Redevelopment commission approves change orders to extend Madison connector trail, adds West End safety features
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Summary
The Madison City Redevelopment Commission approved two change orders totaling about $550,000 to extend the Clifty/Madison Connector Trail, add parking and sidewalks and fund a West End pedestrian crossing and traffic-calming measures; officials said work should be substantially complete ahead of a tentative May 22 ribbon-cutting.
Staff presented progress on the Madison Connector (Clifty/ Hanover) trail and asked the commission to approve two change orders to expand the project.
The commission approved change order No. 2, a $150,000 amendment to add parking, a plaza area, curbs and sidewalk connections. Mike Harris of JTL, the project consultant, said the change order includes about a dozen parking spaces, five golf-cart spaces and substantial concrete curb, sidewalk and plaza work. "It includes... about 12 parking spaces, 5 golf cart parking spaces in there, [and] sidewalk connection to 1st Street," Harris said.
Staff also proposed a second amendment—change order No. 3—estimated at about $400,000 to fund West End pedestrian-safety improvements. The package described by staff includes a raised pedestrian crossing (a 3-inch speed table with an integrated crosswalk), guardrail work and traffic-calming elements to narrow travel lanes and slow vehicles. "We are shooting for a May 22, right before Memorial Day ribbon cutting," a staff member said, noting paving mobilized and remaining guardrail and finishing work would follow weather permitting.
Funding for the expanded scope comes from the original DNR Next Level Trails grant, reallocated Main Street Enhancement funds and private donations raised to fill gaps. Staff said private fundraising produced $145,000 for the trailhead expansion, and publicly thanked Hanover College for a $100,000 gift toward the overlook and trail amenities.
During discussion commissioners and the consultant said the work will improve connectivity from Main Street to the riverfront and create safer pedestrian access. The commission approved both change orders on voice votes after motions and seconding; the motions were carried with the customary "Aye" responses. The project team said paving is beginning at Clifty and the work should move the project from roughly 60% complete to near 90% in a matter of weeks, weather permitting.
The commission moved on after approving the amendments and staff said they would continue to coordinate final schedule and signage as the project nears completion.
