Flooding, the End of Essen Haus, and Taco Fest Investigations
Jul 26, 2024
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Join Ava Wojnowski, a newsletter editor who delves into recent flooding challenges in Madison, as she shares urgent updates on rising lake levels and stormwater management. Bianca Martin, the host and downtown development expert, mourns the loss of Essen Haus while discussing new construction projects aimed at affordable housing. Meanwhile, Hayley Sperling investigates whether the upcoming taco and margarita festival is all it's cracked up to be. Tune in for insights on community dynamics, redevelopment, and local cultural events!
Madison faces significant flooding challenges due to outdated drainage systems and budget constraints on stormwater improvement plans.
The demolition of Essen Haus for a new downtown redevelopment project reflects a shift towards urban development and increased affordable housing.
Deep dives
Madison's Flooding Concerns
This summer, Madison has faced significant rainfall, surpassing 32 inches, which is 11 inches above the annual average. As a result, local lakes are approaching flooding levels, raising concerns about the city's preparedness for such heavy storms. According to Deputy City Engineer Greg Fries, outdated drainage systems threaten to exacerbate flooding issues, as past urban development decisions have left some areas vulnerable. Plans for over $100 million in stormwater improvements are currently ambitious but limited by a city budget set at just $10 million per year, indicating a long road ahead for addressing these challenges.
Redevelopment of Historic Downtown Block
The city has approved a new redevelopment project in downtown Madison that will see the demolition of the iconic Essenhaus restaurant, which has been a staple since 1983. The redevelopment includes an eight-story apartment building with 178 units, alongside a six-story hotel with 100 rooms, increasing the availability of affordable housing in the area. The project received the green light after navigating several municipal approvals, demonstrating a shift in the city’s approach to urban development. Notably, the redevelopment maintains some historic elements of the locales, ensuring that the character of the neighborhood remains intact even as significant changes take place.
Local Badgers Prepare for the Olympics
Seventeen current and former athletes associated with the University of Wisconsin will represent their countries at the upcoming Olympics in Paris, showcasing Madison's strong athletic program. Among the notable participants are 19-year-old diver Jaden Eichermann, who will compete for Germany, and Phoebe Bacon, who, at 21, is heading to her second Olympics after qualifying for trials at age 14. The Badgers’ impressive history at the Olympics underscores the university’s commitment to supporting exceptional athletes. As excitement builds within the community, many residents are eagerly looking forward to cheering on these talented individuals during the games.
The City Cast team is here to round up the news of the week. Newsletter editor Ava Wojnowski recaps recent flooding, host Bianca Martin has an update on a downtown development (bye bye Essen Haus!), and executive producer Hayley Sperling falls down a rabbit hole investigating whether an upcoming taco and margarita festival is legit or not.