Madison Super 8 could be converted into low-cost housing

Wiseman Capital Group of Madison is planning to convert the Super 8 Wyndham Madison East hotel, located on Hayes Road near East Towne Mall, into 131 studio apartments, according to a report from the Wisconsin State Journal. 

The project aims to address the city’s low-cost housing crisis and improve the neighborhood. The development will include various amenities such as a community entertainment area, coworking space, upgraded pool, fitness center, and laundry, along with outdoor features like a dog run and grilling stations. 

The hotel, built in 1988 on a 2.7-acre site, has been experiencing an increase in police calls since 2019. The conversion to apartments would make efficient use of the existing structure and take advantage of the site’s convenient location close to commercial centers, entertainment venues, transportation, and job opportunities. 

The proposed interior renovations include fresh paint, hard-surface flooring, windows, doors, energy-efficient lighting, and well-equipped kitchenettes and bathrooms. Additionally, some hotel rooms would be repurposed to provide bike parking, a dog wash station, and other community amenities. 

The target residents for the studio apartments are young professionals, students, singles, empty-nesters, retirees, and frequent travelers. The proposal will require a conditional use permit from the Plan Commission, and if approved, the renovations are planned to start in the fall with completion expected in the spring of 2024.