HomeMy WebLinkAboutMiddleVillageNeighborhoodPlanMIDDLE VILLAGE
NEIGHBORHOOD PLAN
Prepared January 2013 –February 2014 by the
Middle Village Neighborhood Association
and City of Oshkosh-Planning Services Division
MIDDLE VILLAGE
NEIGHBORHOOD PLAN
A comprehensive report to address quality of life concerns in the Middle Village Neighborhood
Compiled and contributions by:
Middle Village Neighborhood Plan Work Group
Andrew Bosma, Christ Lutheran Representative
Artemis Wright, Resident
Brad Crook, Resident
Christina Crook, MVNA Treasurer
David Stubbe, Resident
Diane Hoffman, Resident
Janine Wright, Resident
James Englund, Landlord
John Hoffman, Resident
Judson Rikkers, Landlord
Julie Johnson,Winnebago County Historical Society
Kieran O’Callaghon, Resident
Kris Pillar, Resident
Linda Sanchez-Reid, Resident
Lori Palmeri, MVNA Coordinator
Lori Stubbe, Resident
Mark Arend, Resident
Pamela Pillar, Resident
Sarah Ponder, Resident
Thea Butt, Resident
Tony Palmeri, MVNA Board Member
With assistance from:
City of Oshkosh
Planning Services Division
“The Middle Village Neighborhood is a thriving, progressive community noted for affordable
housing options, architectural styles and the diversity of its residents. Care has been taken to
develop and preserve the historic character of the neighborhood including the park-like nature
of its tree-lined streets. The Middle Village Neighborhood includes well-maintained and
attractive properties and a vibrant and friendly community. This also includes pedestrian-
friendly streets and open space for children to play and neighbors to gather.”
-Middle Village Neighborhood Vision Statement
Table of Content_____________________________________________________
Neighborhood Planning Process ...................................................................................................1
Executive Summary........................................................................................................................2
Introduction...................................................................................................................................3
Neighborhood Projects..................................................................................................................3
Neighborhood History....................................................................................................................4
Existing Conditions.........................................................................................................................6
Developing the Vision for the Future of Middle Village...............................................................12
Assets and Concerns.....................................................................................................................14
Plan Development........................................................................................................................15
Community Building.........................................................................................................16
Public Infrastructure........................................................................................................18
Safety...............................................................................................................................20
Housing............................................................................................................................2 2
Appendix A –Neighborhood Projects
Neighborhood Project Map.............................................................................................25
Neighborhood Activity Timeline......................................................................................26
Appendix B –Neighborhood Maps
Neighborhood Boundary..................................................................................................28
Existing Land Use..............................................................................................................29
Existing Zoning..................................................................................................................30
Non-Owner Occupied Parcels...........................................................................................31
Appendix C –Blight Elimination Grant & Kick Off Event
Neighborhood Assessment...............................................................................................32
Appendix D –Neighborhood Survey.............................................................................................34
Appendix E –Neighborhood Crime Data......................................................................................37
1
Neighborhood Planning Process
The neighborhood planning process is a component of the City of Oshkosh -Healthy
Neighborhood Initiative (OHNI). The process was developed to identify what resident’s value
most within their neighborhood and outlines a clear vision of needs and priorities.The process is
resident-led,resulting in a neighborhood plan that serves as a guide for investment in the
neighborhood.Healthy neighborhoods are essential to the overall well being of Oshkosh and
should be viewed as the strategic building blocks of our community.A neighborhood plan must
strive to eliminate elements that erode character and enhance elements that improve the quality
of life for current and future residents. Architectural significance, pedestrian amenities, diversity,
affordability, and proximity to services are several examples of assets our neighborhoods possess.
Preservation, enhancement,and revitalization strategies to protect these assets have been
developed to ensure that Oshkosh’s neighborhoods prosper.Below are the steps taken to
complete the neighborhood planning process:
2
Executive Summary
The Middle Village Neighborhood Plan focuses on a target neighborhood, bounded by Church
Avenue, Jackson Street,W.Irving Avenue and N. Main Street. Like much of the central city, the
neighborhood has experienced significant disinvestment over the past thirty years. However,
existing neighborhood assets, combined with efforts by residents, the City of Oshkosh and partner
organizations have laid the foundation for neighborhood revitalization.
Since 2010, the Middle Village Neighborhood Association (MVNA)has served the neighborhood in
varying capacities, from social and cleanup events, blight elimination,resident engagement and
formal planning activities in partnership with the City of Oshkosh, Habitat for Humanity, and
NeighborWorks Badgerland.In 2011, the City of Oshkosh formally recognized Middle Village as a
neighborhood upon submission of their specific geographical and organizational information.In
2013, the Middle Village Plan Work Group was formed as a coalition of residents and partners to
support neighborhood revitalization.
This plan is prepared for the MVNA with the intent to support their efforts in addressing
neighborhood challenges and promoting reinvestment. Created during a yearlong resident led
planning effort the plan may be used by the MVNA,the City of Oshkosh, and partner organizations
to ensure neighborhood improvements and activities are implemented to meet the needs of the
residents who reside there.
The plan first offers a brief history, followed by a snapshot of current conditions, including both
assets and concerns identified throughout the planning process. The plan then outlines four focus
areas identified by MVNA during public input meetings: Community Building, Public Infrastructure,
Safety, and Housing. Individual sections explore each focus area in depth, assess current
conditions, provide goal details and objectives, and make specific recommendations for lead
implementers.
Planning for a neighborhood must always involve the most important stakeholders –its residents
and property owners. The plan was researched and drafted under the guidance of the MVNA
leadership, residents and city staff. Preliminary recommendations were then shared in a series of
public participation events where the resulting conversations and comments were used to shape
final recommendations for the plan.
Once the neighborhood plan is approved, a detailed implementation plan will be drafted. The
implementation plan will outline specific and time-bound steps to be taken to ensure plan
elements are successfully carried out. Additionally,the implementation plan will provide
performance measures to track the progress of future revitalization efforts.
3
Introduction__________________________________________________________
In January of 2013, Middle Village became the first recognized neighborhood association to begin
working with the City of Oshkosh to develop a neighborhood plan. Over the course of a year,
residents worked with staff to identify goals and objectives that would address current and future
issues concerning the neighborhood.
The purpose of this neighborhood plan is to develop strategies for addressing neighbors’ concerns,
and set the foundation for collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors to help
implement the plan recommendations. More specifically, neighborhood plans are intended to:
Educate both city government and neighborhood residents about each other’s concerns
and visions for the future.
Promote collaboration between the City,the neighborhood, and local public, private and
non-profit organizations in order to achieve mutual goals to enhance the neighborhood.
Create “pride of place” within the community by identifying and developing the assets
within each neighborhood.
Initiate change, rather than simply reacting to it, by addressing specific issues and
opportunities.
Strengthen the city by improving the quality of life in neighborhoods.
Neighborhood Projects
During the development of this plan several projects were completed and have begun to address
some of the neighborhood concerns.
Eliminated 3 vacant and blighted homes and purchased a vacant lot to provide the
opportunity for neighborhood green space.
Residents further developed a concept plan for their desired use of the vacant lots.
Neighborhood traffic survey in response to residents’concerns with speeding.
Worked with City staff on 2014 road reconstruction design to incorporate traffic calming
measures, wider terraces, and decorative street lighting.
Planted additional terrace trees on Franklin Street, Frederick Street, Church Avenue and W.
Irving Avenue.
Modifications to the garbage collection day.
Project Safe Passage to address issues associated with the Downtown Pub Crawl.
Organized clean up days with NeighborWorks Badgerland and Habitat for Humanity.
Neighborhood walks with the Oshkosh Police Department.
A full timeline of neighborhood activities and a map highlighting current and completed projects
can be found in Appendix A on page 29.
