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Board grants certificate for prefab garage at 841 West Third despite metal siding concerns
Summary
The board approved a replacement accessory building at 841 West Third, permitting a metal prefabricated garage to be sited on movable footings because of utilities under the original pad; members expressed material concerns but cited the applicant’s site constraints.
The Madison Historic District Board of Review granted a certificate of appropriateness for a prefabricated metal garage at 841 West Third, after extended discussion about materials and the applicant’s sewer line constraints.
James Edwards, the property owner, explained the previous shed was destroyed by storm damage and that the new building would be a portable metal structure, set on gravel so it can be moved if utility repairs are needed beneath the site. Edwards said the proposed building would be approximately 14 by 24 feet with a single 9‑foot overhead door and one window.
Board members and city staff reviewed compatibility with the district guidelines. Several members voiced concern that metal siding is not typically preferred downtown; others noted similar metal buildings already exist nearby and that the applicant’s need to keep the structure movable to allow access to sewer and water lines was a substantial practical constraint. One board member called the application ‘‘a tough one’’ and declined to require a change; another suggested available alternatives such as standing‑seam metal with board‑and‑batten patterns to improve appearance.
After findings of fact were read, the board voted (roll call) to approve the certificate of appropriateness. The approval included no additional city funding; the applicant must finalize permit details with city staff and meet any conditions identified during permit review.
