Madison Enhances Safety by Linking Two Major Bike Paths

Madison, recognized as a bike-friendly city, is enhancing safety by proposing a new connection between two major bike paths. The plan aims to link the Cannonball and Wingra Creek Paths on the city’s south side through a median-separated lane along Fish Hatchery Road.

Details of the Bike Path Connection

This initiative hopes to improve safety on Fish Hatchery Road, which experiences heavy traffic, averaging around 30,000 vehicles daily. Aaron Canton, the project manager and designer from Madison, expressed that connecting the two bike paths has been a priority for some time.

Completion of the Cannonball Path Corridor

According to Canton, this project represents the completion of the Cannonball Path corridor, originating from the Military Ridge State Trail and extending to the Wingra Path. The Wingra Creek Path further connects with the Capital City State Trail, significantly expanding access for bikers.

Increasing Bike Usage

In 2024 alone, approximately 612,000 bikers used the Wingra Path and Capital City Trail combined. Recent upgrades at Cottage Grove and Dempsey Roads, including a new bike signal, have already contributed to a 208 percent increase in bike traffic.

• 30,000 cars pass Fish Hatchery Road daily.
• 612,000 bikers recorded on the Wingra Path and Cap City Trail in 2024.
• 208% increase in bike traffic due to recent upgrades.

Community Impact and Future Prospects

Angela Kita, a dedicated bike commuter, highlighted the importance of connected bike paths. She pointed out that while experienced bikers may navigate safely, enhancements are crucial for less confident riders and children.

Kita hopes that these improvements will encourage more individuals to embrace biking as a practical transportation option. “I hope more people are able to feel comfortable and safe to do it and realize how much more fun it is,” she commented.

Approval and Future Plans

The proposal needs the backing of Madison’s Transportation Commission, Board of Public Works, and Common Council. Canton anticipates approvals early this year, aiming to initiate construction in the summer.

This is the second attempt to connect these bike paths. The initial design involved routing along a railroad track but was halted following opposition from the Wisconsin and Southern Railroad. Canton remains optimistic about the potential for future connections, should circumstances change with the railroad.

In summary, Madison is advancing its bike infrastructure to enhance safety and connectivity, fostering a more bike-friendly environment for residents.