4
Neighborhood History_________________________________________________
Early 20th Century/Pre World War II
Just a little over one hundred years ago this
neighborhood was lined by lovely old trees, churches
and stately homes which were inhabited by some of
the most prominent families in Oshkosh. Since the late
1850's, lumber baron, John R. Morgan and his family
owned the property on Church, Franklin and Parkway
Street's.In 1884, Mr. Morgan built a stately Queen
Anne on the corner of Church Avenue and Franklin
Street. Their eldest daughter Elnora Morgan Rounds
would come to live next door at the corner of Franklin
and Parkway. Mr. Morgan's two nephews, Tom and
Albert Morgan, co-owners in the Morgan Company
also lived on Franklin and Parkway.
On Church Avenue, next door to Mr. Morgan
lived W. G. Maxcy, wealthy magnet of the
Oshkosh Water Works Co., today this
property is the home of Christ Lutheran
Church. Across the street lived Andrew
Jackson, then vice-president of the German-
American bank. Directly across the street
from Mr. Morgan was the prominent,
talented and wealthy family of George W.
Gates, retired manager of The Diamond
Match Company, today this is the property of
the Oshkosh Safety Building.Just around the
corner on Jackson Street in front of the
Oshkosh Safety Building was the beautiful
home of Richard Morgan, brother to John R.
Morgan both co-founders of Morgan Brothers
Company.
The prestige this neighborhood once had has
almost all but disappeared. Many of these
stately homes are still standing, however, many
have turned into rentals. Restored, the John R.
Morgan house still stands and is home of the
Winnebago County Historical Society.
W. G. Maxcy House –formerly 108 Church Avenue
Photo courtesy of the Oshkosh Public Museum
Edward R. Jones House–519 Franklin Street
Photo courtesy of the Oshkosh Public Museum
Andrew M. Willock House –Located at 538 Central Street
Photo courtesy of the Oshkosh Public Museum
5
Mid to End of 20th Century
German-built wood framed duplexes were constructed around or shortly after the turn of the
century. Northward, many homes were added to the mix of housing as blocks filled up in the
1920s and 1930s. Additionally, rail lines along Division Street made the neighborhood a viable
industrial center. Many industrial companies, both
large and infant, chose the corridor as a location for
business. Neighborhood residents did not have to go
far to major centers of employment, and residences
and neighborhood-based businesses thrived.
Just as Oshkosh’s industrial fortunes reached peak in
the 1960s and began to decline, so did the
neighborhoods surrounding the industrial river and
Main Street corridor. In the late 60’s and early 70’s,
highway development west of the downtown and
new subdivisions even further west became the new
“neighborhoods of choice”. The 1980s and 1990s saw
significant disinvestment in central city
neighborhoods as companies downsized or closed
their doors. In the late 1990s, the area saw a loss of
the Oshkosh B’Gosh plant and closing of the Morgan Door Company and subsequently, the Park
Plaza Mall on the riverfront. This decade was also when the railroad tracks along Division Street
were removed.
21st Century
By early 2000’s many properties were razed to
make way for a new development of townhouses
on Division Street by the Burns Development
Corporation. It was thought that would be a
catalytic development to spur further
reinvestment in the neighborhood.
Within a decade, this neighborhood-along with
the City of Oshkosh and the entire country’s
housing market took a turn for the worse. The
economic recession and financing woes hit
vulnerable communities especially hard, with
many foreclosures in Oshkosh’s central city
neighborhoods. Since the recession, investors have acquired foreclosures and converted once owner-
occupied residences to investment properties.
Former rail line along Division Street.
Burns Townhome Development -located on Division
Street between W. Irving Avenue and Church Avenue.
6
Existing Conditions_________________________________________________
Located just west of Main Street and east of the University of Wisconsin –Oshkosh campus, the
Middle Village neighborhood is bounded by Church Avenue on the south, Irving Avenue on the
north, and Jackson and Main Streets, on the east and west, respectively. The neighborhood is
roughly 44 acres with 187 parcels containing single-family homes, commercial businesses,
apartments,and churches.The graph below shows the existing land use within Middle Village.A
map showing the distribution of uses can be found in Appendix B on page 33.
Middle Village includes portions of the Irving/Church and North Main Street Historic Districts and
has many examples of well-maintained historic homes and businesses. American Foursquare,
Bungalow, and Queen Anne architecture can be found throughout the neighborhood. While there
are examples of well maintained and restored properties, there are many homes that have
suffered from a loss of historic character which has been a cause for concern for the remaining
homeowners. For example, below are three successive properties that exhibit a significant degree
of alterations to their porches. Porches are considered an integral element of traditional
architecture and can radically detract from the overall appearance of the neighborhood and
streetscape when altered inappropriately.
83
51
10 13 18
7 2 4
0
20
40
60
80
100
Nu
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Land Use Category
Middle Village Neighborhoood Existing Land Use
Single Family
Two-Family
Multi-Family
Mixed-Use
Commercial
Institutional
Parking Lot
Vacant Land
7
Demographic data
obtained from the
U.S.Census Bureau
was collected to
better understand
the population living
in the neighborhood.
Middle Village is part
of Census Block
Group 6 and Census
Tract 5 but both
levels of aggregation
do not match the
neighborhood
boundary exactly but
is the best available data to accurately represent the neighborhood profile.A map showing the
distribution of each level of aggregation can be found below.
Demographic Data Aggregation
Age
The population living in Census Tract 5, Block Group 6 is younger than the average resident of the
City of Oshkosh according to 2010 Census data. The median age of residents within Middle Village
was 24.7 compared to the City of Oshkosh overall,which was 33.5.
Income
According to the 2010 Census,the median household income for Census Tract 5, Block Group 6
was $21,339 compared to the City of Oshkosh overall,which was $43,203.
Neighborhood Demographic Profile
Block Group 6 Census Tract 5
City of
Oshkosh
PEOPLE
Population 944 6,131 66,083
Male 52.01%3,296 51.2%
Female 47.99%2,835 48.8%
Average Household Size 2.33 2.21 2.24
Median Age 24.7 24.9 33.5
Median Income $21,339 $27,830 $43,203
Population Density per sq. mile 3,921 6,413 2,483
RACE
White 83.9%90.2%90.5%
African American 4.8%3.0%3.1%
American Indian or Alaska Native 1.4%0.9%0.8%
Asian 3.4%2.9%3.2%
Other*6.5%3.0%2.4%
Source: US Census, 2010
*Includes Some Other Race Alone or 2+ Races in combination.
Census Tract 5
Block Group 6
Middle Village
Legend
8
Housing
Based on current City parcel data the neighborhood housing stock is 70.4%rental.The graph
below compares owner occupied parcels within Middle Village to the City of Oshkosh as a whole.
The City of Oshkosh overall has experienced a 3% decline in homeownership over the last nine
years compared to the Middle Village neighborhood which has experienced a 12% decline.
Comparison of Owner-Occupied Parcels 2005-2013
Housing data obtained from the City of Oshkosh Assessor’s Division was averaged to compare the
existing housing stock in Middle Village to the City of Oshkosh overall. Typically due to their size,
affordability, and proximity to the university,homes are purchased by investors for student
housing. Additionally, should the University of Wisconsin –Oshkosh enrollment continue to
expand, the demand for student housing will also, leading to additional conversion concerns.
Efforts to increase housing densities near the University will be needed to alleviate the pressure
on surrounding neighborhoods, such as Middle Village.
Average Housing Stock Comparison
Middle Village City of Oshkosh
Size 1,950 sq. ft.1,544 sq. ft.
Bedrooms 3.8 3
Bathrooms 2 2
Year Built 1908 2002
Grade*C-C
Condition**Below Average Average
Total Dwelling Units 321 20,281
Owner Occupied 29.6%74.1%
Renter Occupied 70.4%25.6%
Assessed Value $94,556.55 $121,994
*Grade is the quality of architecture of the building.
