St Mary And St Joseph Schools Being Purchased By Commonwealth

The Director of Advancement for Holy Family Catholic Community says an offer from Commonwealth Companies of Fond du Lac to purchase the St. Mary and St. Joseph’s Schools will benefit the community. Gail Kraig says the closing on the sale of the buildings on East Merrill Avenue and East 2nd Street is anticipated about the middle of next year. She says the sale is contingent on four conditions. That includes approval of a special use permit from the City, Historic Landmark credits, the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority has to issue tax credits, and the Milwaukee Archdiocese has to give its approval. She doesn’t anticipate any problems with meeting those contingencies. She says it’s a blessing the schools will be redeveloped once St. Mary’s Springs Academy moves to new school facilities on the Ledge. She says parishoners reaction to the announcement of the agreement has been positive. Commonwealth plans to develop the school buildings into residential apartments. Kraig says St. Mary’s Church will continue to operate as a place of worship, but St. Joseph’s Church has been closed and has been for sale for a few years.