A proposal by a Madison-based developer to relocate the historic Goll Mansion to make room for a 27-story residential tower received approval from the Milwaukee Historic Preservation Commission Tuesday, but the city’s plan commission was split on the decision.
Developer Chris Houden, with Palisade Properties Management LLC, plans to relocate the mansion, 1550 N. Prospect Ave., as part of his $55 million project that includes a 192-unit residential tower.
The 9,000-square-foot home, built in 1898, would be relocated by putting the house on tracks, moving it backwards, towards Lake Michigan, building a new foundation for the home closer to Prospect Avenue, and then moving the home onto its new foundation, according to Thomas Miller of architectural firm Kahler Slater.
“Not only will the proposed development be a $55 million investment in the neighborhood, adding significant tax base to the city, it is the best chance to restore and rehabilitate the historic Goll Mansion and return it to its prominence on Prospect Avenue,” Houden said.
The city’s plan commission raised questions about the development’s effect on traffic and if it would provide residents with adequate parking. The proposal includes 212 parking spaces. Despite the 3-3 vote, the proposal will move forward to the city’s Zoning, Neighborhoods and Development Committee July 19 and later, the Common Council.
The key was getting the certificate of appropriateness from the Historic Preservation Commission, Tuesday, which was unanimous.
Houden is scheduled to purchase the house by the end of July from Dominion Properties and Bill Nasgovitz.
Once moved, the original mansion could be used as a commercial/leasing office, a restaurant or up to eight apartments. The plan commission and the city’s Historic Preservation Commission would have to approve future usage of the house.
During the same plan commission meeting Tuesday, the panel unanimously approved The Hills Luxury Commons, a 181-unit residential development planned at 1937 N. Hubbard St. in the Brewers Hill neighborhood.
The one- and two-bedroom apartments will be built in three buildings by Kevin Newell of Royal Capital Group. Amenities will include multiple rooftop terraces, and a café/restaurant.
The project sill requires approval from the Zoning, Neighborhoods and Development Committee and final plan commission approval on July 26.
