What's Happening in the Parks

Basketball Referee Apprenticeship Program, launched through Kids Need Opportunities at Warner (KNOW) at the Warner Park Community Recreation Center. Designed for teens and young adults ages 14-21, the program creates a clear, structured pathway from sports fan to certified official. 

The installation marks a first for the city—a public space dedicated to commemorating the four-legged family members who have touched so many lives. "This is the first of its kind in the city," said Pierce Sullivan, a board member of the Madison Parks Foundation, the organization that donated the custom sculpture. 

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.

The McPike Park dedication ceremony took place in April 2018 to officially rename Madison's Central Park to McPike Park in honor of Milton McPike. McPike was the principal of East High School from 1979 to 2002, and the dedication celebrated his legacy as a beloved and influential educator in the community. 

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.