Eyeing affordable housing solutions, the Milwaukee Department of City Development is on the move to set up two new tax incremental districts (TIDs), eager to turn vacant spaces and underused buildings into opportunities for city dwellers. Scheduled for a public airing on today, July 3, TID 127 and TID 128 are the city's latest pitch to make living in Milwaukee not just possible but practical for a diverse population.
Announced with the backing of Mayor Cavalier Johnson, these TIDs aim to transform a long-empty commercial site on King Drive and an idle office tower downtown into vibrant residential hubs. According to the city's announcement, the move follows updated guidelines that put affordable and workforce housing at the forefront, with an eye on repurposing spaces that are central yet underutilized.
"I want quality, affordable homes for people in Milwaukee. And my administration is advancing that goal with thoughtful investments in new housing options," explained Mayor Johnson in the statement. This sentiment is echoed by DCD Commissioner Lafayette L. Crump, who told the City of Milwaukee's official website, "We want to grow Milwaukee in a way that ensures it remains affordable and accessible to all."
The creation of these TIDs falls in line with the city's revised focus on housing, which was crystallized with the release of updated Tax Incremental Financing for Housing Development Guidelines back in April. These new districts, TID 127 for the Downtown project and TID 128 named Compass Lofts, stand as testaments of the city's commitment to keeping Milwaukee's growth inclusive, according to the DCD Commissioner's vision shared on the city's news release.
