In a recent meeting of the Milwaukee Board of Zoning Appeals, the Department of Public Works (DPW) expressed no objections to a proposed community center and religious assembly hall at 3330 South 16th Street. The DPW noted that while the facility could operate without significant adverse impacts on traffic and parking, there may be times of congestion, particularly during events.

The discussion highlighted concerns from local residents and nearby institutions about potential parking issues. A representative from the neighboring Saint John Paul II parish raised worries about increased traffic during Friday services, which coincide with school pickup times. Residents expressed fears that additional vehicles could exacerbate existing congestion in the area.

Despite these concerns, some community members voiced support for the project. Doug Simpson, a resident living just a few doors down, argued that the parking situation is manageable and that the building's use for community functions would be a positive addition to the neighborhood. He noted that similar parking challenges occur during church services on Sundays, which residents have adapted to over time.

The board discussed possible solutions to mitigate parking issues, including utilizing nearby open spaces and negotiating with local businesses for additional parking options. However, a proposal to use the parish's parking lot was rejected due to legal and safety concerns.

After deliberation, the board voted to approve the special use permit for a period of two years, allowing time to assess the impact on the neighborhood. The decision aims to balance the needs of the community with the concerns of residents, ensuring that any potential issues can be addressed in the future.