The board of directors of the Zilber Family Foundation announced two grants totaling nearly $800,000 in support of projects that will improve the physical appearance and economic vitality of neighborhoods. The grants invest in a multipart strategy to improve housing conditions in the Clarke Square and Layton Boulevard West neighborhoods and support a commercial development project along North Avenue in Lindsay Heights.

“The physical conditions in neighborhoods have a demonstrated impact on factors such as social relationships, health outcomes, safety, and child development. Investments in developing and preserving homes and buildings will have far reaching positive effects on the quality of life in neighborhoods,” said Susan Lloyd, executive director of the Zilber Family Foundation.

A grant of $299,000 over two years to Layton Boulevard West Neighbors will support home improvement strategies with matching grants for exterior home repairs in the Clarke Square and Layton Boulevard West neighborhoods. “With continued support from the Zilber Family Foundation, we will connect neighbors with resources to renovate their homes that will result in enhanced neighborhood appearance, stabilized home values, and bolstered community pride and confidence,” said Charlotte John-Gomez, executive director of Layton Boulevard West Neighbors.

A second project will anchor the Lindsay Heights commercial corridor along North Avenue and attract more than $6 million of investment. Walnut Way Conservation Corporation was awarded $500,000 for phase one development of the Innovations and Wellness Commons, a catalytic project to redevelop North Avenue between 16th and 17th Streets. When both phases of construction are completed, the Commons will provide access to social services, economic development programs, job opportunities, and new businesses committed to meeting the needs of the neighborhood. “The Zilber grant will make a tremendous difference,” said Sharon Adams, program director at Walnut Way.

A community-based nonprofit organization, Walnut Way is working with a development team that includes Baker Tilly; CG Schmidt; Mayer Helminiak Architects; Reinhart, Boerner, Van Deuren; and, Juli Kaufmann of Fix Development. “Phase one of the Commons will return a locally significant property to productive use, enhance community health and safety, and bring jobs and outside investment to our neighborhood.”

“The board of directors of the Zilber Family Foundation understands the important function that physical development plays in neighborhood stabilization and revitalization,” said Susan Lloyd, executive director of the Zilber Family Foundation. “The board is pleased to support these organizations as they strategically invest in and improve the conditions in Milwaukee neighborhoods.”