Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Commission approves Davidson–Maher–Park–Gary street rebuild with one-sided sidewalks to preserve tree canopy
Summary
The Transportation Commission approved a proposed full reconstruction of Davidson Street, Maher Avenue, Park Court and Gary Street that adds curb, gutters, stormwork and sidewalks. Staff proposed one-sided sidewalks in most blocks to reduce removal of large trees; the commission approved the design after public comment and staff adjustments.
The Madison Transportation Commission on June 11 approved design plans for a full-street reconstruction covering Maher Avenue, Davidson Street, Park Court and Gary Street. The plan includes new curb and gutter, replacement of water and sanitary sewer, stormwater features and sidewalks; commissioners approved single-sided sidewalks on most blocks to preserve substantial existing tree canopy.
Why it matters: The project covers neighborhood streets near Cottage Grove and Atwood that currently lack continuous pedestrian facilities. Staff and residents both emphasized tree preservation: several older, large street trees cluster along Maher and Gary, and staff said removing curb and widening terraces to install sidewalks on both sides would require many tree removals.
Project scope and staff rationale
Jose Navarro, the project lead from the city’s transportation department, walked the commission through alternatives presented in public information meetings. Options included…
Already have an account? Log in
Subscribe to keep reading
Unlock the rest of this article — and every article on Citizen Portal.
- Unlimited articles
- AI-powered breakdowns of topics, speakers, decisions, and budgets
- Instant alerts when your location has a new meeting
- Follow topics and more locations
- 1,000 AI Insights / month, plus AI Chat

