Exploring Green Bay’s available lots

REEN BAY – The lot at 115 S. Van Buren Street in Green Bay is one of several parcels of land the city has made available to promote “thoughtful development and revitalization.”

These properties, known as infill lots, offer unique opportunities for individuals or organizations with a vision to enhance the city’s neighborhoods.

The City of Green Bay manages the sale of these lots to ensure they are developed in ways that align with community standards and zoning requirements.

Here’s how the program works and what potential buyers need to know.

Where do these lots come from

Over the past two decades, the City of Green Bay has acquired infill lots through a combination of city funding, county tax deed foreclosures and private purchases, explained Real Estate Specialist
Ronda Bitney.

The application process

If you’re interested in purchasing a lot, here’s the step-by-step process:
Submit an application
Buyers must complete an application, which is then reviewed by the city’s Real Estate Investment Team. The team evaluates the proposal to ensure it aligns with city goals.
Approval process
After review, the application is sent to the Redevelopment Authority, which meets on the second Tuesday of each month to make final decisions.
Build timeline
Approved buyers are expected to complete their project within one year.

What the city looks for in a buyer

While anyone can apply, the city prioritizes buyers who:
Meet project deadlines
The ability to finish construction within a year is critical.
Follow zoning codes
Projects must adhere to zoning and setback requirements.
Align with neighborhood design
Proposed buildings should complement the architectural style and scale of surrounding properties.

How the city advertises available lots

Infill lots, like the one at 115 S. Van Buren Street, are listed on the City of Green Bay’s website at
https://greenbaywi.gov/332/Available-Properties.
The listings include:
Property details
Price, zoning information, and a link to a parcel map.
Development suggestions
Recommended building styles and approved plans.
In addition, the City of Green Bay also places signs on the lots.

When lots sell for $1

While most lots are sold at market value, the city occasionally sells parcels for $1 to support affordable housing initiatives.

Bitney explained that this happens when developers demonstrate a “funding gap” in their projects, and the donation of land can make the difference between success and failure.

Organizations like Habitat for Humanity and NeighborWorks Green Bay have benefited from this option, creating affordable housing for the community.

If you’re interested in applying for available properties, start by visiting the Green Bay available properties page at greenbaywi.gov/332/Available-Properties and complete the application.