The Hiestand Neighborhood Association gathered in the community room of the new East District Police Station for its annual meeting. Alderperson Lauren Cnare and city staff presented information about a Pedestrian/Bike path proposed for the greenway that connects Hiestand and Honeysuckle Parks and other improvements to Hiestand Park. Copies of the Neighborhood Plan which was just presented to the Madison Common Council were distributed and reviewed. A copy of the plan can be downloaded at http://www.cityofmadison.com/planning/hiestand/pdf/HiestandPlan1006.pdf.

Presentations were made by an East Madison police officer on recent crime statistics for the neighborhood and by the Neighborhood Watch coordinator who encouraged residents to consider participating in that program. The Fit City Coordinator from the City-County Health Department also made a presentation on developing walking routes in the neighborhood.

Neighborhood Association President Sue Hankes announced that the neighborhood was in line to receive funding from the Parks Department for a park shelter (with lighting and portable toilets) and a resurfaced parking lot at Hiestand Park as well a grant to improve signage in the Hiestand Woods highlighting native vegetation and walking paths. She also announced that a Friends of Hiestand Park group was being formed to help plan these changes. Interested parties can contact Jeanne Marshall.

Other neighborhood improvements will include neighborhood identification signs as well as future activities to address traffic and safety concerns, land use and creatively connecting the neighborhood. The Association steering committee has worked with the city staff for a year to bring about improvements that will enhance our neighborhood.

The Association needs you! It's membership renewal time. Memberships are 10$ per household. (Cash or Check) Whether you're a new member, or renewing, we need your help to keep Hiestand Neighborhood a great place to live. Member benefits include a newsletter to keep you informed about what's happening. Don't be left out! Join us by becoming a member.