Siding with an earlier decision by the Landmarks Commission, the Madison City Council rejected a proposal from Steve Brown Apartments to redevelop a swath of property in the Mansion Hill District. The Landmarks Commission had ruled against the project based on its appropriateness for the historic neighborhood. Steve Brown Apartments had proposed replacing three structures — the 10-story Highlander student dorm and two homes— with three five-story apartment buildings resembling brownstones. One of the homes would have been relocated to Gorham Street. But only six of 18 council members voted to override the Landmark Commission’s decision.
Margaret Watson, CEO of Steve Brown Apartments, said the company will not propose anything new for the site until the city changes its rules on historic districts.
