Blocking the View of One of South Madison’s Newest  Assets Is Not a Community Sensitive Solution!

Problem Statement

There is a critical need for buildings to be designed with sensitivity to the environments in which they are built. Community-sensitive design ensures that new developments complement the surrounding architecture and assets, enhancing the neighborhood rather than diminishing its existing strengths.

Proposed Project

The Park-Badger development aims to create 400-600 affordable housing units starting at the intersection of Park Street and Badger Rd in Madison, WI. This initiative seeks to address the urgent demand for affordable housing in the area.

Community Concerns

While there is broad agreement on the need for affordable housing, this must be pursued thoughtfully to prevent adverse impacts on other assets within the community. The proposed design of the Park-Badger Building A raises concerns about its integration into the neighborhood.

Scale and Visibility

The design includes an eight-story apartment building, the first of its kind on the block. While ambitious in addressing housing needs, its scale threatens to overshadow neighboring properties.

Aesthetic Impact

One notable concern is its impact on the newly built Black Business Hub, a recent and significant investment in South Madison. The Hub features striking architecture that serves as a source of pride and a visual centerpiece for the community. The proposed building risks obstructing views of this landmark, undermining its aesthetic and cultural value.

Community Feedback

During two recent public meetings with the Alexander Group and its development team, community members voiced these concerns, particularly about the risk of diminishing the architectural prominence of the Black Business Hub. Unfortunately, these concerns were met with minimal acknowledgment and a lack of demonstrated care or empathy from the planning team.

Advocacy for Balanced Development

As a proponent of affordable housing, I strongly believe that Madison can achieve an equitable and inclusive development that addresses housing needs while preserving and enhancing existing community assets. Thoughtful coordination between projects can ensure that new structures integrate seamlessly into their surroundings, contributing to a harmonious and thriving neighborhood.

I hope that our city planners  are committed to a true community  sensitive design.