The Madison Board of Public Works met Wednesday to debate Broom Street renovations and approved plans for the renovation of Elizabeth Link Peace Park to be reviewed by the Common Council.
Construction on Broom Street would take place over the summer. The renovations would improve the condition of the street and replace the current streetlights, among other improvements.
The new lights would be lower to the ground and provide more light for pedestrians on sidewalks.
""As anyone who drives a car or rides a bike knows, this project is long overdue,"" Ald. Mike Verveer, District 4, said.
Though supporters see the project as necessary, the cost of the proposals sparked some debate from landowners on Broom Street.
""How can you propose such an expensive project in this economy?"" a community member asked.
""You can't put a price on public safety,"" Verveer said. ""Given the number of pedestrians walking at night, it is very important that we implement appropriate lighting.""
Verveer said he hopes the economy will be in better condition by the time the public pays for the project in October 2011.
The board also approved improvements to Elizabeth Link Peace Park.
Plans for further developing the small park off State Street include the addition of a visitors center and a fountain. These upgrades aim to make the park more visually appealing to attract more students and other citizens.
After nearly a decade of deliberations, the Madison Common Council will assess the long-awaited improvements on the park February 23. If approved by the council, construction should begin by March.
