ARPA funds, future of Metro fares, fun stuff

Hello neighbors,

It's been a lovely week, but without much rain. Please do remember to water sparingly, and preferably not during the heat of the day.

Upcoming meetings of interest:

• The City has launched a new webpage for the American Rescue Plan Act to provide information about the planned allocation of federal funds to support an equitable recovery and continue to provide government services. The City will host two information sessions to share information about the annual budget process and address funding allocations outlined in the plan. The information sessions will take place on July 22nd (4:30-6:30pm) and July 27th (4:00-5:00pm). The sessions will be recorded and posted to the webpage.

• Metro is looking at replacing its current fare collection system in the coming years and will be hosting an introductory public meeting Wednesday, July 21 at 6:00 pm. At this meeting, city staff will introduce what kind of new technology is out there and explain how collecting fares can be improved upon through smart cards, purchase kiosks, and possibly mobile ticketing.

• The Urban Design Commission will be meeting at 4:30pm on July 28 to consider the planned improvements at West High School. 

• Nehemiah will be hosting a webinar on the pushback to Black progress on August 10 at 7pm.

Fun stuff:

• Movies in the Park with story time 30 minutes prior are happening now through August 17.
• Jazz is returning to State Street Wednesdays in August.
• Movie Night at the Mallards with Just Dane is August 28 at 7:15pm.

Pat on the back:

Madison has been recognized as one of the best American cities at using data and evidence to improve residents' lives.

I sincerely hope you are enjoying the best of Madison this summer.

-Regina Vidaver