West Rail Corridor:
Railroads Transform Madison
Sunday, October 4, 2:00-3:45
Registration is required.
Registration coming soon.
Join us as we collaborate with the Madison Trust for Historic Preservation on a guided walking tour through the historic West Rail Corridor.
In the 19th century, the West Rail Corridor area was a hotbed of businesses that depended on the railroad to transport raw materials and finished products, as well as businesses that served railroad passengers and workers. This area, birthplace of a number of long-term Madison businesses, includes repurposed historic buildings that are home to offices, businesses, and residents. This will be a nostalgic, up-close look at Madison's railroad history through many architectural gems.
Leading the tour will be PLATO Board member Steve Sparks. The tour will accommodate up to 18 pre- registered guests. It will last approximately 1 ¾ hours and involves walking about one mile. While this tour is on sidewalks and the bike path, some sections are uneven and we will be crossing busy streets.
Comfortable shoes for walking are strongly recommended. Tour participants are encouraged to bring water with them as the tour will be taking place entirely outdoors and shade will vary. Walking tours will happen rain or shine. In the case of inclement weather, consider bringing an umbrella. There are no restrooms on the tour.
To improve the guest experience on this tour, an audio headphone system will be used. The tour will start near the Brittingham Boathouse and begin promptly at 2 p.m., Sunday October 4.
Leading the tour will be PLATO Board member Steve Sparks. A certified Toastmaster, he holds a master's degree in journalism and mass communication. In retirement Steve is doing consulting work in communications and indulging his interest in history by working as a tour guide at the Wisconsin State Capitol and as a docent for the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Monona Terrace and for Historic Architecture Walking Tours through the Madison Trust for Historic Preservation.
Registration: Cost is $20/person with all the registration money donated to the Madison Trust for Historic Preservation.
The registration deadline is Friday, October 2. PLATO refunds an event fee if cancelled prior to the registration deadline. Refunds after the registration deadline are only processed if a wait-listed registrant can attend.
A tour may be cancelled for extreme weather or lightning. We will alert guests at least four hours in advance by email. Purchased tickets will be refunded.
Parking: You can park in the Brittingham Boathouse parking lot (701 W. Brittingham Place) or a nearby street.
Questions? - Contact tour organizer Steve Sparks at swsparks@charter.net
