Although it may not look like it from the outside, things are still coming together for a future affordable apartment complex in Manitowoc.
The Neighborhood, which runs the Manitowoc Warming Shelter, is still doing construction and remodeling the future apartments at the former McKinley Elementary School.
Board of Directors President Pastor Matt Sauer tells Seehafernews.com that work inside the former school includes demolition to return it to what it looked like when it was built in 1910.
Since then, the architectural plans have been approved by the state, and they are currently in the process of obtaining bids for future construction.
Back in October, The Neighborhood received significant help from the state in getting the former McKinley School, first known as Luling School, listed on the Wisconsin Register of Historic Places.
Sauer says that means a lot because it “recognizes it’s a significant part of history, not only in Manitowoc but across the state, and the role that it played in transitioning different educational systems and educational models as those evolved. So, we’re preserving history in Manitowoc, we’re also improving a neighborhood.”
The other benefit the historic places status gives the organization is access to 40% state tax credits.
“We’re still getting bids, but right now our estimate is around $10 million,” he explained. “So 40% tax credits, of course, that’s simple math, that’s $4 million.”
Sauer explains that the organization is working with Associated Bank to hold the credits, as it isn’t directly accessible as a nonprofit.
There will eventually be some construction on the outside of the building, including removing some bricks to allow windows to be reinstalled.
Later on, The Neighborhood will be looking for local donations, but will also apply for grants and ask corporate partners for support to make the affordable apartments a reality.
An estimated 36 apartments would be built on the former school site.
“Seventeen of them are studio apartments for a single person or a couple,” he described. “And then they’ll be several one bedrooms, a couple of two bedrooms, and one three-bedroom.”
Members from Hope House and The Haven would then be able to rent the apartments as they transition to possible home ownership in the future.
The Neighborhood purchased the former school from the city back in June 2024.
