Spring has brought extraordinary energy to San Damiano Park, and with it, a major milestone for our shared vision. In April, the Monona City Council unanimously approved Phase I of the San Damiano Master Plan, a transformational step toward making this breathtaking 10-acre lakeside property more welcoming, accessible, and vibrant for all. With plans to add public piers, limited parking, engagement and play spaces, and the adaptive reuse of the historic Frank Allis House, including much-needed restrooms and kitchen facilities, we are building a destination on Lake Monona that people will return to again and again.
This exciting announcement has been met with tremendous community enthusiasm. Recent press coverage, in the Isthmus, Wisconsin State Journal, and on NBC15, has helped shine a spotlight on the possibilities ahead. Our celebration at the Muskellounge brought together supporters, partners, and neighbors to toast what this moment means for Monona and our community. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has helped bring this vision to life and look forward to sharing more as Phase I begins to take shape.
Spring has also reminded us just how alive San Damiano Park can be when filled with community. From welcoming families and bird enthusiasts during World Migratory Bird Day, to laughter and connection at our first Sunset Games gathering, to the incredible generosity shown during our Spring Lawn Games: Croquet Classic fundraiser this past weekend, each event has helped activate the park in meaningful and joyful ways. Thank you to everyone who attended, volunteered, sponsored, and celebrated with us, you are helping build the future of this special place.
And there is so much more to come. June will be one of the most exciting months yet at San Damiano Park, as we are proud to welcome back the Harry Whitehorse International Wood Sculpture Festival, where artists will once again transform wood into works of art along our shoreline. As Loop the Lake participants navigate a detour through the park, we look forward to welcoming many new visitors to experience this scenic space for the first time. On June 21, join us for Make Music Day, a free afternoon of live local music, food carts, refreshments, and lakeside celebration to welcome summer.
Then, on June 25, we proudly launch Concerts on the Shore, our free summer music series presented by WVMO 98.7, the Voice of Monona, with legendary Lil’ Ed & The Blues Imperials headlining an unforgettable evening on Lake Monona. With food carts, beverages, and the stunning backdrop of the Whitehorse Sculpture Festival, it promises to be a joyful gathering for the whole community. Be sure to save the date for July 16, when the series continues with Armchair Boogie.
Thank you for being part of this growing movement. Together, we are creating something truly special at San Damiano Park, and we can’t wait to welcome you back to the shore this summer.
With gratitude,
Cara Erickson
Executive Director, Friends of San Damiano