Public Works Committee approves renaming north segment of Beecholt Drive near Topgolf

The City of Monona Public Works Committee on Feb. 4 approved a request to change the name of the north segment of Beecholt Drive near the Broadway Topgolf site.

City staff introduced the item and provided maps showing the portion of the street covered by the request. Staff said developer Steve Doran of Galloway Companies submitted a supporting letter included in the meeting packet. Todd, a Topgolf representative, described the project as "the first Topgolf in the state" and said the requested change would "gain a little bit more brand awareness, brand recognition." He added the company has a long-term lease on the property with Galloway and has used similar street-name branding in other locations.

Committee members asked whether any residents would be affected and whether naming a public street after a company would set a precedent. Staff replied that no residents would be affected and that Galway/Topgolf would be responsible for sign replacement and recording. One committee member asked whether other Monona streets were named for businesses; members cited examples from local history during the discussion.

After discussion, a motion to approve the street-name change for the north segment of Beecholt Drive was moved and seconded. The chair called for a voice vote; members answered "aye," and the motion passed. Staff said the approved request will be submitted to the City Council for consideration; timing depends on when the mayor and council place it on their agenda.

The decision will be sent forward to the City Council for final action; staff said it could appear at a mid-February meeting depending on scheduling decisions by the mayor and council.