Madison Media Digest: Education, Transportation, Public Spaces

Here’s what we were reading while waiting for our burger and beer at the 20-year-old Great Dane:

Education

Sherman Middle School Principal Mike Hernandez says the free lunch program at his school is making a noticeable difference. The Madison Metropolitan School District took down its website for much of last week to address a security flaw. Educational diversity efforts at UW-Madison are ongoing under the direction of Patrick Sims. UW-Madison announced Saturday it is going to be cashing a large check. 

Transportation

A study calls for new roads to relieve congestion on the Beltline rather than rail or upgrades to the bus system. Nino Amato and Jabril Faraj say more public transit options are vital for Baby Boomers and millennials. The city council proposed regulations for ride-sharing companies Uber and Lyft, which Alder Scott Resnick says likely would not be accepted by the firms. Madison traffic reporter Katie Austin is leaving her radio position and beginning a new job at the state unemployment office. Craig Thompson says pundits are misreading the results of this month’s transportation fund referendum. 

Public Spaces

Finalists for the redevelopment of the 21-acre Hill Farms land will be announced today. The Capital Area Regional Planning Commission rejected a plan to allow development in northern Fitchburg because of its proximity to wetlands. The city no longer supports a new concert venue on East Washington Avenue, citing traffic and parking concerns. Theft of Memorial Union Terrace chairs have risen this year, with 250 of the 1,000 chairs being stolen.