NEIGHBORHOODS & PEOPLE

Madison has places to live. But does it have enough places to live life?

A city can have great parks, programs, events and neighborhoods and still have people who struggle to find their place in it.

And neighborhoods can tell us what they need without those needs ever becoming reality.

Let's close both gaps.

THE PLAN

Make it easier to find your people.
Go beyond events and organized meetings. Look at what creates repeated, everyday connection—the places and activities where people return, recognize one another and eventually become regulars. Build those opportunities into neighborhood life so connection has a chance to grow naturally.
Find out why neighborhood needs aren't being met.
Madison already asks residents what their neighborhoods need. Follow those needs beyond the planning process. When something residents consistently identify doesn't happen, find out why. Is it cost? Land? Zoning? Private investment? City authority? Another priority? Identify the barrier.
Connect the places where community happens.
Use Collective Power to connect one gathering place to the next and one neighborhood to the next. Parks, schools, local businesses, libraries, recreation, community organizations and other neighborhood anchors shouldn't exist as separate islands. Find the missing connections between them and build a stronger network around the people who already use them.

More people who feel connected to where they live.

More neighborhood needs that move from plans to reality.

More solutions built with the people and resources already here.

A Madison where more people can find their place, their people and a sense of home.