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Monona commission begins capital planning for benches, shelters and accessible pads
Summary
Commissioners discussed seeking TIF funding for benches and small shelters at high-ridership stops, asked staff for maps and cost estimates to submit a capital request to the mayor next month, and explored bike-rack sponsorships and maintenance responsibilities with public works.
At the July 8 meeting the Monona Transit Commission began scoping a modest capital request for 2027 to add benches, small shelters and accessible pads at selected bus stops and to identify related operational responsibilities.
Chair Rick Bernstein said using TIF funds could make small improvements without affecting the city’s levy and urged the group to limit initial requests as the commission learns the capital budget process. “It’s easier to take advantage of that funding from projects like this because it doesn't affect our levy limits,” he said.
Staff noted the commission should prioritize stops based on ridership patterns and provide precise locations and cost estimates by the next meeting; Mark Botaker said he would circulate a ridership map and convert data into a graph for members to scout candidate stops. Commissioners suggested focusing on high-boardings stops and adding only a few locations in the first year.
Members discussed accessibility: staff explained crews will add small concrete pads and curb access so shelters are ADA-accessible rather than installing full sidewalks where not already present. Public works currently maintains city-owned shelters and would be responsible for snow removal and general upkeep; commissioners were advised to coordinate operating details with public works staff when drafting requests.
Commissioners also raised smaller complementary items that affect usability: adding one- or two-loop bike racks at new pads, and seeking business sponsorships for benches. A grant submitted by MESPA with the senior center to fund benches was mentioned; staff said they had not received a definitive response yet.
Next steps: staff will circulate a ridership map and a small cost estimate ahead of the commission’s August meeting so members can identify priority stops and finalize a limited capital request to transmit to the mayor’s budget process.
