Jeremy Ratliff
Reporter

Immediately following the completion and subsequent opening of the new 38-unit Stonebridge Housing Complex in August, the Merrill Area Housing Authority (MAHA) earnestly embarked on the second and third phases of its project in partnership with WHEDA (Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority), solely intended to overhaul the existing housing market in the city.

The Park Place renovation, carrying a projected completion date of mid-November, entails the consolidation of 92 one-bedroom apartment units to 54. When completed, 60 440-square-foot units and 32 490-square-foot units will be converted to 54 units, ranging in size from 603-730 square feet. The newly finished units will feature a range of amenities including air conditioning units, dishwashers, laundry facilities on every other floor and access for wi-fi internet and cable television.
The most important addition to the Park Place complex, according to MAHA Executive Director Paul Russell, is a new exterior elevator.
“The addition of the new elevator will provide ease of access for emergency services, in the event any of our residents are in need of immediate medical attention,” Russell explained. “Along with designated parking for emergency vehicles, the elevator will allow the space needed for emergency medical personnel to safely and adequately respond to calls for assistance, and transport residents when the need arises.”

The project is the first major renovation of the housing complex, since its original completion in 1970.
“This is the third phase of a project intended to make significant investment in the future housing market of the city,” Russell adds. “Our goal is to provide our community with modern, affordable housing options viable for the next 50 years.”
The second phase of the $16 million project, entailing renovations to the Westgate apartment building on Thomas Street, also kicked off in September and wrapped up last month. That project consisted of primarily infrastructure updates, including electrical service upgrades, appliance replacement and minor interior work on some units such as countertop replacement, new flooring and fresh paint.