The community of Kenosha, Wisconsin has gone "old school". Literally. The decision to replace old and unused school buildings with new single-family residences makes for an interesting use of available land. It continues to seemingly growing trend of municipalities taking action to increase economic development.
Making these types of conversions happen takes plenty of research and follow through, especially when many cities are not known to be aggressive in terms of creative ways to spur economic growth. In cases like this, both sides need to have done their homework. The municipality can come up with necessary business statistics and demographics to support their project. However, the buyers, builders, developers, and investors involved in making these projects happen need to be sure they have a viable opportunity.
However, the very first thing is having knowledge of the potential opportunity, followed by doing their homework. I am currently involved with putting projects together for three separate municipalities and meeting with city or village officials to give and gather helpful information. One result is that I find myself in both teaching and learning situations. Conversions, zoning changes to accommodate proposals from municipally owned land, research, and cost estimation are only part of the process. We now have more environmental, sustainable, and energy concerns as part of the guidelines than in the past (which is a great thing!). Some parcels are delivered with utilities and infrastructure ready (or close to it), while others are not.
There are plenty of opportunities right now, regardless of interest rates and other circumstances which are roadblocks if you let them be. All three opportunities I am currently involved in came from a single conversation, each with people that could help pave the way. No matter how busy my day is, I always have time for new connections and exploring new opportunities.
https://www.wpr.org/news/wisconsin-kenosha-demolishing-school-buildings-housing