This wasn't just another ribbon-cutting ceremony. It was a milestone in our ongoing commitment to ensure that all 295+ parks in Madison's system are welcoming and accessible to everyone in our community. 

Our Goodman Pool Access Scholarships program reaches far beyond simply opening the gate. Since 2006, we've provided scholarships for swimming lessons, helping kids develop crucial water safety skills while building confidence and making memories. But our commitment doesn't stop there.

This is the story of how a determined group of citizens, led by two remarkable men, created the foundation of Madison's beloved park system in just 46 years—all through private donations, volunteer effort, and an unwavering belief that beautiful public spaces belonged to everyone.

When the Madison Parks Foundation received a $750,000 donation to renovate the aging golf course, the vision extended far beyond replacing divots and updating fairways. The goal? Reimagine what a public golf space could be. 

This summer, that magic became accessible to even more families in Madison with the opening of a brand new water sprayground at the Jeff Erlanger Playground at Rennebohm Park.

Inspired by the Frautschi’s gift, and by Jeff Erlanger’s legacy, the Oscar Rennebohm Foundation has also now stepped up with $100,000 to help build an accessible playground at Oscar Rennebohm Park on Madison’s West Side in 2022. That accessible playground will be named after Jeff Erlanger.