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'Home for the holidays': Applications open for third home rehabbed in Metcalfe Park

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  Published in House and Home on Wednesday, November 5th 2025 at 7:32 GMT by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
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The Project Overview

At the heart of the initiative is a historic single‑family dwelling located on Metcalfe Park Road. The house, built in the early 20th century, had long been considered a relic of the past but was in disrepair by the early 2020s. A partnership between the City of Milwaukee, local civic groups, and a nonprofit developer has restored the property to its former glory, upgrading the structural integrity, installing modern amenities, and preserving its architectural character.

The restored home will serve multiple purposes: a model of sustainable, affordable housing; a venue for community gatherings; and a symbol of progress for the neighborhood. The design incorporates green building practices such as solar panels, high‑efficiency insulation, and a rainwater harvesting system. It also includes a small, privately managed community garden, offering residents a chance to grow their own produce.

The Lottery Mechanism

In keeping with the city's commitment to equitable development, the home will be awarded through a lottery rather than a traditional sale or rental process. Eligible participants include long‑time residents of the Metcalfe Park area, members of local community organizations, and individuals who have demonstrated a history of community engagement. The lottery will be conducted on 12th November, with winners announced the following week.

To enter, applicants must submit a short application form, which will ask for proof of residency, a statement of community involvement, and a brief explanation of how the renovated home would benefit their family. Each applicant is allowed up to three entries, one per qualifying organization or community group, to broaden the pool of participants.

Community Bridges’ Role

Metcalfe Park Community Bridges has long served as a hub for civic engagement. The organization hosts workshops, neighborhood clean‑ups, and town‑hall meetings, and is known for its dedication to inclusive decision‑making. Its involvement in the lottery adds a layer of community oversight to the selection process, ensuring that the house goes to someone who will actively contribute to the local ecosystem.

Community Bridges will also manage the post‑sale maintenance of the home’s shared spaces. In addition to the garden, the property will feature a small, landscaped courtyard that will be open to the public during designated hours. This space will serve as a gathering point for neighborhood events, such as summer barbecues, holiday markets, and seasonal festivals.

Funding and Partnerships

The renovation project was funded through a combination of municipal bonds, philanthropic grants, and private donations. A key partner was the Milwaukee Housing Authority, which contributed $1.2 million toward the restoration and oversaw compliance with local housing codes. Additionally, the city’s Office of Sustainability provided an incentive for the inclusion of eco‑friendly features, reducing long‑term operational costs.

Local businesses also played a role. A construction company based in Milwaukee supplied labor and materials at a discounted rate in exchange for future work on municipal projects. A nearby university’s architecture department contributed design expertise, ensuring that the home retained its historical aesthetic while meeting modern standards.

Expected Impact

The renovated home is expected to have a ripple effect on the broader Metcalfe Park neighborhood. First, it will raise property values by demonstrating that historic preservation can be profitable and sustainable. Second, it will provide a tangible example of how community investment can yield both social and economic benefits. Finally, the home’s garden and courtyard will become communal assets that foster interaction and cooperation among residents.

In an interview, Community Bridges’ executive director emphasized that the goal was “to create a space that embodies the values of our neighborhood—community, sustainability, and resilience.” She added that the lottery was designed to democratize access to the home, ensuring that it goes to someone who can truly make a difference in the area.

How to Stay Informed

The city’s official website will host a dedicated page for the lottery, with downloadable application forms and FAQs. Community Bridges will also hold an informational session on 10th November, held at the local library, to walk prospective applicants through the process. In addition, a series of social media posts on Instagram and Facebook will provide updates, highlight the home’s historical significance, and showcase community members’ stories.

Conclusion

Metcalfe Park Community Bridges’ upcoming lottery for a renovated home marks a milestone in Milwaukee’s ongoing efforts to revitalize its historic neighborhoods. By combining thoughtful design, sustainable practices, and community involvement, the project promises to set a new standard for affordable, community‑centric development. As the city’s residents prepare to submit their applications, the anticipation is palpable, and the potential for positive change is clear.