According to the Wisconsin State Journal, Dane County plans to contribute new funding in the amount of $1.5 million for a far east side shelter for men experiencing homelessness. The money will cover increased building costs, closing a $2–3 million funding gap in the project announced this summer.
The cost increases come mainly from the inclusion of additional day space and a facility backup generator. The county’s total contribution for the shelter now stands at $10.5 million, with an estimated $21.5 million allocated for the development between the city and county.
The shelter is planned to be over 42,000 square feet and able to house 250 men. It sits on city-owned land at 1901 Bartillon Drive. Funding for the project will be part of County Executive Joe Parisi’s 2024 budget, up for County Board consideration in the coming weeks. The budget also includes a continued $376,000 county investment to operate the facility with nonprofit Porchlight, which provides services to the homeless.
The city is seeking public input about the development and will have a virtual informational meeting this Wednesday.