**Condition is how well maintained the home is for its age.
Source: City of Oshkosh
Source: City of Oshkosh Assessors Division, 2013
9
Furthermore, even though there are crime watch efforts in place and they have been effective,
the perception of the neighborhood as an unsafe place persists.Between 2009 and 2013 there
was an overall decline in police calls for service within Middle Village.The graph below does show
a spike in calls during 2012,which has been attributed to residents actively working with the
Oshkosh Police Department to address various problem properties within the neighborhood .
Police Calls For Service in Middle Village*
A summary of calls by event type from 2009-2013 is included below.The data suggests that there
were more person vs. person crimes (battery, domestics, robbery, sex offenses, harassment, etc)
than property crimes (damage to property, theft, auto theft, burglary). However, there were a
large amount of assist calls and what is classified as crime prevention calls (suspicious
person/vehicle/situation, building checks, open doors, etc) which could be a result of proactive
crime watch efforts by the neighborhood association and resident’s willingness to report
suspicious activity. A map showing the distribution of resident initiated police calls within the
neighborhood and trends in each event type can be found in Appendix E on page 41.
Summary of Calls by Event Type 2009-2013 in Middle Village*
* Includes both Field Initiated and Dispatched calls for service
* Includes both Field Initiated and Dispatched calls for service
10
During the summer of 2012, staff from the Planning Services
Division completed a neighborhood assessment to better
understand existing conditions within Middle Village. Blight
indicators such as peeling paint,presence of junk and debris,
overgrown landscaping,vehicles parking on lawns,and
boarded up windows were collected on a parcel by parcel
basis.A total of
537 blight
indicators were
identified during
the neighborhood
assessment.A map showing the distribution of blight
indicators within the neighborhood can be found in
Appendix C on page 36. The neighborhood assessment
will be an important baseline measure to track the
success of future programming in the neighborhood.
Blight indicators were next categorized based on the type of programming necessary to address
existing conditions within the neighborhood, as shown in the graph below.“Curb Appeal” Projects
are defined as minimal exterior property maintenance improvements such as overgrown
landscaping, broken or rusty porch railings, torn awnings or screens and peeling paint on steps or
porches. Owner/Rental Rehab projects are those that require a larger investment to rectify, such
as peeling siding or trim paint, failing roof or siding, cracked foundations, and mold.New
Construction projects include unpaved driveways, failing garages and heaving/crumbling
walkways. Finally, Infrastructure Improvements are those located in the public right of way such
as the lack of curbing, gravel driveway aprons and cracked/heaving public sidewalks.
Neighborhood Blight Indicators by ProgramType
The City of Oshkosh and other local agencies
currently have housing programs to address
many of the indicators identified during the
neighborhood assessment but funding is
limited and requires applicants to meet
federal income requirements.Additional
housing programs are currently being
developed to “fill the gap” for homeowners
who do not meet the federal income
requirements but desire to improve their
property.Source: Middle Village Neighborhood Assessment, 2012
11
While there are real concerns within the neighborhood, a focus solely on highlighting these
problems can often define the neighborhood by its negatives and reinforce a negative image.
Efforts at revitalization have to recognize and build around strengths and assets.
One of the first efforts taken by residents within Middle Village to change their image was the
creation of a recognized neighborhood association. In 2010, a core group of residents built on an
existing neighborhood watch and formed around
the need for park space in the neighborhood. A
petition was circulated and residents approached
the Parks Advisory Board, resulting in the mapping
of needed park space in the central city, being
officially planned for in the Park and Open Space
Plan,approved October 25, 2011.The City’s recent
acquisition of property located at the corner of
Franklin Street and Ida Avenue has created the
opportunity to develop park space (pictured left).
Residents have begun working on concept plans for
the lot which they currently call “Village Green”.
In 2011, the neighborhood association started hosting monthly neighborhood walks in partnership
with the Oshkosh Police Department and Team Policing. These walks resulted in litter pickups and
a reduction in drug activity. It also led to relationships between residents and partnerships with
organizations such as NeighborWorks for organized Dumpster Days and Habitat for Humanity for a
volunteer-led beautification event.Also, in 2012 residents and the Oshkosh Police Department
participated in the Everyday Heroes in Action Challenge to assist with the removal of a garage and
tree.
Since 2011,the neighborhood association has hosted three major block parties. Additionally, the
neighborhood association created Project Safe Passage in response to challenges with the
Downtown Pub Crawl resulting in a more positive interaction with participants which has limited
property damage previously experienced by the event.The efforts of the neighborhood
association have brought about the momentum necessary to complete the neighborhood planning
process.
Additionally, Middle Village has many locational advantages and is one of the most walkable
neighborhoods in Oshkosh. The neighborhood is bordered by Downtown Oshkosh which provides
access to shopping, restaurants, and events. It is also within a ten minute walk to the Leach
Amphitheater;the Oshkosh Saturday Farmers Market; the Riverwalk; The University of Wisconsin -
Oshkosh Campus; the bus terminal; and City and County services.According to data obtained
from Walk Score, Middle Village scored 82 out of 100, compared to the City of Oshkosh overall,
which scored 32 out of 100.
“Village Green”–City-owned vacant lot located at
the corner of Franklin Street and Ida Avenue.
12
Developing the Vision for the Future of Middle Village______________________
In April of 2013,residents and property owners were invited to participate in one of two visioning
workshops held at Christ Lutheran Church in Middle Village. A total of 18 residents and landlords
attended the workshops to begin prioritizing information identified by the neighborhood survey ,
conducted in January of 2013.The additional results from the survey can be found in Appendix D
on page 38.
Residents were asked to prioritize three concerns that needed to be addressed.Below is a
summary of the results from the exercise:
Property conditions,
safety/crime,and landlord
involvement were identified
as the top three concerns
facing Middle Village. A safe
place for kids to play,
boarding/rooming houses,
and condition of vacant
homes/properties were also
ranked at the top.Although
it wasn’t identified during
the visioning sessions,
increasing homeownership
was consistently discussed
throughout the planning
process. Residents
recognized the need to
attract new homeowners
with a desire to invest in
the neighborhood’s future.
13
Next,residents and property owners were given the same opportunity to rank the top three assets
they wished to preserve within the neighborhood.Below is a summary of the results from the
exercise:
Proximity to downtown,
friendly neighbors, and
historic character were
identified as the top three
assets within Middle Village.
Walkability, proximity to
amenities/services, and
affordability were also
ranked at the top.
Finally, neighbors were asked to imagine leaving Middle Village for five to ten years and upon their
return what would be their ideal neighborhood look like. Neighbors worked in small groups and
used the survey results and examples from other
communities as a guide to develop a vision
statement. A vision statement was defined as an
ambitious description of what a neighborhood
would like to achieve or accomplish in the future.
It is intended to serve as a clear guide for choosing
current and future courses of action within a
neighborhood. Each small group presented their
vision statement and the suggestions were used
to develop the following:
“The Middle Village Neighborhood is a thriving, progressive community noted for affordable
housing options, architectural styles and the diversity of its residents. Care has been taken to
develop and preserve the historic character of the neighborhood including the park-like nature of
its tree-lined streets. The Middle Village Neighborhood includes well-maintained and attractive
properties and a vibrant and friendly community. This also includes pedestrian-friendly streets and
open space for children to play and neighbors to gather.”
14
Assets and Concerns within Middle Village
Based on the survey results and conversations with residents the chart below was created to
summarize the current assets and concerns within Middle Village.
