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A Free Community Newspaper Published Bimonthly by the Northside Planning Council

District 18 Alderperson

District 18 Supervisor
By Michele Ritt
District 18 Supervisor
Published: December 2, 2025

Your voice matters: Northside updates

**Neighbors,**

As we head into the holiday season, I want to update you on recent progress in our community and exciting developments ahead for Madison’s Northside.

Packers Avenue Railroad Crossing — completed!

Thank you to everyone who called about the rough railroad tracks on Packers Avenue. Your voices made the difference. The crossing near International Lane was repaired in late October, completing a 4-day closure. Special thanks to Alder Matthews from District 12 for her leadership on this issue. This was a true community effort — your calls and emails pushed this repair forward, and I’m grateful to residents who spoke up and city staff who coordinated with CPKC Railroad.

Warner Park Community Center — opening soon!

Exciting news for our community! The Warner Park Community Center expansion is nearing completion and will reopen by the end of December. After months of construction, we’ll soon have access to both gymnasiums, renovated restrooms, and more programming space. The center will also feature beautiful student-inspired public art celebrating what makes Warner Park a “stable north” for our vibrant community. Get ready to enjoy expanded facilities for recreation, events and gathering with neighbors.

Raemisch Farm Development moving forward

The Planning Commission recently approved part of the final plat for Raemisch Farm Development at 4000–4150 Packers Avenue. This 65-acre project will bring 76 single-family homes, multifamily housing and mixed-use development. The plan includes public parkland, stormwater management, and wetland protection. After years of community discussion, this represents housing opportunities for our neighborhood. Serving on the Planning Commission, I’ll continue advocating for neighborhood-centered decisions as development moves forward, ensuring it addresses community needs while preserving green space.

Your input shapes our neighborhood. Keep reaching out and stay connected – together, we’re building a stronger Northside!

**Happy Holidays, Neighbors!**

Northside News

For 30 years, the Northside News has been a free, trusted source of local news for more than 13,000 Northside households and businesses. Published by the Northside Planning Council, it supports local businesses, community voices, and dozens of local writers while connecting neighbors to what matters most. We’ve already raised over $25,500 from 135+ supporters. With just $4,500 left to raise by December 31, 2025, your donation today helps keep this community resource thriving in print and online.