Campground closes for flooding as emergency preparations underway

As the sun rose on April 1, the City of Madison's campground welcomed its first visitors of the season, only to face an unexpected challenge just days later. Heavy rains prompted the campground's closure, forcing staff to issue refunds to campers scheduled for the weekend. "Not a great kickoff to the first weekend of open," noted a board member, as they monitored the rising waters and prepared to remove electrical pedestals to ensure safety.

The Parks Board meeting, held on April 2, 2025, revealed the city's proactive measures in response to the flooding. Collaborating with the street department, the administrative team is closely watching the pumps at Crystal Beach, with plans to rent a larger pump to manage the water levels. "They think they found where water was coming through and blocked one pipe today," a member reported, highlighting the team's commitment to addressing the situation swiftly.

In brighter news, preparations for the upcoming recreational season are underway. The launch of new recreation software has been rescheduled to April 15, promising improved services for residents. Baseball and softball participation numbers are on the rise, although the board is still seeking T-ball coaches to support the growing interest.

The community eagerly anticipates the opening of the city pool on May 23, just in time for Memorial Day weekend. The board discussed the pool's operating hours, which will be prominently displayed for public awareness. "Can those hours be put on a piece of paper and then put in the front window?" one member requested, ensuring that residents can easily access this information.

Additionally, the senior center continues to serve the community, providing meals and organizing trips. In April, seniors will visit Marengo Cave, and a new dance program, "Dance Like No One is Watching," will replace the previous line dancing sessions, offering a fresh opportunity for engagement.

As the meeting concluded, the board's focus remained on fostering community connections and ensuring safety amid the challenges posed by nature. The resilience of Madison's parks and recreation initiatives shines through, promising a vibrant season ahead despite the current hurdles.