Assets Concerns
Great location, close to downtown
Proximity to services
Ethnic and economic diversity
Presence of stable institutions like Christ Lutheran
and the Winnebago County Historic Society
Architecture within the Irving & Church/North Main
Street Historic Districts & neighborhood
Affordable housing options
Provides homeownership opportunities for many
income levels
Many examples of well maintained historic homes
High levels of pride and loyalty among the present
homeowners
Socialization among neighbors in parts of
neighborhood
People with leadership skills
Active crime watch group
Walkability –ranked 82 out of 100 by Walkscore.org
Access to cultural activities and events held on Main
Street, the Leach Amphitheater and the Riverwalk
Newly reconstructed streets with terrace trees
A neighborhood association that is actively making
the neighborhood a better place
Suffers from negative perception from people outside
the neighborhood
Criminal activity in certain blocks
Substantial number of rental properties -70%
High rate of foreclosure
Aging housing stock that requires a large investment to
rehabilitate
Substantial number of poorly maintained homes
No safe place for children in the neighborhood to play
Lack of organized groups of neighbors working on
positive activities
Organized activities primarily focused on crime & safety
Rental population is disconnected from neighborhood
activities
Need for greater institutional, business, landlord, and
tenant involvement
Some streets are in need of reconstruction & modern
amenities
Homeownership rates are declining and long term
residents are leaving
Lack of street lighting causes residents to retreat to
their homes at night
15
Plan Development
In May of 2013, residents began meeting bi-weekly to start drafting elements of their
neighborhood plan.Using the concerns and assets found on the previous pages,residents
categorized the list into four priority areas:Community Building, Public Infrastructure, Safety and
Housing. Next, residents were asked to identify goals the Middle Village residents and property
owners,City of Oshkosh, and future partners could work towards over the next three to five years.
A total of twenty one goals were developed and are listed below.
Community Building
1. Build a sense of community and pride.
2. Improve communication within the Middle Village neighborhood and with other neighborhood
associations.
3. Partner with neighborhood businesses.
4. Partner with UWO to address neighborhood concerns.
Public Infrastructure
1. Calm traffic on neighborhood streets.
2. Improve visibility at intersections.
3. Improve pedestrian safety.
4. Provide public green space/park space.
5. Increase streetscaping.
6. Implement green infrastructure, where possible.
Safety
1. Improve personal safety for residents and visitors.
2. Create safe gathering spaces for the neighborhood.
3. Develop solutions to provide pedestrian access in all seasons and weather conditions.
4. Address safety issues related to domestic pets.
5. Improve lighting in the neighborhood.
Housing
1. Increase maintenance levels in the neighborhood.
2. Take steps to encourage higher-quality housing.
4. Increase homeownership in the neighborhood.
5. Encourage landlord involvement in the neighborhood.
6. Encourage tenant involvement in the neighborhood.
Once the goals were finalized, objectives –which have measurable elements that mark progress
toward its intended goal –were proposed, discussed, and agreed upon by those in attendance.
16
Community Building
Currently, there is a disconnect between Middle Village neighborhood residents and existing
programs and organizations to assist with neighborhood activities.The community building goals
and objectives were developed to strengthen the quality of life and relationships between
residents, business owners,and landlords within the neighborhood.Additionally,this section has
identified the need to develop strategies for residents to become more connected and engaged in
their community.The philosophy is that a person who knows their neighbor on a first name basis
is more likely to help their neighbors when needed.Due to the transient nature of the
neighborhood it will be important for long term residents to educate new residents on the
expectations of the neighborhood in a manner that benefits everyone who resides there.
Top Recommendations:
Develop marketing and “welcome packet” materials in conjunction with City of Oshkosh
Neighborhood Organizing Program.
Work with the Community Development Department to develop funding to install
informational kiosks at neighborhood green spaces.
MVNA and Community Development should work together to install neighborhood
identification signage by the end of 2014.
MVNA should explore business sponsorship and fundraising opportunities to continue
neighborhood association activities.
GOAL 1. BUILD A SENSE OF COMMUNITY AND PRIDE.
Implementation Lead(s)
Objective 1:Hold at least two (2) social events and two (2) safety events per
year.
MVNA/OPD
Objective 2:Install visual identity symbols through wayfinding and/or signage
(e.g. murals, signs, banners, flags, etc.).
MVNA/Community
Development
Objective 3:Diversify existing neighborhood association “block walk,” which
currently includes communicating/socializing with neighbors, litter pickup and
property maintenance observations.
MVNA/OPD
Objective 4:Develop a relationship with the Farmers Market and request an
extension from Main Street to Division Street where residents could showcase
their neighborhood and products.
MVNA/Farmers Market
Objective 5:Develop a “good neighbor” contest/award.MVNA/Community
Development
Objective 6:Develop fundraising campaign to help fund neighborhood
association activities.
MVNA/Community
Development
17
GOAL 2. IMPROVE COMMUNICATION WITHIN THE MIDDLE VILLAGE NEIGHBORHOOD AND WITH
OTHER NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATIONS.
Implementation Lead(s)
Objective 1:Develop “welcome packet” for new neighbors.MVNA
Objective 2:Announce neighborhood news/milestones through various
platforms including Facebook, email and newsletters.
MVNA
Objective 3:Recruit intern to perform neighborhood outreach.MVNA
Objective 4:Create static neighborhood website with two (2)neighborhood
contacts.
MVNA/UWO Business Success
Center
Objective 5:Install informational kiosks at neighborhood green spaces to keep
residents informed of upcoming events.
MVNA/Community
Development
GOAL 3. PARTNER WITH NEIGHBORHOOD BUSINESSES.
Implementation Lead(s)
Objective 1:Continue working with Growing Seeds of Change Community Garden
to donate produce to neighborhood businesses.
MVNA
Objective 2:Request a Middle Village movie night at Time Cinema.MVNA
Objective 3:Connect with 3-5 neighborhood businesses per year.MVNA/N. Main Street BID
GOAL 4. PARTNER WITH UWO TO ADDRESS NEIGHBORHOOD CONCERNS.
Implementation Lead(s)
Objective 1:Develop “welcome packet” for student renters to welcome them to
the neighborhood and to inform them about the neighborhood association,
garbage/recycling, snowplowing, etc.
MVNA/UWO/Community
Development
Objective 2:Request to have neighborhood involved with UWO committees.MVNA/UWO
18
Public Infrastructure
The public infrastructure goals and objectives were developed to reduce the amount of litter and
garbage throughout the neighborhood, increase pedestrian safety by reducing traffic speeds,
improve visibility at intersections, add additional mid-block lighting, and improve the streetscape
within the neighborhood. Improvements to the look and feel of the neighborhood will help create
a greater sense of pride for residents and property owners and improve the image of the
neighborhood.
Top Recommendations:
Work with the City of Oshkosh –Transportation Department and the Traffic Review
Advisory Board to address concerns relating to on-street parking and the addition of
crosswalks.
Work with Planning Services Division to develop proposals and plans for the vacant lots
located within the neighborhood.
Further develop the proposal submitted for installing “art benches” and “mini free
libraries” to identify suitable locations on private and public property.
Develop a working relationship with the City of Oshkosh-Sustainability Advisory Board to
develop resources and programming that would assist with installation of green
infrastructure.
GOAL 1. CALM TRAFFIC ON NEIGHBORHOOD STREETS.
Implementation Lead(s)
Objective 1:Install traffic calming measures such as, traffic circles, speed tables or
speed humps and bump outs where feasible.
MVNA/Public Works
GOAL 2. IMPROVE VISIBILITY AT INTERSECTIONS.
Implementation Lead(s)
Objective 1:Increase the distance that parking is allowed from the intersection of
W.Irving Avenue & Frederick Street.
MVNA/Traffic Advisory Board
Objective 2:Address overgrown landscaping located within the vision triangle at
intersections.
MVNA/Community
Development
GOAL 3. IMPROVE PEDESTRIAN SAFETY.
Implementation Lead(s)
Objective 1:Provide highly visible crosswalk markings at all intersections.Traffic Advisory Board
19
GOAL 4. PROVIDE PUBLIC GREEN SPACE/PARK SPACE.
Implementation Lead(s)
Objective 1:Develop public pocket park with play area at the corner of Franklin
Street & Ida Avenue.
MVNA/Community
Development/Parks/RDA
Objective 2:Install community garden at the corner of Central Street & W.
