Milwaukee County investment helped bring Whitefish Bay development to life

Developer Brian Spoerl during a ribbon cutting ceremony at The Hampton community housing called Milwaukee County‘s $3 million investment a “game changer” for housing projects.

The founder and managing director of Spoerl Commercial made the comments shortly before announcing the opening of the 17-unit property in Whitefish Bay on the corner of Santa Monica Boulevard and Hampton Road, which got its occupancy permit the same morning on May 28, Spoerl said. Milwaukee County pitched in $3.09 million to help cover building costs, roughly half the entire project cost, he added. Spoerl praised County Executive David Crowley for his agency’s help.

“Executive Crowley’s economic mobility to the suburbs funding has been a game changer,” he said. “And not only for this project, but for many projects throughout Milwaukee County.”

The Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority also pitched in $1.16 million...

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Leo's notes: The Hampton illustrates how suburban communities are increasingly becoming part of the affordable housing solution. Milwaukee County’s willingness to support housing development beyond the urban core recognizes that housing affordability is a regional issue, and that expanding housing choices in high-opportunity communities can improve economic mobility, workforce access, and long-term community health. A model worth replicating outside of other major WI cities.