Waunakee plan commission approves Rotary Arch for Village Park

The Waunakee Plan Commission approved the final site plan for a Rotary Club arch to replace existing Main Street right-of-way pillars at the entrance to Village Park.

Staff recommended approval of the site plan, saying the proposed arch would be 25 feet tall with a clearance of 15 feet, 3 inches beneath the arch, would include downcast, shielded lighting and sits outside the village floodplain. An unidentified staff member told the commission that engineering and the fire department had reviewed clearance and had "no concerns on the clearance height." Commissioners also heard that the design is intended to match stonework in the park and the Veterans Memorial.

Rotary representatives described design details and sought feedback on colors, lettering and the finish on stylized cattails. They said removable metal plates will be used to represent a changing town skyline so the feature can evolve over time; local painter Abby Wilson will complete the bridge-element painting and it will be clear-coated for durability.

Commission feedback focused on aesthetics and long-term maintainability. One commissioner asked whether previously proposed decorative elements would remain; the Rotary representative confirmed those elements will be part of the removable display. With no outstanding engineering or safety concerns raised, a commissioner moved to approve the site plan; the motion was seconded and carried on a voice vote.

The arch will proceed to construction in accordance with the approved site plan; staff will follow up on any final permitting or signage submittals required before installation.