Milwaukee Board Rejects McGovern Park Redevelopment

The Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors voted 10-7 to reject a proposal to redevelop the McGovern Park Senior Center by adding 30 to 55 units of affordable senior housing and a new community center on public parkland. The plan, backed by Jewish Family Services and $2 million in federal funding, aimed to address costly maintenance needs and a shortage of senior housing, but faced strong opposition from residents concerned about losing green space. Advocates highlighted the deteriorating condition of the senior center and financial barriers to renovation, while opponents insisted on preserving the park’s recreational use. Emotional testimony from seniors underscored the center’s role as a vital community hub. With the rejection, the county now faces the challenge of finding $20 million in alternative funding for needed improvements. The future of the senior center’s renovation remains uncertain as supporters of the park vow to continue seeking solutions that maintain public green space.