With the traffic switch on to new pavement and bridges, a major milestone was reached for the multi-year John Nolen Drive causeway and Madison LakeWay projects to transform this major gateway to downtown Madison. This transformation is focused on safety, access, and resilience improvements through thoughtful redesign and reconstruction of the road, bike, pedestrian, and shoreline infrastructure. Another major focus of the transformation involves improving the natural environment, especially for the trees, as we re-establish a healthier, more resilient tree canopy along this section of shoreline.
The community can anticipate a noticeable impact to trees within the project area as we enter into the next phase of the project. During project planning phases, a tree assessment was completed by City Forestry staff to evaluate each tree's health and longevity, among other characteristics, and to see if they could thrive in their current location. The assessment identified trees for removal to make room for changes that will improve the outcomes for current and future trees that will benefit the community for generations to come.
Project Impact on Trees
As part of the John Nolen Drive and Madison LakeWay projects, it is necessary for approximately 100 trees to be removed from the project area. Most are individual trees that exhibit poor growth and development due to the harsh existing conditions.
A key goal of the John Nolen Drive and LakeWay projects is to re-establish a healthier, more resilient tree canopy along this section of shoreline. The newly planted trees will provide a more robust tree canopy.
More than 120 new shade trees will be planted in a collaborative effort between City Forestry, City Engineering, and Madison Parks. Additional tree improvements include:
- Species selections that focus on native, urban tolerant shade trees.
- Grove-style tree plantings that create a denser canopy for more shade along the shoreline.
- The new trees planted between the bike path and roadway will provide a buffer for cyclists and pedestrians, help calm traffic, and create a more sheltered, tree-lined corridor.
These improvements are intended to create a healthier, longer-lasting tree canopy while enhancing the experience of the shoreline corridor for everyone.
Improved Growing Conditions
The joint projects will significantly improve growing conditions for the new trees by providing deeper, wider planting areas with amended soil. In addition, pavement support systems will be installed beneath portions of the path to provide additional soil volume to encourage healthy root growth where space is limited. Some tree planting areas are also designed to capture stormwater, providing passive irrigation while improving water quality.
Timeline
- Tree Removal: Tree removal is scheduled to begin the week of July 20, 2026.
- Tree Planting: The planting of new trees will happen in conjunction with the installation of the Madison LakeWay project, which is expected to begin in 2027 and conclude in 2028.
