Plans for new rehab center in South Madison appear stalled

Catholic Charities has decided not to relocate its substance abuse program to South Madison, after the planned move drew mixed reaction from community members, a city alder said.

Catholic Charities had been in talks to purchase the Wingra Clinic at 701 Dane Street in South Madison and relocate its substance abuse program, the Hope Haven Center. Hope Haven is a long-term inpatient drug rehabilitation program.

John Strasser, alder of the 14th District, said that he didn't want to speak for Catholic Charities but that the project needed more "community buy in" to move forward. Catholic Charities could not be reached for comment late Monday.

Some community members saw the move providing a needed service in the area, while other residents feared the move would increase crime in the area. An informational meeting to discuss the proposal had been scheduled for Sept. 9 at the Labor Temple, but was canceled on Monday.