City of Madison approval processes are under some scrutiny after minor alterations to the Edgewater Hotel renovation were approved without going through the Landmarks and Urban Design Commissions.
Robert Dunn, president of Hammes Co. and developer of the project, added changes to the hotel’s original plans, including relocating equipment and adding screening, extending the height of elevator equipment, and adding space next to a penthouse clubroom at the top of the hotel. Other changes included increasing the size of balconies and adding a few more to the new tower, extending part of the restaurant 2 feet toward the lake, and adding parking space for condo owners.
Steve Cover, Madison’s director of planning, community, and economic development, reportedly told his staff to approve the changes because he felt they were minor, wouldn’t affect views, and therefore did not require commission review. Now some are questioning city processes in regard to the role of commissions and staff.
