This week, I had the opportunity to provide public comment to the City Of Green Bay Redevelopment Authority, regarding the proposed Grand Boulevard development. This is a 95 unit project on the east side of town that is designed to be workforce housing. The measures supporting Grand Boulevard passed.

I ultimately spoke in support because the committee had already tackled my concerns. That Grand Boulevard move forward with a focus on maintaining its affordability.

Many of you know that I’m originally from Orlando. Sadly, myself with many fell victim to the affordable housing crisis in the area. Luckily, my career brought me to Green Bay, where there are real strides taking place to ensure that if you’re working hard you can have a place to live and the opportunity to thrive.

Now, what makes Grand Boulevard work is that companies in the area are actually paying enough to cover the rent there. “Market Rate” can mean anything depending on what soil you’re standing on. In Orlando, it meant unaffordable rent on tourism job wages which equals homelessness. At the time of publication, market rate here means if you’re working full time and hitting the median income you could be a fit.

And if Grand Boulevard meets its potential, then it’s an “open for business” sign for other companies that want to work here in Northeast Wisconsin. The development is situated next to major employers who have been printing paychecks for a long time. Normally, communities will say bring the jobs but do little else. Green Bay is assisting in creating a holistic occupational set up. That’s pretty cool.

Let’s see where this goes.