Unlocking the Potential of Upper-Floor Housing in Downtown Ellsworth
As Ellsworth continues to grow, so does the demand for quality housing options within our community. One solution lies right above our heads—literally. Across Wisconsin, communities like ours are tapping into the potential of upper floor housing in Ellsworth to address housing shortages and breathe new life into main street districts.
Many buildings in downtown Ellsworth feature upper-floor spaces that are underutilized or completely vacant. With the right vision and investment, these areas could be transformed into charming downtown apartments. Imagine creating unique living spaces with historic architectural character, all within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and community events. This type of residential conversion supports our vision for a vibrant, connected downtown.
How Upper-Floor Housing Revitalizes Communities
A recent article from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) highlights this growing trend and offers guidance on how to turn vision into reality. The piece discusses architectural planning, code considerations, and funding opportunities that can help property owners overcome common hurdles in converting upper-floor spaces into housing. These conversions not only help solve the housing shortage—they also support downtown economies, strengthen foot traffic, and give new purpose to underutilized space.
If you're a property owner in Ellsworth’s downtown, this is your opportunity to make a meaningful impact. Converting your space into upper floor housing can provide you with a steady income stream while giving back to the community in a significant way.
Ellsworth is already home to several buildings that have begun exploring these possibilities. With the current housing shortage and our community’s desire to grow while preserving its small-town charm, this approach aligns perfectly with our shared goals.
Curious about how to get started? The WEDC article offers excellent insights, examples, and resources to guide you through the process.
Click here to read the WEDC article: Facilitating Upper-Floor Housing