A developer has big plans for a new apartment complex in a mostly industrial area on Madison’s east side, but the neighborhood is pushing back.

It’s not a case of “not in my backyard,” neighbors say. They’re fine with development on the site, but they argue the height and density of the project is too much.

The developer says they’ve already made a number of changes to accommodate neighbors, but agreed to delay their presentation to the city's Plan Commission to continue to work with residents.

The project, slated for 131 S. Fair Oaks Ave., would build a five-story mixed-use 161-unit apartment complex with around 11,400 square feet of first floor commercial and residential space. The site is currently home to a one-story Kessenich’s Ltd. distribution center, which would be demolished.

India Viola, a neighborhood resident, said most of the residents in the area bounded by Atwood Avenue, Emmet Street, South Fair Oaks Avenue and Olbrich Botanical Gardens use the online Nextdoor neighborhood messaging system, and many have expressed concerns about the project as currently proposed.