Parkway Avenue.
MVNA/Community
Development/RDA
GOAL 5. INCREASE STREETSCAPING.
Implementation Lead(s)
Objective 1:Encourage planting of terrace trees.MVNA/Forestry
Objective 2:Explore undergrounding overhead utilities.Public Works
Objective 3:Install historically consistent decorative street lighting when new
streets go in.
Public Works
Objective 4:Develop plan for a trail of “art benches” and “mini free libraries”MVNA
GOAL 6. IMPLEMENT GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE, WHERE POSSIBLE.
Implementation Lead(s)
Objective 1:Incentivize the use of rain gardens & rain barrels.Community
Development/SAB/Storm
Water Utility
Objective 2:Investigate the feasibility of pervious driveways, pathways and
patios.
Community Development/SAB
Objective 3:Install bioswales & berms to help with storm water runoff.Public Works
Objective 4:Utilize solar energy to supply additional lighting where it makes
sense.
Community
Development/SAB/Public
Works/Transportation
20
Safety
The feeling of safety and security has a significant impact on the quality of life of residents and
their families in any neighborhood.The Middle Village neighborhood is located between the
University of Wisconsin –Oshkosh and North Main Street and has become a pass through for
students going back and forth. The consumption of alcohol can be directly linked to a wide
spectrum of problems from unruly behavior to minor and major crimes in the neighborhood. To
address these safety concerns and others identified by residents, the neighborhood association
will need to work closely with various City Departments, business owners, and the University of
Wisconsin –Oshkosh.
Top Recommendations:
Neighborhood Association should work with the Oshkosh P olice Department to re-
establish a Neighborhood Watch or Safety Committee within Middle Village.
A “Project Porch Light”program should be created to address concerns resulting from the
elimination of some mid-block lighting throughout the neighborhood.
Proactively enforce the snow removal policy within the neighborhood and consider
increasing the fine for Middle Village property owners who repeatedly require City
interventions.
Develop a city-wide policy that considers criminal activity in an area before eliminating
mid-block lighting.
GOAL 1. IMPROVE PERSONAL SAFETY FOR RESIDENTS AND VISITORS.
Implementation Lead(s)
Objective 1:Re-establish Neighborhood Watch MVNA/OPD
Objective 2:Continue to work with Oshkosh Police Department to enhance their
relationship with the neighborhood.
MVNA/OPD
Objective 3:Work closely with University of Wisconsin –Oshkosh to produce
educational materials relating to binge drinking.
MVNA/UWO
Objective 4:Proactively address police calls for service and issues associated with
boarding/rooming houses & high rental concentration in the neighborhood.
OPD/Community Development
Objective 5:Conduct a Quality of Life Analysis to better understand the indicators
that influence safety in the neighborhood.
Community Development
GOAL 2. CREATE SAFE GATHERING SPACES FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD.
Implementation Lead(s)
Objective 1:Work with churches to establish a strong partnership and
neighborhood center.
MVNA
21
GOAL 3. DEVELOP SOLUTIONS TO PROVIDE PEDESTRIAN ACCESS IN ALL SEASONS AND WEATHER
CONDITIONS.
Implementation Lead(s)
Objective 1:Create a resource list of neighbors willing to assist others with snow
removal, lawn care, or simple maintenance.
MVNA
Objective 2:Work with City of Oshkosh Streets Division to ensure snow removal
ordinance is strongly enforced within neighborhood.
Public Works/MVNA
Objective 3:Investigate and develop a policy for the removal of snow
accumulation from plowing during the winter.
Public Works
GOAL 4. ADDRESS SAFETY ISSUES RELATED TO DOMESTIC PETS.
Implementation Lead(s)
Objective 1:Educate homeowners/renters on pet waste and leash ordinances in
welcome packets.
MVNA/City Clerk/Winnebago
County Health
GOAL 5. IMPROVE LIGHTING IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD.
Implementation Lead(s)
Objective 1:Turn on public street lights that have been shut off within the
neighborhood.
MVNA/Common Council/City
Manager/Transportation
Objective 2:Develop Project Porch Light Program to include funding for 20
additional lighting sources for property owners.
Community
Development/MVNA
Objective 3:Install historically consistent decorative street lighting when new
streets go in.
Public Works
22
Housing
The neighborhood housing stock is currently 29.6% owner occupied and is continuing to trend
away from homeownership. Most of the homes in Middle Village are fast approaching or greater
than a century old. They have slowly over time, to varying degrees,been altered to suit current
residents. Typically due to their size, affordability, and proximity to the university ,homes are
purchased by investors for student housing. Over time, this has begun to erode the historic
character of the neighborhood and has been a cause for concern for the remaining homeowners.
The goals and objectives that follow were developed to address these concerns.
Top Recommendations
The City of Oshkosh will continue to develop relationships with area businesses and
institutions willing to invest in a First-Time Homebuyer Program within priority
neighborhoods such as Middle Village.
When properties go into foreclosure or are put on the market the City of Oshkosh and
other partners should tour them to determine if they are suitable for rehabilitation and
marketing for future homeowners.
The City of Oshkosh will work with property owners to take advantage of State and Federal
Historic Tax Credits and develop additional programming to incentivize quality
rehabilitation of historic homes.
Engage property owners, residents, and business owners in a block-level program to
address maintenance issues.
The Historic Plaque Program should be used to incentivize property owners who maintain
their historic properties. A walking tour can be developed to market the neighborhood
and create a sense of pride among residents and owners within the neighborhood.
GOAL 1. INCREASE PROPERTY MAINTENANCE LEVELS IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD.
Implementation Lead(s)
Objective 1:Encourage Oshkosh Habitat for Humanity, NeighborWorks Badgerland
and similar organizations to rehabilitate homes within the neighborhood.
Community Development
Objective 2:Develop minimum maintenance checklist to aid in the development of
a neighborhood “friendly reminder” in welcome basket.
Community Development
Objective 3:Utilize proactive code enforcement on properties with ongoing code
violations.
Community Development
Objective 4:Compile list of neighborhood handymen willing to assist neighbors in
need of lawn care or simple maintenance.
MVNA
Objective 5:Work with FVTC Horticulture Program to identify property owners
interested in improving their landscaping.
Community
Development/MVNA/FVTC
Objective 6:Develop programming to assist with exterior curb appeal projects.Community Development
23
GOAL 2. TAKE STEPS TO ENCOURAGE HIGHER-QUALITY HOUSING.
Implementation Lead(s)
Objective 1:Recognize property owners who rehabilitate/keep up their properties.MVNA/Community
Development
Objective 2:Develop programming to aid in the construction of garages and
driveways.
Community Development
Objective 3:Develop programming to assist with lead screening and abatement Community Development
Objective 4:Develop educational materials and supporting programming that
encourage energy efficient updates to reduce expenses associated with older
homes, making them more attractive to homeowners.
Community
Development/SAB
Objective 5:Incentivize homeowners and investment property owners willing to
restore the historic integrity of their home that has been lost due to inappropriate
alterations.
Community Development
Objective 6:Eliminate permanent “for rent” signage in the neighborhood.Community Development
GOAL 3. INCREASE HOMEOWNERSHIP RATE IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Implementation Lead(s)
Objective 1:Encourage Oshkosh Habitat for Humanity, NeighborWorks
Badgerland and similar organizations to use vacant lots for their new home.
Community Development
Objective 2:Identify investment owners willing to sell their properties and
approach partners willing to rehab and convert them back to owner occupied
dwellings.
MVNA/Community
Development
Objective 3:Install attractive pedestrian amenities in the neighborhood
(decorative benches, free libraries, green space, neighborhood garden, etc.).
Community
Development/MVNA
Objective 4:Explore the purchase of foreclosures to rehabilitate and sell to
homeowners.
Community Development
Objective 5:Work with local realtors to host a neighborhood tour of homes.MVNA
Objective 6:Create neighborhood marketing pieces for landlords, realtors and
UW-Oshkosh.
