A finalized proposal for a multi-purpose development requiring the demolition of Stadium Bar will go to a city committee for consideration April 8, according to a local city official.
The Opus Group, the project’s developers, plan to construct a multi-purpose building featuring commercial space on the ground floor and five additional levels of rental space.
The original design proposed an eight-story building, but Ald. Shiva Bidar-Sielaff, District 5, said community members approve of the building’s height at six stories.
She said the building will add density to an area where many students look to live.
But Bidar-Sielaff added not all students can afford the high income, high end student housing being built around the city.
“My biggest concern is, as we continue thinking about this new building, how do we balance that with making sure that we have affordable housing for students?” she said.
The lot in consideration for the proposed complex, located at 1419 Monroe St., is currently home to the Stadium Sports Bar & Eatery, which would be demolished for the new multi-purpose building.
Popular on gamedays with its proximity to Camp Randall Stadium, Bidar-Sielaff said there is “a sentimental attachment” to Stadium Bar.
“Current students who have enjoyed the Stadium Bar and alumni will miss that,” she said.
Bidar-Sielaff added the removal of Stadium Bar will not change the area that dramatically.
The proposal will go before the Plan Commission for a recommendation April 8, and if approved, the city Council will likely consider it April 16, according to Bidar-Sielaff.
