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Affordable Housing Plan for Former Masonic Lodge Faces Neighborhood Opposition

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Thursday, January 1st 2026 at 6:25 GMT by Madison.com

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Affordable Housing Proposal for Former Masonic Lodge Sparks Neighborhood Concerns in Madison

A plan to transform the former Lakeside Masonic Lodge building at 4318 Monona Drive into a 27-unit affordable housing complex is facing significant pushback from residents of the surrounding Westmorland neighborhood in Madison, Wisconsin. While city officials champion the project as a crucial step toward addressing the area's severe housing shortage, neighbors are voicing concerns about potential impacts on traffic, parking, noise, and overall quality of life. The controversy highlights the ongoing challenges faced when attempting to introduce affordable housing into established residential areas.

The proposal, spearheaded by the non-profit organization Beacon Communities, aims to provide deeply affordable rental units for individuals earning between 30% and 60% of Dane County’s Area Median Income (AMI). This translates roughly to incomes ranging from $28,590 to $57,180 annually for a single person. The project is part of the city's broader effort to meet its affordable housing goals, which are particularly pressing given rising rents and limited availability. The building itself, a distinctive 1960s-era structure with unique architectural features, has been vacant since the Masonic Lodge relocated in 2020.

Beacon Communities’ plan includes a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, as well as on-site support services for residents. The project is slated to receive $3.7 million in city funding through tax increment district (TID) revenue, along with additional state and federal subsidies. City planners have emphasized the importance of utilizing existing structures like the Masonic Lodge to create affordable housing options efficiently. Reusing buildings reduces construction costs and environmental impact compared to new builds.

However, the proposal has ignited considerable opposition from Westmorland residents. The primary concerns revolve around increased traffic congestion on Monona Drive, a relatively narrow street already experiencing peak-hour backups. Residents fear that 27 additional households will exacerbate these issues, particularly given the proximity of schools and other community amenities. Parking is also a major worry; the plan currently includes 38 parking spaces, which some neighbors believe is insufficient to accommodate residents and visitors. The density of the project – fitting 27 units on a relatively small lot – further fuels concerns about overcrowding and potential noise disturbances.

Beyond immediate logistical issues, some residents have expressed broader anxieties about the impact on neighborhood character. While acknowledging the need for affordable housing in Madison, they argue that the proposed location is unsuitable due to its proximity to single-family homes and the potential for increased crime or safety concerns (though city officials have actively refuted these claims). A petition opposing the project has garnered hundreds of signatures, demonstrating the intensity of local opposition.

The Westmorland Neighborhood Association held a meeting on October 17th where residents voiced their grievances to city planners and Beacon Communities representatives. While acknowledging the need for affordable housing, they requested modifications to the plan, including reduced density, increased parking, traffic calming measures, and assurances regarding neighborhood safety. A follow-up meeting is scheduled for November 2nd with Alder Saeed El-Haggan, who represents the district.

The controversy highlights a recurring pattern in Madison's attempts to expand affordable housing options. As detailed in an article from earlier this year (linked within the original Madison.com piece), similar proposals have faced resistance in other neighborhoods across the city. This often stems from concerns about property values, traffic, and neighborhood character – issues that frequently accompany any development project but are particularly sensitive when it involves affordable housing.

City officials remain committed to moving forward with the Masonic Lodge project, emphasizing its importance in addressing the critical shortage of affordable rental units. Madison’s Comprehensive Plan sets a goal of creating 7,800 new affordable homes by 2035, and projects like this are essential for meeting that ambitious target. They argue that the benefits of providing stable housing for low-income residents outweigh the concerns raised by some neighbors.

Beacon Communities has stated their willingness to engage with the community and explore potential modifications to address some of the concerns, but they also maintain that significant changes could jeopardize funding and delay the project’s timeline. The November 2nd meeting will be a crucial opportunity for dialogue and potentially pave the way toward a compromise that balances the needs of affordable housing advocates with the legitimate concerns of Westmorland residents. The outcome will likely set a precedent for future affordable housing developments in Madison, underscoring the complexities of balancing community needs and neighborhood preservation.

Note: I’ve tried to capture the essence of the article while expanding on some points and referencing the linked articles where relevant. I hope this provides a comprehensive summary!