Are you wondering what McFarland’s latest planning moves mean for your home, your neighborhood, or your next purchase? You are not alone. Recent board actions and community conversations have changed the tone of local development, and it is smart to understand how that could affect values and timelines. In this guide, you will learn what the Village decided, where growth is most likely next, and how to position your move with confidence. Let’s dive in.
What changed in Village policy
In a key shift, the Village Board voted on February 25, 2025 to end the 2010 Redevelopment Districts No. 1 and No. 2. The resolution states the earlier blight analysis is no longer in effect and cannot be used to condemn property for private redevelopment. You can read the Village’s announcement for details in the official News Flash. Village News Flash on termination
What this signals for you:
- Lower risk of blight-based condemnations in the affected areas, which has reassured many owners.
- More cautious use of aggressive redevelopment tools for large private projects.
- More emphasis on public engagement before big changes move forward.
How boundary planning guides growth
McFarland is also negotiating a new cooperative boundary plan with the Town of Dunn to guide where, when, and how the Village may expand through mid‑century. This plan sets a coordinated framework for annexation and highlights potential growth corridors, including timing scenarios near Highway 51. Cooperative Boundary Plan page
What this signals:
- Predictable, negotiated growth instead of ad‑hoc annexations.
- Targeted expansion in identified areas where infrastructure can support new housing and business.
- A longer planning horizon that helps buyers and sellers gauge how nearby land could change over time.
Infrastructure work to watch
The Village continues routine capital projects that support both infill and new development. The 2025 Street and Utility Improvements program is underway, improving capacity and neighborhood conditions. 2025 Street & Utility Improvements
Parks and trails also matter. McFarland is updating its Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, which can influence where multi‑family or mixed‑use projects are most feasible and welcomed. Watch for new meeting dates on the municipal news page. Village News
Community voice and process
Public feedback is shaping policy. January 2025 hearings drew significant turnout, with residents voicing concerns about condemnations and neighborhood character. That response preceded the Village’s decision to terminate the redevelopment plans. Local hearing coverage
What to expect next:
- More outreach and longer review timelines for proposals in sensitive areas.
- Negotiated solutions that rely on voluntary agreements, site plan adjustments, and transparent incentives.
- Active roles for the Plan Commission and CDA in reviewing rezoning, site plans, and land divisions. Plan Commission overview
Market backdrop in plain terms
Local demand remains steady, supported by proximity to Madison, lake access, and community amenities. McFarland sits on Lake Waubesa and is minutes from regional employment centers, which keeps interest strong. About McFarland
While market trackers have recently shown a seller‑leaning environment, prices and inventory shift month to month. If you plan to buy or sell, check current local stats as you get started and use them to set expectations on timing and pricing.
What this means for buyers
If you are buying a home in McFarland:
- Expect incremental change near identified growth corridors as the boundary plan advances.
- Look for value in areas with fresh infrastructure, where street and utility work may improve neighborhood appeal.
- Use the public process to your advantage. Upcoming hearings and plan updates can reveal where new housing or mixed‑use is most likely.
Quick buyer checklist:
- Get pre‑approved to stay competitive.
- Ask about upcoming street, utility, or park projects near homes you like.
- Review Village agendas for projects in your target area.
- Consider long‑term hold potential in corridors identified for future growth.
What this means for sellers
If you are selling in 2025:
- Reduced condemnation risk in former redevelopment areas removes one uncertainty for buyers.
- Public scrutiny of large projects may slow some new supply, which can support near‑term seller leverage.
- Local improvements can boost curb appeal and buyer confidence for nearby homes.
Quick seller checklist:
- Time your listing around local project schedules and school calendars.
- Prepare your home with thoughtful updates and professional staging.
- Share recent, sourced market data in your listing materials.
- Highlight nearby parks, trails, and access to Madison in neutral, factual language.
How we help you move smart
You deserve clear guidance and a calm plan. We track board actions, plan updates, and capital projects so you can make decisions with confidence. Whether you are upsizing, downsizing, building, or selling land, we coordinate the details and keep your move on timeline.
Ready to talk strategy for your next move in McFarland or greater Dane County? Connect with our team at Lessing Real Estate for a tailored plan and white‑glove support.
FAQs
What did the Village change about redevelopment in 2025?
- On February 25, 2025 the Village ended the 2010 redevelopment districts and removed the related blight analysis from use in eminent domain for private projects, per the Village’s News Flash announcement.
How will the Town of Dunn boundary plan affect growth?
- The cooperative boundary plan sets timelines and areas for possible annexation, guiding where growth is most likely and helping the Village manage expansion predictably.
Are street and utility projects a signal for new housing?
- Routine capital work can increase feasibility for nearby infill or new development, so buyers and sellers should note 2025 project locations and schedules.
What does strong public feedback mean for future proposals?
- Expect more outreach and careful review, especially in downtown and other sensitive areas, with negotiated solutions favored over aggressive tools.
Where can I follow official updates on projects and hearings?
- Monitor the Village’s News Flash, Plan Commission page, and the cooperative boundary plan page for meeting dates, materials, and decisions.
