vacant lots in the 15th district will be occupied by affordable housing, with a plan to build 80 new single-family homes and 20 duplexes.

"We have the second worst homeownership rate for Black families in the entire country, and it doesn't have to be that way," said Teig Whaley-Smith with Community Development Alliance.

The initiative is meant to build equity in Milwaukee's Midtown and King Park neighborhoods.

"This is a complete investment in the central city. An area that needs it, an area that will help bring back safety and attraction to the neighborhood," said Alderman Russell Stamper.

The project will bring 120 new homes through American Rescue Plan Act funding, and money raised by the Community Development Alliance.

Duplexes will be built by Emem Group, and Habitat for Humanity will build houses.

"Single story, 1,000 square foot, 3-bedroom, 1-bath homes, brand new construction on all previously vacant, city owned lots," explained Chris Garrison with Habitat for Humanity.

Mortgages for the properties will be under $700 a month.

"These homes are available for people that are making what is the county median income of $50,000 or less, which is where we need to focus to achieve racial equity in home ownership," Whaley-Smith said.

Alderman Stamper said there will also be a rent-to-own option for the properties.

The project will intentionally keep homes from being bought by private investors.

Community Development Alliance estimates investors take about 40% of available properties each year.

"The first thing we need to do is make sure that homes that are already built for homeowners stay in the hands of homeowners, but even when we do that, we need to build new construction as well," Whaley-Smith said.

The vision is to improve the quality of life and build wealth for diverse Milwaukeeans.

"The number one way you build a community, number one way you make it safe is with home ownership," Stamper said.

Those interested in a new home can start the application process now, through housing counselors with Take Root Milwaukee.