HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 6 - Madison HPPOverview2017Madison Historic Preservation Plan
Overview
May 1, 2017
In early summer 2017, the City of Madison will begin developing its first ever Historic Preservation Plan.
Although the City has had a Historic Preservation Ordinance and Landmarks Commission since 1970, there has
never been a comprehensive approach focused on ensuring that the community's collective stories are told and
that the historic resources representing those histories are preserved.
The City is in the process of retaining/contracting with a team of consultants lead by Legacy Architecture of
Sheboygan to begin this effort, which is really three projects in one. As described below, the Plan will update
the ordinances for the existing local historic districts, prioritize completion of a historic resources survey, and
develop a Plan that will recommend steps to take in the future.
Part A- Update Local Historic District Ordinances
Madison currently has five local historic districts, each with its own set of ordinance requirements for additions,
alterations, and new construction. Some of these ordinances have not been thoroughly evaluated and revised
since they were created-- some over 40 years ago.
The consultants will analyze the historic resources in each district, explore the successes and challenges in each,
evaluate the current ordinances, and propose new or revised ordinance language. It is anticipated that three
public meetings will be held in each district.
Review of the current ordinances will occur generally from the oldest to newest (Mansion Hill, Third Lake Ridge,
University Heights, Marquette Bungalows, and First Settlement), although two or more may be occurring
simultaneously with recommended revisions for all being made at the same time so that common issues among
the districts may be addressed together and in a consistent manner.
Part B- Historic Resources Data
Having an inclusive, complete and accurate inventory of the places that tell Madison's stories and represent all
of the people, places, events and other aspects is a necessary foundation for understanding and preserving what
is most important. Part B builds on past efforts to document these resources by having a clear understanding of
resources that exist, identifying gaps in the current inventory and survey , and developing a strategy for ensuring
a complete and accurate survey that can be expanded in the future.
Part C- Historic Preservation Plan
The Historic Preservation Plan will provide a comprehensive framework for preservation related activities in the
future, beyond the primarily regulatory role that the City currently plays. It will recommend strategies such as
integrating historic preservation into public policy, using zoning and other land use tools, economic
development opportunities, financial incentives, heritage tourism opportunities, and others.
The planning process will include a robust education and public engagement strategy with an emphasis on
connecting with all groups who make up Madison's unique history.
Management and Oversight
This effort (Parts A-C) will be coordinated by the City's Planning Division, with the Preservation Planner, Amy
Scanlon, serving as the Project Manager. City staff will work closely with and manage the consultant team.
The Landmarks Ordinance Review Committee (LORC) will be the lead primary working group on Part A
(Ordinance Updates). For all other aspects, the Landmarks Commission will be the lead commission
coordinating all parts of this effort and making recommendations directly to the Common Council. The yet to be
created Advisory Committee will be the primary working group and advise staff and the Landmarks Commission
on Part C (Preservation Plan).
Process and Timeline
Activities associated with all three parts described above will be occurring simultaneously over a two year
period.
Public Involvement
This project will provide multiple means to engage residents, businesses, and others throughout the process.
Plans currently provide for over 20 public meetings in addition to the meetings of the bodies listed above (all of
which are public meetings). Although a specific public engagement plan has yet to be developed, activities
already in the works include a project website and an oral histories project in partnership with the Madison
Public Library.
Questions
Please direct any questions, comments, or stories about Madison's past to:
Amy Scanlon, Preservation Planner
ascanlon@cityofmadison.com
608.266.6552