From Theory to Practice: Transportation, Safety, and the Future of Odana Road in District 11

This fall, organizations across the Greater Madison area are inviting residents to participate in the Week Without Driving, returning October 1-8, 2026. The event encourages people to experience what life is like without relying on a personal vehicle, a daily reality for an estimated 30-40% of Dane County residents. By taking part, participants can gain a better understanding of transportation challenges and help advance discussions about creating a transportation system that works for everyone.  I will be introducing an honorary resolution at the September 22 Common Council meeting recognizing October 1–8, 2026 as "Week Without Driving", and encourage residents, community organizations, businesses, and public officials to participate, reflect, and work toward a future where everyone—regardless of age, ability, or income—has safe, affordable, and sustainable transportation options.

Leading up to the Week Without Driving, District 11 residents will have two opportunities to learn more about how transportation shapes our neighborhoods and communities.

The first event will take place on Wednesday, September 23, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. at Sequoya Library, where transportation expert Christof Spieler will discuss his new book, Transportation and the Shape of Cities (Princeton University Press, 2026). Spieler will explore how transportation systems influence urban design, economic development, and community growth, with a focus on Madison's evolving transportation network. The book examines transportation modes including walking, bicycling, automobiles, trains, and public transit, and how they shape the places we live.

This free event is co-sponsored by 1000 Friends of Wisconsin, and all are welcome to attend. Prior reading of the book is not required. A limited number of books and introductory excerpts are available at the Sequoya Library Ask Desk on a first-come, first-served basis. The District 11 Book Club, which I host several times each year, explores issues related to urban planning, transportation, environmental stewardship, public policy, and city growth.

The Book Club on Wednesday, September 23 will provide an opportunity to examine the theory behind transportation planning. The following evening, residents can see those ideas put into practice through a major redevelopment project that will reshape both recreation and transportation along Odana Road.

Image credit: Bill Tishler

On Thursday, September 24, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., the Parks Division will host a in-person Public Open House at the Odana Hills Golf Course clubhouse to discuss the multi-million-dollar redesign of the golf course and clubhouse, funded through a private donation. The project will begin in fall 2026, require closure of the course through 2027, and culminate with the opening of a redesigned 18-hole golf course and new clubhouse in the spring of 2028.

When: Thursday, September 24, 2026 from 6:30 p.m.- 8:30 p.m.
Where: Odana Hills Clubhouse (4635 Odana Road, Madison, WI. 53711)
Learn more: Visit the Parks Department project website to learn more
This event will be in-person only. No registration is required.

Image credit: Bill Tishler

The redevelopment at the Odana Hills Golf Course will also bring significant transportation improvements, including a new protected bike path along Odana Road, golf course and park driveway realignment, safer pedestrian and bicycle crossings, and the installation of Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) at several intersections along Odana Road including Charles Lane, Orchard Drive, and Hilltop Drive.

Together, the Week Without Driving, the District 11 Book Club, and the Odana Hills Public Open House offer a unique opportunity to explore transportation from multiple perspectives. Residents can experience firsthand the challenges of navigating our community without a car, learn how transportation networks shape cities and neighborhoods, and see how those ideas are being put into practice through major investments along the Odana Road corridor. I hope to see many area residents participating in these events, sharing their perspectives, and helping advance the conversation about transportation, accessibility, and quality of life in our community.