McPike Park Dedication

press release: Ten years ago, on March 29, 2008, Madison lost one of its heroes. Milton McPike, former principal of East High School, served our community as a leader, an educator and an inspiration to all who met him.

On April 4, we will pay tribute to his legacy. The community is invited to join Mayor Paul Soglin, Alder Marsha Rummel, Madison Parks Foundation, Madison Parks and the family and friends of Milton McPike at the park, located at 202 S. Ingersoll St., on Wednesday, April 4, at 3:00 pm.  The dedication will include performances by the East High School marching band, the reading of the Mayoral Proclamation recognizing April 4 as Milton McPike Day and the unveiling of the new McPike Park sign.

The idea to honor Mr. McPike first came to Stephanie Franklin, Executive Director of the Madison Parks Foundation more than two years ago. “Milt had such a presence to him and so many lives were touched by meeting him,” said Stephanie. “I knew there just had to be a way we [Madison Parks Foundation] could celebrate his life and contributions he made to the community.” 

Through the campaign efforts of the Madison Parks Foundation, and a unanimous approval of the Madison Parks Board of Park Commissions, the City of Madison will honor is legacy in an upcoming dedication ceremony officially renaming Central Park to McPike Park.

“I literally cannot think of a person more deserving of this recognition than Milt McPike,” conveyed Bob Hemauer, Madison Park Foundation Board Member. “I had a chance to speak with many people and neighborhood groups over the course of this effort and I can't tell you how inspiring it was to hear how many lives he touched so deeply through his service to our community, and I'm excited that the City of Madison is honoring his legacy in a way commensurate with his impact."

The 200 block of Ingersoll Street will be closed to vehicle traffic from 2:00 to 4:30 pm on this day.