Page 2 - October 2025 Newsletter

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

TYWANA GERMAN

Sauk Prairie Area Chamber of Commerce

We are Listening: Survey Results on the Future of Water Street
In September, we asked for your input on the upcoming 2027 redesign of Water Street (State Road 60
Connector) in Sauk City — and your voices came through loud and clear.

325 community members and 24 downtown businesses and organizations took time to share their thoughts
on whether Water Street should remain with angled parking or shift to parallel parking in order to create a
wider, more walkable pedestrian space. Thank you to everyone who participated! Here's what we learned:

Businesses Are Split — But Support Enhancements
48% of businesses opposed switching to parallel parking
35% supported the change
17% were neutral or unclear
While the loss of approximately 29–30 parking spaces was a key concern (especially regarding senior and customer
access), many businesses still expressed strong support for improvements such as:
Wider sidewalks to improve flow and customer experience (62% in favor)
Outdoor seating or displays that could enhance visibility and sales (58% in favor)
Greener, more attractive streetscapes with trees and planters
Community Voices: A Close Divide
51% of community respondents preferred parallel parking
46% wanted to keep angled parking
3% were neutral
The most desired features included:
Trees and greenery (179 mentions)
Outdoor seating areas (175 mentions)
Public art and a more vibrant, pedestrian-friendly atmosphere
That said, many respondents raised valid concerns:
Loss of parking and convenience
Safety of parallel parking near the bridge
Outdoor dining feasibility along a high-traffic corridor

A Common Thread: Balance Is Key
While opinions vary, one theme came through clearly: people care deeply about the future of downtown
Sauk City. Whether prioritizing parking access or envisioning a more walkable, inviting streetscape, the
community is engaged — and wants a solution that serves both businesses and visitors well.

What’s Next?
The Village Board is reviewing this feedback in preparation for decisions about the final
design. There's still time to share your initial thoughts or reactions to the survey results
— especially if seeing the data has sparked new ideas or perspectives.

Email your feedback directly to:

executivedirector@saukprairie.com
We want to make sure all voices are heard as we shape the future of our historic
downtown.
Let’s work together to make Water Street a place where both businesses and
people can thrive.