Madison developer JD McCormick Properties is proposing three options to revitalize the 100 block of State Street.
Currently home to a collection of vacant buildings, the property company is looking to transform the area from 122-132 State St. into a space with 65 residential units configured as apartments and condominiums.
“We are considering various designs to make the most out of the space,” said Colin Smith, director of business development for JD McCormick. “One option is a 12-story structure with a mix of commercial spaces on the lower floors and apartments and condominiums above.”
"If we proceed with the 12-story option, it's important to note that the area is currently zoned for six stories," he added. "However, prior approvals for a nine-story hotel fell through due to financing issues. By aiming for a slightly higher structure, we intend to remain within the Capitol height limit."
Smith said that if they choose the 12-story option, it is crucial to recognize that the current zoning only allows for six stories. By opting for a slightly taller structure, they would aim to stay within the height limit allowed by regulations. However, achieving the 12-story height would require rezoning of the area to permit greater building heights.
The proposed building's upper levels are strategically set back from the street to mitigate any potential obstruction to State Street, Smith said.
A second option is a 12-story building featuring a commercial space on the ground floor, with subsequent levels designated for residential apartments.
JD McCormick has taken steps to gauge the city’s reaction to its proposals while in the early stages of planning, Smith said. “We’ve submitted a preliminary proposal to the city to gauge their initial perspective as this is more of a radical plan.”
The group engaged in a neighborhood meeting where all three design ideas were presented to the local community with “pretty good reception,” he added.
But the road to approval for what Smith said is their most formidable endeavor yet isn’t without challenges.
“This project has unique challenges primarily due to its constrained site,” Smith said. “We must craft a traffic engineering plan, a demolition strategy and a comprehensive development plan to navigate the complexities of construction without blocking State Street.”
Smith said the proposed development aims to address the need for housing in that area by offering all units at “market-rate.”
Looking ahead, the earliest anticipated start for breaking ground and demolition is next spring or summer. The overall timeline for the 100 block redevelopment varies, spanning anywhere from a 10-month project for rehabilitation and new construction to a possible 12 months.
“We understand that this will be a difficult project to get approved, but it’s a project that is necessary for this block. The current block is in pretty bad shape with the building being virtually vacant for the past decade.”
In addition to the proposed project, Smith said JD McCormick is also exploring renovation of 122 State Street, a six-story building. Current drafts propose constructing a four-story building connected to the existing six-story structure while demolishing from 132 State Street through 122 State Street.