MVNA
Objective 7:Identify programming to assist residents wanting to become
homeowners that do not qualify for conventional financing.
Community Development
GOAL 4. ENCOURAGE LANDLORD INVOLVEMENT IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD.
Implementation Lead(s)
Objective 1:Hold landlord meeting with neighborhood association to find out
how to collaborate to improve the neighborhood.
MVNA/Community
Development
Objective 2:Develop block-level curb appeal program for rental properties and
way to recognize participants.
MVNA/Community
Development
24
Objective 3:Create contact list for neighborhood landlords to help distribute
information
MVNA/Community
Development
GOAL 5. ENCOURAGE TENANT INVOLVEMENT IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD.
Implementation Lead(s)
Objective 1:Hold tenant meeting to identify needs and educate them on their
rights and responsibilities.
MVNA/Community
Development
Objective 2:Develop materials for “welcome packet” to address tenant rights and
responsibilities.
MVNA/Community
Development
Appendix A
Neighborhood Projects
415 411
651
647
635
410418
603
609
617
603
606
627
621
238 639
654
650
642
636
630
624
618
612
608
602
515
322
318
302
531
422
428
421
415
119
212
217 209 203
687
683
667
659
651
645
222
234
223
537
529
513
511
609
641
653
663
665
667
671
571
563
547
537
465
110
130
538
532
526
522
694
690688
686
19
668
664
656
625
620
600
522
530
544
558
566
570
17
425
107
121
125
131
135
141
143
203
215
420
525
531
705 18 14 10 2210
315
417
409
582
240
639
310 304 228242238232 212216 206 202 114 106 102116
22A704
665A
64
4
66
4
A
66
8
A
67
5
A
693
69
3
A
-6
8
3
D
68
3
675
629
633
63
3
A
637
641
645
675
523
62
7
A
119A
63
9
A
64
5
A
66
7
A
687A
63
9
A
63
1
A
63
7
A
605
611
619
625
631
637
641
647
651
661
669
673
67
3
A
679
685
68
5
A
691
69
1
A
612
616
622A
622
619
613
61
3
A
687
683
677
673
667
665
659
655
649
645
690
686
680
676
670
668
660
654
650
644
638
235 231A231
673
677
655
644
648
658
666
670
674
680
115 109
686
680
676
67
0
A
670
664
660
654
648
644
638
234B
234C 52
9
A
534
138
210
204
535
525
521
518
519
607
414418
707
701
414
415 413 405405A 621
413 409
543
535
515
515A
507
412
412A
540
534
528
522
506
463
461
584
586
578
576
70
3
70
1
545
565
555
11
435
647A
639
641
641A
665
679
649
647645
633
677675
667669671673
651653655657659661663
635637639641643
521519519A
517
515B 515
513
511
697695693691
626
622
616
612
608
114
213
209
543
103111113
544
206A
61
1
A
114A
616A
61
6
B
628
622
616
612
218 212
629
621
617
611
206 202
54
4
A 113A 111A 103A119
202A 112 108
695
611609607605
627625623621619617615613
640
642A
630A
617A
612A
534A
528A
232A 102A
674A
515A
611A 612A
501
579
581
500
532
534
538
542
544A
544B
503505
502
660A
209A 203A
628 235
665
669
673
654
118
68
3
661
679
630
651
20
623
546
507
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
Middle Village Neighborhood ProjectsMiddle Village Neighborhood Projects
CHURCH AVENUE
W PARKWAY AVENUE
JA
C
K
S
O
N
S
T
R
E
E
T
W IRVING AVENUE
N
M
A
I
N
S
T
R
E
E
T
IDA AVENUE
FR
A
N
K
L
I
N
S
T
R
E
E
T
FR
E
D
E
R
I
C
K
S
T
R
E
E
T
CE
N
T
R
A
L
S
T
R
E
E
T
DI
V
I
S
I
O
N
S
T
R
E
E
T
Note: Projects as of March 2013
Garbage Day Changed BBQ n' Blues Slam Neighborhood BreakfastPublic Safty Meetings Monthly Neighborhood WalksNational Night Out EventNeighborhood SurveyProject Safe Passage for PubCrawlersNeighborhood Rummage Sale Neighborhood Cleanup Days
Neighborhood Association ProjectsMiddle Village Property Assessment CardsNeighborhood Survey and AnalysisTerrace Tree Plantings Blight Elimination Event - 118 W ParkwayNeighborhood Planning MeetingNeighborhood Cleanup Event with Habitat for Humanity Street Reconstruction Targeted Mailing for Owner Occupied Rehab ProgramDumpster Days with NeighborWorks
Planning Services Division Projects
Blight Elimination/Property Acquisition
Owner Occupied Rehabs (2011-Present)
Terrace Tree Plantings
Good NEIGHBOR Grant Recipients )
Planned Street Reconstruction
Completed Street Reconstruction
25
26
Middle Village Neighborhood Timeline:
Oct 2010 -MVNA forms and begin meetings, neighbors organize petition for neighborhood park space,
letters and attendance to Parks Board
Fall of 2010 through 2013 -MVNA Monthly Neighborhood Walks with OPD which served as a catalyst for
reducing drug and crime activity, as well as observations of property condition issues –this effort continued
the de facto Neighborhood Watch
Fall of 2010 through 2013 -Monthly and Quarterly Neighborhood Meetings
May 2011 -MVNA Fundraiser rummage sale at Christ Lutheran
Summer 2011 -MVNA fundraiser bake sale at Farmer’s Market
August 2011 -National Night Out Block Party –over 100 in attendance
Fall 2011 -MVNA recommends a resident for a NeighborWorks homeownership consult
November 2011 -MVNA submits boundaries, purpose and bylaws and is formally recognized as a
neighborhood in the city
Fall 2012 -Fall Cleanup Dumpster Day, financial sponsor NeighborWorks –see slides
(http://www.wisconsinoutdoorfun.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Site=U0&Date=20111105&Category=OSH01
&ArtNo=111050806&Ref=PH)
February 2012 -Everyday Heroes in Action –Dumpster Cleanup of Central Ave Property, Dumpster paid for
by NeighborWorks
Summer 2012 -Detailed inventory of neighborhood housing condition and WHEDA Blight Elimination
Grant applied for (awarded in the fall 2012)
Summer 2012 -Barbeque n Blues Block Party –over 50 people participating, partially funded by
NeighborWorks
Summer 2012 -The Exiters Youth Bicycle Group informally forms
Summer 2012 -Youth Planting Project –seeds and pots
Summer 2012 -Four (4) Mini Grant projects, NeighborWorks administered
Fall 2012 -Habitat for Humanity and MVNA Fall Blitz landscape and small repair resulting in neighbors and
residents working together on 4 properties
Fall 2012 -Demolition of 628 Franklin by owner
Fall 2012 -Fall Fest for Kids –apple bobbing and costume gathering
December 2012 -Demolition of 235 Ida, 654 Frederick and 118 W Parkway –City of Oshkosh
27
2012 –2013 -Project Safe Passage (during Pub Crawl) twice a year by MVNA
2012 -2013 -MVNA participates in NeighborWorks Resident Leadership Committee
January 2013 -Survey of neighborhood residents, MVNA and intern in partnership with
Planning Services
Spring 2013 -Neighbors organize meetings regarding concentration of sex offenders, meet with
representatives, suggest possible redistribution of the burden
Spring 2013 -Visioning Sessions (2) at Christ Lutheran
Summer and Fall 2013 -MV Action Planning Work Group Committee biweekly and monthly meetings to
develop Goals and Objectives
Summer 2013 -Christ Lutheran began offering monthly neighborhood meet and greet breakfast
Summer 2013 -Three (3) Mini-Grant projects, NeighborWorks administered
September 2013 -Change of Garbage Collection Day
Fall 2013 -MVNA meets with Dept of Public Works to develop desired street reconstruction
January 1, 2014 -MVNA Celebration and Open House for review of goals and objectives and concept
planning for vacant lots on Ida and Parkway
Jan 4, 2014 -MVNA meets with Planning Services to discuss and review implementation leads for part of
the draft plan
January 2014 -Submission of suggested planning documentation for final draft of neighborhood plan,
provide Planning with numerous photos and documentation regarding background documentation
Appendix B
Neighborhood Maps
N MAIN ST
N MAIN ST
JACKSON ST
JACKSON ST
DIVISION ST
DIVISION ST
JEFFERSON ST
JEFFERSON ST
W IRVING AVEW IRVING AVE
ALGOMA BLVD
ALGOMA BLVDHIGH AVE
HIGH AVE
IDA AVEIDA AVE
FRANKLIN ST
FRANKLIN ST
CENTRAL ST
CENTRAL ST
FREDERICK ST
FREDERICK ST
W PARKWAY AVEW PARKWAY AVE
CHURCH AVE
CHURCH AVE
FULTON AVEFULTON AVE
UNION AVEUNION AVE
E IRVING AVEE IRVING AVE
WRIGHT ST
WRIGHT ST
MERRITT AVEMERRITT AVE
PEARL AVE
PEARL AVE
AMHERST AVEAMHERST AVE
IVY PLIVY PL
DIVISION ST
DIVISION ST
CENTRAL ST
CENTRAL ST
CENTRAL ST
CENTRAL ST
FRANKLIN ST
FRANKLIN ST
FREDERICK ST
FREDERICK ST
CHURCH AVE
CHURCH AVE
Prepared by: City of Oshkosh, WI
Printing Date: 11/8/2013
1 in = 300 ft
1 in = 0.06 mi¯Middle Village Neighborhood BoundaryMiddle Village Neighborhood Boundary
The City of Oshkosh creates and maintains GIS maps and data for its own use. They may show theapproximate relative location of property, boundaries and other feature from a variety of sources.These map(s)/datasets are provided for information purposes only and may not be sufficient orappropriate for legal, engineering, or surveying purposes. They are provided “AS-IS” withoutwarranties of any kind and the City of Oshkosh assumes no liability for use or misuse.
