Supervisors Gómez-Tom, Eckblad Address Park and Ride Closures
MILWAUKEE – Supervisors Caroline Gómez-Tom and Jack Eckblad released the following statement today in response to the announced closures of the Holt Avenue and College Avenue Park and Ride facilities:
“The decision by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) to close the Holt Avenue and College Avenue Park and Ride facilities fails to address the underlying issues contributing to homelessness in our community. To effectively tackle this complex challenge, we must prioritize the development of affordable housing, implement robust tenant protections, and uphold the rights of individuals facing housing instability. These measures are essential for preventing homelessness and ensuring that all members of our community have access to safe and stable living conditions. A commitment from the state government to increase funding for a comprehensive approach that includes these resources will be far more effective in addressing the root causes of homelessness in a more ethical and financially responsible manner than addressing the symptoms of homelessness through the closure of public resources.
“Milwaukee County’s Housing First outreach team has worked tirelessly for many months to successfully house more than 80 individuals and remove more than 20 abandoned vehicles the Park and Rides. Recently, they worked in partnership with Guest House, a non-profit organization that helps the unhoused, to coordinate resources for another encampment being removed across the street from the Guest House facility. We expect the Wisconsin Department of Transportation to emulate this responsible and compassionate approach as they seek to remove encampments at the Park and Rides.
“Homelessness is a multifaceted issue that cannot be resolved through short-term solutions or superficial measures. To genuinely address the rising rates of homelessness, we must prioritize the creation and preservation of affordable housing options. The State of Wisconsin should commit more funding to policies that incentivize the development of affordable housing units, along with funding for housing assistance programs that can provide a pathway for individuals and families to secure stable living conditions. There should be policies in place to limit excessive increases in rent and risk of evictions, while dedicating state dollars to help people stay in their homes through rent assistance and other means.
“While the WisDOT’s decision to close the Park and Rides may be well-intentioned, it does not adequately address the systemic issues contributing to homelessness in our community. It is imperative that we prioritize critical resources to effectively combat homelessness and foster a more inclusive and supportive community for everyone.”
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
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