Community Connection Week of March 16th, 2026

Hello, Neighbors

Spring is trying to find its footing, and so are we. There is a lot happening in our community this week -- opportunities to shape how our city grows, how our parks are designed, and how we show up for each other. This newsletter is your guide to what is happening and how to make your voice heard. Whether you join a meeting, register for public comment, or simply read along and stay informed -- you are participating in the life of this community. That matters. Everyone belongs here, and every voice counts.

Heads Up: Winter Parking Rules End March 15

Just a quick reminder that alternate side parking has been in effect all winter -- and it ends on March 15, 2026. If you have questions about parking in our district, you can find full details at the City of Madison winter parking page.

City Meetings This Week -- Your Chance to Weigh In

These meetings belong to all of us. Showing up -- in person, virtually, or just by watching from home -- is how our community stays in the loop and keeps decision-makers accountable. A full list of all city meetings is always available on the Meeting Schedule page.

Finance Committee -- Monday, March 16 at 4:30 p.m. (Virtual)

The Finance Committee will meet virtually to discuss several items, including a proposed 12-month extension of Tax Increment District 41. This kind of financing tool can shape development and investment in our neighborhoods, so it is worth knowing what is on the table. Public comment is open.

• Meeting Details
• Meeting Agenda
• Register for Public Comment
• Watch Online

Plan Commission -- Monday, March 16 at 5:30 p.m. (Virtual)

The Plan Commission will consider development-related requests affecting Districts 1, 2, 15, and 19. Even if your district is not directly on the agenda, the decisions made here ripple outward. Public comment registration is available.

• Meeting Details
• Meeting Agenda
• Register for Public Comment
• Watch Online

Common Council Discussion -- Tuesday, March 17 at 6:00 p.m. (Room 201, City-County Building)

The full Common Council will hold a special discussion on the City of Madison's sustainability plan -- a conversation about how we live, build, and move in ways that protect our environment for the people who come after us. This is a discussion (not a voting meeting), but it is a meaningful chance to understand where the city is headed and what priorities are shaping that future.

• Meeting Details
• Meeting Agenda
• Watch Online

Interested in joining a board, commission, or committee? Your perspective and lived experience are exactly what these bodies need. Learn more and apply at the City of Madison boards and commissions page.

Public Information Meetings -- Come Share What You Know

Public information meetings are exactly what they sound like: a chance for you to learn about projects in your neighborhood and tell the city what you think before decisions are finalized. You are the expert on your own streets and spaces.

Sherman Ave, N. Sherman Ave & McGuire Street Reconstruction -- Monday, March 16 at 6:00 p.m. (Virtual, via Zoom)

The City is planning a major reconstruction of Sherman Ave from McGuire St to Fordem Ave, portions of N. Sherman Ave/Fordem Ave, and McGuire St -- all in 2026. This is your opportunity to ask questions and share concerns before construction begins. Registration is required to attend.

• Event Details & Registration

Newbery Park Playground Redesign -- Tuesday, March 17

Madison Parks wants to hear from people who use Newbery Park. City staff will present revised playground equipment options based on earlier community input. This is a great moment for families and neighbors who use this park to help shape what gets built there.

• Event Details

News & Announcements Worth Knowing

CARES Teams Get New Response Vehicles

Big news for how our community handles mental health and behavioral health crises: CARES teams have received specialized Ford Transit vans to better support people experiencing non-violent behavioral health emergencies. These vehicles are outfitted to allow for more personalized, dignified care. This is what it looks like when a city invests in people -- meeting people where they are, with the care they deserve.

• Read the full announcement

Absentee Ballots Are in the Mail

If you requested an absentee ballot for the April 7, 2026 election, it is on its way. Participating in local elections is one of the most direct ways you shape this community. If you have questions about your ballot or voting options, the City Clerk's office is your resource.

• More information

New Drop-Off Site Opening April 11 at 1504 Quann-Olin Parkway

The Streets Division is opening a new, more centrally located drop-off site on April 11. Whether you are clearing out yard waste, brush, or other materials, this new location is designed to be more accessible to more residents.

• More information

Spring Yard Waste & Brush Collection Schedules Are Out

Spring is coming -- and so is yard waste pickup. You can find your neighborhood's set-out dates on the City's yard waste and brush collection pages.

• Spring Yard Waste Collection
• Brush Collection Schedule

University Avenue Lane Reduction -- Rescheduled to March 20-22

Due to weather, the eastbound University Avenue lane reduction (east of Midvale Blvd) has been pushed from March 15 to the weekend of Friday, March 20 through Sunday, March 22. Plan ahead if you travel through that corridor.

• More information

New Leadership in City Public Works

Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway has named Charlie Romines as the new Public Works Director and Rachel Darken as Fleet Service Superintendent. We look forward to seeing how this leadership shapes the services our community depends on every day.

Community Events This Week

There is so much to show up for this week. Here is what is happening:

• Olbrich Gardens Public Workshop -- Tuesday, March 17 & Thursday, March 19 (Virtual): Olbrich Botanical Gardens is undergoing its first comprehensive master planning process in over 20 years. They want to hear from you. Join in person Tuesday or virtually Thursday. Learn more
• MSCR & Madison Parks Hiring Fair -- Wednesday, March 18: Looking for seasonal work this summer -- or know someone who is? Madison Parks and MSCR are hiring in aquatics, maintenance, conservation, and more. Apply and interview on-site at Parks Lakeside Offices. Learn more
• Learn & Ride: Junction Road Park & Ride -- Thursday, March 19: Metro Transit staff will be on hand to help people learn how to ride the bus, find routes, and feel confident getting around Madison independently. A welcoming, low-pressure way to discover a new way to move. Learn more
• Bird & Nature Adventures at Starkweather Creek -- Saturday, March 21: Join Noah Edelstein and Friends of Starkweather Creek for a free, family-friendly equinox walk along easy paths in the Starkweather Creek greenway. A wonderful way to welcome spring in community. Learn more

Find even more events on the City of Madison events calendar.

Until Next Week

Thank you for reading, for showing up, and for caring about this place we share. Our neighborhood is stronger when we stay connected and look out for one another. If you ever have questions, concerns, or just want to talk -- my door is open.

In community,

Carmella Glenn

Alder, District 18