Middle VillageNeighborhood Association Boundary
28
N MAIN ST
N MAIN ST
JACKSON ST
JACKSON ST
DIVISION ST
DIVISION ST
JEFFERSON ST
JEFFERSON ST
W IRVING AVEW IRVING AVE
ALGOMA BLVD
ALGOMA BLVDHIGH AVE
HIGH AVE
IDA AVEIDA AVE
FRANKLIN ST
FRANKLIN ST
CENTRAL ST
CENTRAL ST
FREDERICK ST
FREDERICK ST
W PARKWAY AVEW PARKWAY AVE
CHURCH AVE
CHURCH AVE
FULTON AVEFULTON AVE
UNION AVEUNION AVE
E IRVING AVEE IRVING AVE
WRIGHT ST
WRIGHT ST
MERRITT AVEMERRITT AVE
PEARL AVE
PEARL AVE
AMHERST AVEAMHERST AVE
IVY PLIVY PL
DIVISION ST
DIVISION ST
CENTRAL ST
CENTRAL ST
CENTRAL ST
CENTRAL ST
FRANKLIN ST
FRANKLIN ST
FREDERICK ST
FREDERICK ST
CHURCH AVE
CHURCH AVE
Prepared by: City of Oshkosh, WI
Printing Date: 11/8/2013
1 in = 300 ft
1 in = 0.06 mi¯Middle Village NeighborhoodMiddle Village NeighborhoodExisting Land UseExisting Land Use
The City of Oshkosh creates and maintains GIS maps and data for its own use. They may show theapproximate relative location of property, boundaries and other feature from a variety of sources.These map(s)/datasets are provided for information purposes only and may not be sufficient orappropriate for legal, engineering, or surveying purposes. They are provided “AS-IS” withoutwarranties of any kind and the City of Oshkosh assumes no liability for use or misuse.
Existing Land Use
SINGLE-FAMILY
TWO-FAMILY
MULTI-FAMILY
COMMERCIAL
INDUSTRIAL
MIXED USE
GOVERNMENT
INSTITUTIONAL
SCHOOL
PARKING LOT
INFILL RESIDENTIAL
VACANT LAND
Middle VillageNeighborhood Association Boundary
29
C-3
R-2PD C-3
C-3DO
R-2PD
R-5
R-5
C-3PD
M-2
C-3PD
C-3
N MAIN ST
N MAIN ST
JACKSON ST
JACKSON ST
DIVISION ST
DIVISION ST
JEFFERSON ST
JEFFERSON ST
W IRVING AVEW IRVING AVE
ALGOMA BLVD
ALGOMA BLVDHIGH AVE
HIGH AVE
IDA AVEIDA AVE
FRANKLIN ST
FRANKLIN ST
CENTRAL ST
CENTRAL ST
FREDERICK ST
FREDERICK ST
W PARKWAY AVEW PARKWAY AVE
CHURCH AVE
CHURCH AVE
FULTON AVEFULTON AVE
UNION AVEUNION AVE
E IRVING AVEE IRVING AVE
WRIGHT ST
WRIGHT ST
MERRITT AVEMERRITT AVE
AMHERST AVEAMHERST AVE
IVY PLIVY PL
DIVISION ST
DIVISION ST
CENTRAL ST
CENTRAL ST
CENTRAL ST
CENTRAL ST
FRANKLIN ST
FRANKLIN ST
FREDERICK ST
FREDERICK ST
CHURCH AVE
CHURCH AVE
Prepared by: City of Oshkosh, WI
Printing Date: 11/8/2013
1 in = 300 ft
1 in = 0.06 mi¯Middle Village NeighborhoodMiddle Village NeighborhoodExisting ZoningExisting Zoning
The City of Oshkosh creates and maintains GIS maps and data for its own use. They may show theapproximate relative location of property, boundaries and other feature from a variety of sources.These map(s)/datasets are provided for information purposes only and may not be sufficient orappropriate for legal, engineering, or surveying purposes. They are provided “AS-IS” withoutwarranties of any kind and the City of Oshkosh assumes no liability for use or misuse.
Existing Zoning
R-2PD
R-5
C-2
C-2PD
C-3
C-3DO
C-3PD
M-2
Middle VillageNeighborhood Association Boundary
30
N MAIN ST
N MAIN ST
JACKSON ST
JACKSON ST
DIVISION ST
DIVISION ST
CHURCH AVE
CHURCH AVE
W IRVING AVEW IRVING AVE
IDA AVEIDA AVE
FRANKLIN ST
FRANKLIN ST
JEFFERSON ST
JEFFERSON ST
CENTRAL ST
CENTRAL ST
FREDERICK ST
FREDERICK ST
ALGOMA BLVD
ALGOMA BLVD
W PARKWAY AVEW PARKWAY AVE
HIGH AVE
HIGH AVE
UNION AVEUNION AVE
E IRVING AVEE IRVING AVE
AMHERST AVEAMHERST AVE
MERRITT AVEMERRITT AVE
E PARKWAY AVEE PARKWAY AVE
DIVISION ST
DIVISION ST
CENTRAL ST
CENTRAL ST
CHURCH AVE
CHURCH AVE
FRANKLIN ST
FRANKLIN ST
CENTRAL ST
CENTRAL ST
FREDERICK ST
FREDERICK ST
Prepared by: City of Oshkosh, WI
Printing Date: 1/3/2014
1 in = 250 ft
1 in = 0.05 mi¯Middle Village NeighborhoodMiddle Village NeighborhoodNon-Owner Occupied ParcelsNon-Owner Occupied Parcels
The City of Oshkosh creates and maintains GIS maps and data for its own use. They may show theapproximate relative location of property, boundaries and other feature from a variety of sources.These map(s)/datasets are provided for information purposes only and may not be sufficient orappropriate for legal, engineering, or surveying purposes. They are provided “AS-IS” withoutwarranties of any kind and the City of Oshkosh assumes no liability for use or misuse.
