Local Leaders Celebrate Completion of Latest State Street Project

Madison – Mayor Dave Cieslewicz, Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin and other local leaders gathered in downtown Madison today to celebrate completion of the latest phase of the State Street reconstruction project with a formal re-opening of Madison’s most famous thoroughfare. “State Street is the heart of downtown Madison,” said Cieslewicz. “The investments we are making will help State Street continue to remain a unique, world-class destination for decades to come. In this period of tight budgets, I am very grateful to the leadership of Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin in helping Madison get its fair share of federal resources to make this project a reality. I also want to thank the downtown business owners and their patrons for their patience throughout this process.” “The revitalization of State Street has been a high priority for the City of Madison,” said Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin. “I have been pleased to secure federal funds for this project which not only enhances the appearance and functionality of the street, but also helps create an environment that encourages economic development throughout downtown Madison.” The reconstruction of the 300 and 400 blocks of State Street is the third phase of a four-year, $17 million project to rebuild the entire length of the street. The project is funded with a combination of city and federal funds, including $4.75 million in secured federal funds and an additional $1 million anticipated thanks to the leadership of Congresswoman Baldwin. The first phases of the project - the 100 and 200 blocks - were completed in 2004 and 2005. In 2007, the City will reconstruct the 500 and 600 blocks of State Street. “The State Street plan is a perfect example of what is needed in downtown Madison - constant investment,” said Susan Schmitz, President of Downtown Madison, Inc. “The Madison community has made it clear that State Street is one of the most important ‘jewels’ in our city and we need to make sure that it gets what it needs to remain Madison’s most vital street. The community’s commitment to this street allowed our representative in Washington to advocate for us and we thank Tammy Baldwin for bringing resources home.” “State Street is like no other place in Madison,” added Mary Carbine, Executive Director of Madison’s Central Business Improvement District. “Home to a high percentage of locally-owned businesses, it offers a unique mix of retail, dining, arts, culture and entertainment. It’s also a vital part of Madison’s history and personality. On behalf of the businesses, we’re delighted to invite everyone downtown to shop, dine and enjoy themselves on the brand new 300-400 blocks and all of State Street.”