Middleton Belle Farm Neighborhood: A Sustainable Oasis in Wisconsin

Middleton Belle Farm Neighborhood: A Sustainable Oasis in WisconsinPhoto byTom RumbleonUnsplash

Middleton, Wisconsin — In a visionary move, a local developer and meditation leader, Kathleen Slattery-Moschkau, is set to transform a 44-acre expanse of open land into the Middleton Belle Farm Neighborhood, an “eco/agri/wellness neighborhood” that could set a new standard for sustainable living in Dane County.

The ambitious project, nestled between Parmenter Street and Graber Pond on Middleton’s north side, is not just about constructing homes; it’s about creating a harmonious blend of sustainable living and wellness. Here’s what you need to know about this groundbreaking development:

The Middleton Belle Farm Neighborhood is committed to being nearly entirely self-sustaining when it comes to energy. The development plans to harness the Earth’s natural resources by utilizing geothermal energy for heating and cooling. Just a few feet below the ground, the Earth maintains a consistent temperature of around 50 degrees year-round, making it an ideal source for geothermal energy.

For electricity needs, rooftop solar panels will adorn each residence, ensuring that the carbon footprint is kept to a minimum. This commitment to renewable energy aims to achieve near net-zero carbon emissions, contributing significantly to the fight against climate change.

One of the distinguishing features of this project is its diversity of housing options. The neighborhood will feature 150 single-family homes and 730 multifamily units. These include multifamily rentals, condominiums with up to three bedrooms, townhouses, and cottages. The architectural designs draw inspiration from European, urban, and modern trends, ensuring that residents have a wide array of choices when it comes to selecting their dream home.

Prospective homeowners even have the opportunity to customize their residences, as long as the designs fit within the overall aesthetic of the neighborhood.

The estimated cost for land acquisition and infrastructure development stands at approximately $29 million. Construction costs for the initial phase are projected at around $133 million, though this figure may vary depending on property developers’ bids and the extent of custom-built homes.

The Middleton Belle Farm Neighborhood is a long-term project, with completion expected to take up to five phases over the next seven to eight years. Kathleen Slattery-Moschkau, the mastermind behind the development, is no stranger to entrepreneurship but sees this as her first venture into real estate development.

While some of the rentals will be market rate, the development is keeping an open mind about subsidizing certain rentals to make them more affordable for lower-income residents. Proposed amenities include bike and foot paths, greenhouses, fire pits, meditation spaces, a boardwalk, and even a dog park, emphasizing a commitment to the well-being of both residents and the environment.

Approximately 50% of the area within the neighborhood will be preserved as open space, ensuring that residents have access to nature and greenery.

The Middleton Belle Farm Neighborhood stands as a beacon of innovation in the field of sustainable living. It’s not just about building homes; it’s about creating a community that lives in harmony with the environment. Geothermal energy offers a clean, efficient, and environmentally friendly source of heating and cooling, reducing both carbon emissions and indoor air pollution.

Rooftop solar panels empower residents to generate their own electricity and even contribute excess energy to the grid. This forward-thinking approach aligns with the global push for cleaner, more sustainable living.

The Middleton city government is firmly behind this innovative project, providing $16.5 million in tax incremental financing to underwrite the development. According to city officials, the first phase of the project alone is expected to add $82.3 million in property value to the municipality.

Abby Attoun, the Director of Planning and Community Development, expressed excitement about the project, calling it “one of the most innovative projects” she’s seen in her profession. She also highlighted the need for new housing types in the region, particularly owner-occupied options.

In a world where sustainability and wellness are paramount concerns, the Middleton Belle Farm Neighborhood shines as a model for the future. This eco/agri/wellness neighborhood promises to not only redefine modern living but also lead the way towards a more sustainable, healthier, and harmonious way of life. As the project unfolds over the coming years, it’s poised to become a remarkable testament to the power of sustainable development and mindful living.