Construction proposed for a State Street project that would generate revenue for the Overture Center at the more immediate expense of closing State Street establishments like Frida's Mexican Grill for up to 15 months was presented to the community Monday.
The proposal calls for renovating and demolishing various properties on State Street's 100 block to revitalize the Overture Center and Central Library area with reconfigured retail and office spaces, according to project manager George Austin.
Madison philanthropists Jerry and Pleasant Frautschi, whose $205 million contribution funded the Overture Center's creation, own all properties involved. In addition to footing the renovations' entire $10 million budget, the Frautschis would donate all annual net revenue generated to the Overture Center.
""We're facing a move, and [the project] is going to cost us tens of thousands of dollars to find a [new] location that we can afford,"" owner of Vic's Corn Popper Lubna Azad said.
Sam Lambert, a manager at neighboring Frida's, was more optimistic, saying the restaurant's lease allows them to return to the premises once construction ends.
In a press release, the Block 100 Foundation overseeing the project said it was ""doubtful"" businesses would return after the interruptive 15-month construction period.
Austin said Monday the foundation would ""engage in discussion"" with leaseholders about future occupancy.
One Overture Center usher applauded the project's atheistic potential.
""I wear a suit and I seat people for $85 shows, and they look out of this beautiful glass window at a back alley,"" he said.
Some of the project's buildings are designated city landmarks, an added complication that may push completion back further than anticipated.
""These buildings are among the oldest in the city,"" Ald. Mike Verveer, District 4, said. His district encompasses the proposed project site. ""Historic preservation is definitely an issue that I think is number one in most people's minds.""
