Ali Hoffman
Aug 26, 2026
Press Release: Exploring Milwaukee’s housing history, development, zoning and land use with local experts and hands-on learning
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MILWAUKEE, Wisconsin — August 26, 2026 — Who gets to live in Milwaukee? What kinds of homes can be built? And what would it take to create more housing choices for people at all stages of life and income levels?
Those are some of the key questions Milwaukee County residents will explore this fall through the Community Housing Academy, a free, seven-week program designed to give residents and community leaders the knowledge and tools to better understand and participate in conversations about housing.
Hosted by Housing Onward Wisconsin (a program of 1000 Friends of Wisconsin), the academy runs Wednesdays from September 16 through October 28 at Independence First in Milwaukee. The program brings together a diverse group of residents, elected officials, students, developers, builders, and real estate professionals to learn about the forces shaping Milwaukee’s housing future. No prior housing knowledge or experience is required.
Through local case studies, expert presentations and collaborative discussions, participants will examine Milwaukee’s housing history, the economics of housing development, zoning and land-use regulations, and the civic and political processes that influence what gets built and where.
“The goal is to teach people how housing actually works. First, learning about the history and policies that shaped our neighborhoods, and then understanding financing and current regulations that determine what gets built today,” said Tehila Cohen, Housing Field Organizer with 1000 Friends of Wisconsin. “When people have this knowledge, they can advocate more meaningfully in conversations about the future of their communities.”
We’re inviting the media to attend any of the seven academy sessions this fall to see the program in action and speak directly with participants and housing leaders. Join us for a special housing tour on October 7, where participants will observe Milwaukee neighborhoods and developments to learn about the challenges and opportunities that exist in the city. And don’t miss our final session on October 28, where participants will present their own ideas and potential solutions to local housing challenges identified throughout the course.
View the full Community Housing Academy schedule: https://www.housingonward.org/housing-academy
About Housing Onward Wisconsin:
Housing Onward Wisconsin is a statewide coalition of neighbors and nonprofits advancing practical housing solutions and updated land use policies to support strong, sustainable communities across Wisconsin. The Community Housing Academy is part of our work to build understanding of Wisconsin’s housing challenges and advance practical, nonpartisan solutions that create more housing choices.
Learn more: housingonward.org
For media inquiries or to arrange an interview, please contact:
Ali Hoffman
Communications & Digital Manager, 1000 Friends of Wisconsin
608-259-1000
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