By Jena Emmert
The Edgewood High School Board of Trustees announced on Feb. 22 that it will go ahead with outdoor lighting and a new sound system for its athletic field.
But it said it has postponed a decision on a bigger expansion plan that would increase seating and add a concessions stand and a ticket booth, among other improvements. That plan would require approval by the city’s Plan Commission.
The Plan Commission would not have to approve new lighting and sound systems, which are regulated by city ordinances. The memo said changes to the lighting and the sound system would already meet city requirements.
“We took this action in order to continue our conversations with our neighbors – at their request – and to better focus on the Goodman Athletic Complex improvements allowed through existing city ordinances versus those that require an amendment to our Master Plan,” the trustees said in a memo.
Neighbors have been protesting the new stadium plan, displaying “No New Stadium” signs. Their primary concerns are noise pollution from crowds and the amplification system, as well as sky glow from the LED lights. Some are also concerned with parking and the negative environmental effects on local wildlife and Lake Wingra.
In a poll taken by No New Stadium of neighbors within 1,000 feet of the stadium, 221 neighbors oppose the stadium, 40 support it, and 39 are undecided.
As stated on the No New Stadium website, “We’re your neighbors, colleagues, walkers, runners, kayakers, and cyclists. We’re everyone who appreciates the Monroe Street corridor and Lake Wingra watershed.”
According to the statement from the Board of Trustees, the concerns have been addressed. “Based on the fact that installation of outdoor lighting is regulated by city ordinances and not regulated under the current Master Plan, the Edgewood Board of Trustees recently approved moving forward with a formal application to the city for the LED lighting technology,” it said.
“This technology exceeds city lighting requirements and does not require an amendment to our Master Plan,” it continued.
Upgrades to the sound system have been approved, as well, both by the board and under city ordinances, the board said.
“We believe we can move forward not just under the letter of the law, but also in good faith, knowing there will be minimal negative impact from these actions,” the statement said. “We remain committed to ensuring Edgewood maintains its position as a valued community asset while striving to provide the best, most robust experience for our students.”
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