31
Appendix C
Blight Elimination Grant
&
Kick Off Event
32
Blight Elimination Grant & Kick-off Event
In June of 2012, the City of Oshkosh applied for a grant through the State of Wisconsin Blight
Elimination Program. The purpose of the program is to eliminate blighted and vacant homes to
spur reinvestment within a neighborhood. As part of the grant application process, staff from the
Planning Services Division completed a parcel by parcel inventory to measure existing property
conditions within Middle Village. Blight indicators, such as boarded up windows, overgrown
landscaping, peeling paint, and others were identified. Staff also quantified resident initiated
police calls, issued correction notices, tax delinquency, foreclosures, and occupancy status. Four
properties were identified as meeting the requirements of the program and $60,000 was awarded
to assist with demolition. Three of the four
properties were acquired and slated for
demolition. In December of 2012, residents
gathered to celebrate the demolition of 118 W.
Parkway Avenue which had been vacant for over
five years.The neighborhood assessment will be
used to measure outcomes of investments made
within the neighborhood in the future.The chart
below provides an overview of the data collected
and various maps showing the existing conditions
are found on the pages that follow.
Blight Indicators:537
Tax Delinquent:25
Resident Initiated Police Calls
(2009-2012)
1,235
Non-Owner Occupied Dwellings 101
Dwelling Units 325
Vacant Properties (as of 2012)10
Foreclosures 22
Correction Notices (2007-2012)233
*Data as of June, 2012
118 W Parkway Avenue -Before
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_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
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Number of Parcels: 253Number of Blight Indicators: 545Tax Delinquent Sites: 36Number of Resident Initiated Police Calls: 1316Number of Properties with Correction Notices: 116Number of Rental Properties: 131Number of Vacant Properties: 11Number of Foreclosures: 25
Middle Village Neighborhood AssessmentTax Delinquent as of 2012
Police Calls (2009-2012)
Correction Notice (2007-2012)
Vacant as of 2012
Rental as of 2012
Other Middle Village Properties
Middle Village Neighborhood Boundary
Church Ave
W Parkway Ave
Ida Ave
Ja
c
k
s
o
n
S
t
Fr
a
n
k
l
i
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S
t
Frederick St
Central St
Di
v
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S
t
W Irving Ave
N
M
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¯
Date: June, 2012
Blight Indicators
Legend
_Foreclosed (2006-2012)
Source: City of Oshkosh 33
Appendix D
Neighborhood Survey
34
Neighborhood Survey
In January of 2013, members of the neighborhood association worked with city staff to survey
residents living in Middle Village.The survey asked residents to “Dream Big” and identify assets
they valued and concerns they felt should be addressed within the neighborhood.Two sets of
post cards were mailed with a link to an online survey and members of the neighborhood
association went door to door to collect additional responses.The neighborhood association also
sponsored a gift certificate giveaway as an incentive to fill out the survey. Throughout this effort,
58 responses were collected and the following graphs provide an in-depth look at current resident
perceptions.
The survey was found to represent
opinions of both renters and owners living
within the neighborhood.The survey was
designed to focus solely on resident
opinions. The neighborhood association
and staff discussed surveying investors and
business owners at a later date because
their needs tend to differ from residents
living in the neighborhood.
Approximately 45% have lived in the
neighborhood for over 5 years.Length of
residencey is a key quality of life indicator
when looking at the health of a
neighborhood.If an individual is satisfied
with their environment they are more
likely to stay in their location.
Neighborhoods with high rates of resident
turn over tend to suffer from a lack of
community and every effort should be
taken to promote long term residency
within Middle Village.
35
Neighborliness is another important
quality of life indicator when looking at
the health of a neighborhood.Overall,
the respondents indicated knowing each
other well or somewhat well.Knowing
your neighbors provides a sense of
safety in your surroundings. It is also
much easier to know when someone or
something is out of place.
Of the 58 respondents, 35 were aware
of the association and 23 were not. This
is a huge opportunity for the association
to focus on.Resident engagement will
be a critical component in determining
the future of Middle Village. Every
effort should be taken to fully engage
residents and success is likely to follow.
Twenty-three respondents confirmed
attending events held by the
neighborhood association over the last
two years. Social activities have been
one of the great successes for the
neighborhood association.Continuing
to provide opportunities for residents
to get to know each other will need to
remain a priority.
36
Proximity to downtown, walkability,
and historic character were identified
as the three characteristics most
valued.These were further reinforced
as assets while having conversations
with residents thoughout the planning
process. As a neighborhood, every
effort should be taken to market and
preserve these assets in the future.
When asked what their biggest
concerns were in the neighborhood,
safety/crime, declining property
conditions, and real estate market
conditions were identified. Poor
infrastructure also ranked high,
however, in 2014 the remaining
roads in poor conditon are
scheduled for reconstruction.
Respondents were mixed when
asked if the neighborhood has
gotten better or worse over the last
two years. It will be important to
track this over time to see if efforts
in conjuncition with the plan
improve resident perceptions.
Appendix E
Neighborhood Crime Data
635
603
609
617
603
606
628 235
627
621
238 639
654
650
642
636
630
624
618
612
608
602
515
322
318
302
531
415
119
212
217 209 203
687
683
667
659
651
645
222
234
223
537
529
513
511
609
641
653
663
665
667
671
571
563
547
537
465
110
130
538
532
526
522
694
690688
686
668
664
656
620
600
107
121
125
131
135
141
143
203
215
420
525
531
315 240
639
310 304 228242238232 212216 206 202
665A
64
4
66
8
A
693
69
3
A
-6
8
3
D
68
3
675
629
523
62
8
A
62
7
A
119A
63
9
A
64
5
A
66
7
A
687A
63
9
A
63
1
A
63
7
A
605
611
619
625
631
637
641
647
651
661
669
673
67
3
A
679
685
68
5
A
691
69
1
A
612
616
622A
622
619
613
61
3
A
687
683
677
673
667
665
659
655
649
645
690
686
680
676
670
668
660
654
650
644
638
235 231A231
673
677
655
644
648
654
658
666
670
674
680
115 109
686
680
676
67
0
A
670
664
660
654
648
644
638
234B
234C 52
9
A
534
138
210
204
535
525
521
518
519
607
621
543
535
515
515A
507
540
534
528
522
506
545
565
555
11
639
665
679
649
647645
633
677675
667669671673
651653655657659661663
635637639641643
521519519A
517
515B 515513
511
697695693691
626
622
616
612
608
118 114
213
209
543
103111113
544
206A
61
1
A
114A
616A
61
6
B
628
622
616
612
218 212
629
621
617
611
206 202
54
4
A 113A 111A 103A119
202A 112 108
695
611609607605
627625623621619617615613
640
642A
630A
612A
534A
528A
674A
515A
611A 612A
501
579
581
503505
660A
209A 203A
W IRVING AVE
IDA AVE
FR
A
N
K
L
I
N
S
T
FR
E
D
E
R
I
C
K
S
T
CE
N
T
R
A
L
S
T
JA
C
K
S
O
N
S
T
DI
V
I
S
I
O
N
S
T
W PARKWAY AVE
CHURCH ST
Middle Village Neighborhood Resident Initiated Police Calls2009-2012
Legend
Non-Owner Occupied
Other Middle Village Properties
N
M
A
I
N
S
T
Parcels: 186Blight Indicators: 527Tax Delinquent Sites: 25Resident Initiated Police Calls (2009-2012): 1,235Non-Owner Occupied Properties: 101Dwelling Units: 325Vacant Properties as of 2012: 10Foreclosures: 22Correction Notices (2007-2012): 233 ¯= 1 Resident Initiated Police Call (2007-2012)
37
38
39
40
41