realestate

Ryan Companies' Senior VP of Real Estate Development: Maureen Michalski

Public policy restrictions hinder investment, heighten development risk, worsen housing crisis.

T
he biggest challenges in the development world include restrictive public policy deterring investor interest, increasing development risk, and exacerbating the national housing crisis. A widening housing wage gap is driving the crisis, with wages not keeping pace with inflation growth for lower-income earners while construction costs skyrocket.

    High construction costs combined with low property valuations make it difficult to justify new projects, leaving most investment capital on the sidelines. To attract more funding, strategic solutions are needed to address these challenges.

    In Minnesota, there is an urgent need for more housing options, including both for-sale and rental properties. Streamlining regulatory approvals and reducing funding requirements would accelerate construction timelines and lower costs. Infrastructure gaps, particularly in power supply, hinder data center development, and addressing these issues is crucial for regional economic growth.

    If I could change one thing about Minnesota, it would be to introduce a Redevelopment Tax Credit to support the revitalization of underutilized corporate campuses and office buildings. This dedicated tax credit would allow redevelopment of these sites, stimulate economic growth, and transform them into vibrant spaces that better serve our communities.

    In my free time, I'm an avid fan of professional cycling, particularly the Grand Tours and Life Time Grand Prix. The Tour de France Femmes this year was captivating, and I'm optimistic about the growing focus on women's cycling.

Maureen Michalski, Ryan Companies' Senior VP, in real estate development meeting.