Over 40 years ago, a dedicated group of neighbors came together to preserve what is now Willy Street Park, successfully preventing its development into a fast food restaurant. Today, the Willy Street Park Society is collaborating with the Wisconsin State Historical Society to create an archive and oral history of the park, preserving its rich legacy for future generations.

Though Willy Street Park remains private land, it operates much like a public park, welcoming all. But because it’s maintained by the not-for-profit Willy Street Park Society, the park doesn’t receive the same city funding and maintenance as public parks. Neighbors are invited to take an active role in keeping the park beautiful—whether by picking up litter during visits or volunteering for a variety of tasks, from gardening to administrative support.

Willy Street Park

1002 Williamson St.

Madison, WI 53703