Sheboygan Common Council Approves Zoning Changes For Froedtert Development

The Sheboygan Common Council approved zoning amendments for three land parcels at their bi-weekly meeting on Monday night, paving the way for a medical and residential development on the city’s northwest side. The 26-acre development, led by Froedtert Health, will be located on North Taylor Drive between Saemann and Geele Avenues.

At the heart of the complex, a neighborhood hospital, surgery center, and clinic space will occupy 12.1 acres on the southeast corner of the site. In addition, the development will feature 150-200 senior housing units, comprising low-density independent living spaces spread across 7.3 acres on the southeast side and high-density assisted living and memory care facilities on 6.3 acres at the northwest corner.

Froedtert Health aims to address the local demand for senior housing, bring an academic-based healthcare option to the area, and provide a home base for local physicians currently practicing outside of Sheboygan. The $70 million capital investment is anticipated to create up to 300 permanent jobs in the region.

Before approving the zoning changes, the Council heard concerns from neighboring residents. The main issues revolved around the development’s potential impact on wildlife and its possible disruption to the neighborhood’s tranquility. The three parcels are currently undeveloped and inhabited by various wildlife species, including deer and wild turkey.

Froedtert officials reassured that they are dedicated to preserving as much of the wooded area and wildlife habitat as feasible. They are also working with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to ensure compliance with any regulations pertaining to the property’s wetlands.

Chad Pelishek, Sheboygan’s Director of Planning and Development, informed residents that they will have further opportunities to express concerns as the project progresses. This includes Froedtert’s applications for conditional use permits by the City Plan Commission.

Last year, Froedtert Health acquired the 26-acre site from the Sheboygan Area School District for $3 million. The purchase was one of three offers considered by the district.

As the project moves forward, the Sheboygan community can expect to see the development take shape, with construction scheduled to begin in the coming months. The new medical facility and senior housing units will not only address local healthcare and housing needs but also contribute to the city’s economic growth.

Community engagement will play a crucial role in the development’s success. The collaboration between Froedtert Health, city officials, and local residents will ensure that the project meets the needs of the community while minimizing its impact on the environment and neighborhood aesthetics.

The development of this site represents a significant milestone for Sheboygan, as it marks an expansion in healthcare services and senior living options for the city. This project also highlights the importance of addressing the needs of the aging population, which is a concern shared by many communities across the nation.

The Sheboygan Common Council’s decision to approve the zoning changes for the Froedtert Health development demonstrates a commitment to enhancing the city’s healthcare infrastructure and providing much-needed housing for its senior residents. As the project progresses, stakeholders will continue working together to ensure its success and benefit to the community.