The Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. identifies affordable housing as the primary engine for economic growth.
John W. Miller, WEDC’s new president and CEO, emphasizes that the health of the state depends on the sustainability of its smaller towns. He tells Mid-West Farm Report that the challenge isn’t just finding workers, but ensuring those workers have a place to call home.
“Affordable housing is actually probably the number one issue that we have in attracting and retaining workers and residents in keeping our rural communities growing,” Miller says.
The strategy involves “holistic” redevelopment, specifically repurposing iconic, vacant structures like former elementary schools and banks. By providing state grants, the WEDC helps private developers bridge the financial gap that often exists in smaller-market projects.
John highlights that keeping the next generation in Wisconsin is a top priority, but says that the solution requires a full-circle approach to community planning.
“We need to make sure that there’s somewhere for them to live so that they can work in those communities,” he explains.
With funding remaining consistent through the current biennial budget, the WEDC plans to continue its “multi-pronged” approach, blending retail and residential spaces to ensure that Wisconsin’s historic downtowns remain vibrant hubs for years to come.
Learn more: https://wedc.org/
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