RIVER Moves Forward with Senior Housing Project Amid Snowmobile Access Debates

• Rhinelander approved a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for a senior housing project targeting 55-and-older residents, with 10% of units reserved for veterans according to local reports.
• City officials are evaluating proposals to allow snowmobile access on downtown streets to enhance winter tourism, but concerns include safety, enforcement, and infrastructure wear as reported.
• The senior housing project is expected to create more housing for seniors, freeing up space for younger residents and coordinating with state agencies due to its proximity to natural areas according to local coverage.

Rhinelander has taken a step forward in addressing its aging population's housing needs by approving a new senior housing development off of Boyce Drive. The project includes 48 units, with 10 reserved for veterans, and will use income-based rents through WHEDA credits. The development requires final approval from the city council, with construction expected to begin in May as confirmed by local news.

The senior housing project aligns with national trends in affordable senior housing and is expected to address a growing need in Rhinelander. Mayor Kris Hanus emphasized the importance of providing accessible, single-level living options for seniors, which will also help local families by freeing up housing according to city officials. The developer has coordinated with the Department of Transportation and the Department of Natural Resources to address potential environmental and infrastructure concerns as reported.

Simultaneously, city officials are considering a proposal to allow snowmobiles on downtown streets during the winter season. The initiative aims to improve connectivity between the trail system and the urban core, which could boost winter tourism . However, officials have raised concerns about public safety, enforcement challenges, and road damage risks. A comprehensive plan from the snowmobile club is required before any decision is made .

Will Snowmobile Access Enhance Winter Tourism or Pose Challenges?

Rhinelander is exploring ways to enhance winter tourism by improving snowmobile connectivity to the city's downtown area. A citizen proposed the initiative during a January 13 city council meeting . The snowmobile club supports the proposal but must address issues such as road wear, enforcement difficulties, and safety risks for pedestrians and vehicles .

City officials, including the police chief, have highlighted potential enforcement challenges and the strain on existing resources . The decision could establish a precedent for other communities facing similar decisions about balancing recreation and infrastructure sustainability . While the snowmobile club is working on a formal proposal, city leaders stress the need for collaboration with departments such as the Department of Transportation and the Department of Natural Resources .

How Will Senior Housing Affect the Local Housing Market and Infrastructure?

The newly approved senior housing project is expected to provide more housing for seniors, which will also free up space for younger residents . Mayor Hanus highlighted the importance of having accessible, one-level units for seniors who may struggle with home upkeep . The project's location near the Holmboe Preserve has raised some concerns, but the Department of Natural Resources will ensure mitigation plans are in place .

The development also includes coordination with state agencies to address potential environmental impacts . The project is expected to create more housing for seniors and veterans while aligning with broader national trends in affordable housing . The conditions imposed by the CUP include the submission of a site plan and further coordination with the Department of Transportation and the Department of Natural Resources .

Some concerns remain about firetruck access to the senior housing complex due to tight corners and turning radius limitations . The project still requires final approval from Rhinelander's City Council, with construction expected to begin in May and complete by year-end .

What Are the Broader Economic Implications for the Region?

Beyond the senior housing project, Rhinelander is also considering economic developments that could boost local employment and activity. For instance, the Cassian town board has forwarded a CUP application from Twin Forest Products to Oneida County for a new sawmill operation along U.S. Highway 51 . If approved, the project is expected to create 20-30 jobs and encourage residents to live in Cassian full-time .

The town chairman, Ed Phebus, expressed optimism about the project, noting that the Twin Forest Products facility in Marathon is well-managed and clean . He also highlighted the broader economic potential of Highway 51, citing the possible relocation of another business, Oneida Roof and Chimney, to the same area .

The approval of the senior housing project and the potential development of the sawmill operation could have significant economic implications for the region. These initiatives reflect growing efforts to address housing challenges for older adults and veterans through targeted development and funding mechanisms . The outcomes of these projects could serve as models for other communities facing similar challenges in balancing recreation, housing, and infrastructure sustainability .

Oneida County planning and zoning director Karl Jennrich noted that the Twin Forest Products CUP application for a sawmill operation is scheduled for review at the planning and development committee's Feb. 18 meeting . The application involves a re-zoning of the property from residential and farm use to support the new operation .