Commission approves MacArthur/Sycamore reconstruction plan with sidewalks on most streets; Sycamore set for 26‑foot cross section with parking on one side

The Madison Transportation Commission unanimously approved a staff‑recommended reconstruction design for MacArthur Road, MacArthur Court, Larson Court and Sycamore Avenue that adds curbs and sidewalks and sets a 26‑foot cross section with parking on one side for Sycamore Avenue.

City project staff (presenter identified as Andy during the meeting) told the commission the work is a curb, gutter and sidewalk reconstruction package across several short residential streets northeast of East Washington Avenue. Staff proposed sidewalks on both sides of most streets in the project, with Larson Court recommended for a sidewalk on only one side due to mature trees, private fences and constrained right‑of‑way.

On Sycamore Avenue staff presented three alternatives: a narrow 22‑foot section with no parking; a 26‑foot section with parking on one side and a maintained overnight parking restriction; and a 26‑foot section with parking on both sides (also preserving the overnight restriction). Staff recommended option 2 (26‑foot with parking on one side) after reviewing field conditions and surveying nearby residents. The online questionnaire drew 39 responses; staff said Sycamore residents’ replies showed limited consensus but that the 26‑foot/one‑side parking option best fit existing on‑site parking patterns and would accommodate terrace planting and stormwater features in design.

Staff noted the project will remove existing informal parking in terraces where apartment complexes currently use right‑of‑way space to park; staff also plans to build a cul‑de‑sac/turnaround and improve a pedestrian connection (the Dunkin connection) that currently collects stormwater and has steep grades. Staff said tree impacts had been minimized through horizontal sidewalk adjustments but that about three public trees may require removal depending on final vertical design. They also said some private trees would be avoided by shifting the sidewalk in places.

Commissioner Robbie Weber moved the commission adopt staff’s recommendation (option 2 for Sycamore and sidewalks on both sides of the streets except Larson Court). Commissioner Chris McKay Hill seconded. The chair called for a unanimous consent and the motion carried without recorded opposition.

Staff asked commissioners to note one outstanding outreach item: the apartment complex at the south end of MacArthur Court did not appear to have responded to the questionnaire; staff said it will reach out to the complex management and tenants before the Board of Public Works phase to ensure those residents have an opportunity to comment before final assessments are set.

The commission’s approval sends the project forward to plan/spec and assessment steps; Board of Public Works review and public notice processes will follow.