by Glenn Minnis
Dane County Executive Joe Parisi and Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway have announced a $9 million investment for the state’s first men’s homeless shelter.
“City-County announces additional $9 million investment in men’s homeless shelter,” Rhodes-Conway posted on Twitter highlighting the sides continued partnership. “A new commitment from @DaneCoJoe represents the single largest investment in the Dane County Capital Budget.”
With construction set to begin in 2024, the 40,000 square foot facility at 1902 Bartillon Drive will have space to house up to 200 people. The $9 million now earmarked for the project is an increase of $3 million from the original estimate, which is to be added to the $10 million fund from the city and a $2 million federal grant.
The new shelter comes with an accommodating and safe shower, laundry and kitchen facilities, isolation and quarantine beds, welcoming spaces and supportive services to help rehome and reestablish patrons.
Supporters of the plan add the housing crisis in Madison was intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic, necessitating a project as big as the one now in the works.
“A purpose-built shelter with housing-focused services will fill a critical need in our community,” Rhodes-Conway added in a press release. “County and City government has an important role to play in addressing this persistent, and growing, challenge. The combined commitment of $21 million toward a purpose-built shelter, set forth in our respective capital budgets, is a long overdue step to fill a gap in our community. But for this facility to be successful in connecting people experiencing homelessness with stable housing, we must also be willing to invest in this comprehensive approach. Government cannot do all of this without help from the private sector.”
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Photo “Satya Rhodes-Conway” by Satya Rhodes-Conway.
