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We take our neighborhoods for granted, as if they've always been there. But someone set out to form each one of them, drawing a line around a coherent space — typically defined by natural or man-made boundaries — and recruiting their neighbors to join in common pursuits.

By various counts, Madison has around 100 official neighborhoods, plus dozens more homeowners associations and condominium associations, which tend to be centered around a single building or subdivision.

In the next three weeks, the Wisconsin State Journal will be profiling 20 of these neighborhoods. To kick off the project, the newspaper invited leaders in each of Madison's neighborhoods to tell us a little (emphasis on little since space is at a premium here) about what makes their corner of Madison so special.

In most cases we were able to reach the registered neighborhood leaders; in others, the words are condensed from descriptions the neighborhoods provided the city.

Consider it the neighborhood elevator pitch. New to Madison, or looking to relocate? Here is how the people who live there plug the place they live.

1 — Allied Dunn's Marsh*

This eclectic neighborhood mirrors all races and cultures in the greater Madison area, with occupations from laborers to doctors and students. Access to a mall, marsh and the UW Arboretum.

— Neighborhood association statement

1 — Dunn's Marsh*

"It's a nature-lover's paradise with five long-distance bike paths, large community parks, community gardens and huge public open spaces. Neighborhood associations work to make it socially welcoming."

— Mary Mullen

2 — Appalachian Ridge

"We have 18 houses in our neighborhood association. It's a very friendly neighborhood where we all look out for each other. We have two meetings a year: One is a Christmas party and the other is a Labor Day party where we have our annual meeting."

— Ruth G. Johnson

3 — Arbor Hills

"This is a heavily wooded neighborhood of over 500 homes nestled in southwestern Madison next to the Arboretum and within 15 minutes of everything in Madison, including Downtown."

— James W. Cortada

4 — Bay Creek

"Between Monona Bay, Wingra Creek and the Arboretum, Bay Creek is a quiet neighborhood with bike paths, restaurants, coffee shops, schools, a public pool and access to all of Madison."

— Bob Stoffs

5 — Berkley Oaks

Home to modest ranch homes and apartments. Residents enjoy the closeness of shopping, recreational activities and the short walking distance to elementary and middle schools.

— Neighborhood association statement

6 — Blackhawk

Known for its beautiful homes, Blackhawk is a regular part of the "Parade of Homes." Close to Pleasant View Golf Course, schools and more than 40 acres of parks and green space.

— Neighborhood association statement

7 — Bram's Addition

"We're a multigenerational, culturally diverse neighborhood consisting of single-family homes, apartments and duplexes. We're home to Penn Park, which hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year."

— Cheryl Roeben

8 — Brentwood

"Because Brentwood falls between Maple Bluff and the Berkley Oaks area, we are probably one of the more diverse neighborhoods in terms of income."

— Derrick Herndon

9 — Bridge-Lakepoint

A small, quaint neighborhood south of Lake Monona. Over the last several years, it has transformed from primarily renters to a mix of renter- and owner-occupied housing.

— Neighborhood association statement

10 — Burke Heights

A quiet, out-of-the-way area proud of how long residents have lived here. Houses sell very quickly because of their well-kept appearance and the proximity to Highway 30.

— Neighborhood association statement

11 — Burr Oaks

"Burr Oaks, with one of the most diverse parts of the city, has the potential to become a great gateway into the heart of the university and city of Madison."

— Dale Cox

12 — Capitol Neighborhoods

"Capitol Neighborhoods encompasses the heart of Madison and projects the energy of the community, serving as both a Downtown neighborhood and a crossroads for community interaction and engagement."

— Jeff Vercauteren

13 — Capitol View

An area of modest single-family homes on large wooded lots and apartment living. One of the best-kept secrets of the area is the speculator views of the state Capitol.

— Neighborhood association statement

14 — Cardinal Glenn

"We are part of a growing area that is five minutes from everything yet has a country feel. Young families through retired couples enjoy our park, pond and quiet atmosphere."

— Austin Krueger

15 — Carpenter-Ridgeway

"Our neighborhood has it all: city conveniences, woods, walking and bike paths, Starkweather Creek, gardens, parks, art, sculpture, sports and a great neighborhood association. City living with a country feel."

— Bonnie Melahn

16 — Cherokee Park

"Surrounded by Cherokee Lake and Cherokee Park, the Yahara River, a nationally protected wildlife preserve (Cherokee Marsh) and Cherokee Golf Course — Cherokee Park: Where nature is home."

— Alison Lindsay Mares

17 — Country Grove

"A well-maintained residential area in the southwest corner of Madison that has matured to a diverse and family-friendly neighborhood, active in maintaining its sense of community."

— Mike Friedenreich

18 — Crestwood

"Crestwood is the neighborhood name chosen by the Wisconsin Cooperative Housing Association when founded in 1936. The neighborhood has 177 homes. Our neighbor to the west is Owen Conservation Park."

— Barry Owens

19 — Dudgeon-Monroe

"Friendly people, active association, beautiful lake, many parks, a college and the university are neighbors. Great shopping, people rush to buy homes here, stay forever and wish it were longer."

— Daryl Sherman

20 — East Buckeye

Single-family homes with friendly neighbors makes this a great place to live. A wooded greenway and detention pond brings a sense of North Woods living to our urban neighborhood.

— Neighborhood association statement

21 — Eastmorland

"Next to Lake Monona and Olbrich, Eastmorland's friendly, active community of 1,600 households enjoys many parks and conveniences. A development will enlarge the city's second-busiest branch library, Pinney."

— Kathy Soukup

22 — Eken Park

Small, quiet neighborhood within walking distance of popular amenities. The neighborhood's modest, architecturally diverse homes are attractive to those young and old, singles and families.

— Neighborhood Association statement

23 — Elvehjem

"Elvehjem Neighborhood, on the East Side, is predominantly residential with Elvehjem Elementary at its center, three city parks and an active neighborhood association with a full calendar of events."

— Justin Martin

24 — Emerson East

Developed in the 1920s to house workers in nearby factories, including Oscar Mayer and the French Battery Co., the neighborhood is safe, friendly, diversified – and affordable.

— Neighborhood association statement

25 — Faircrest

This established neighborhood on the West Side is home to a number of public schools, an outdoor swim club, and plenty of park and green space.

— Neighborhood association statement

26 — Glacier Ridge

"Glacier Ridge Neighborhood Association is located on the Southwest Side of Madison and is made up of the Glacier Crossing and Ice Age Ridge neighborhoods."

— David Hull

27 — Glen Oak Hills

Some of Madison's quietest streets weave through this West Side neighborhood, surrounded by a number of beautiful parks including Owen Conservation Park, a green space covering dozens of acres.

— Neighborhood association statement

28 — Glendale

"The Glendale neighborhood is quiet, unassuming, conveniently located and close to all three public schools. Edna Taylor Conservation Park is relatively unknown and a hidden gem."

— Jake Altwegg

29 — Greenbush

"Originally settled by Italian and German families, this neighborhood is a diverse home to students and young families near the zoo, UW campus and Monona Bay."

— John Perkins

30 — Greentree

"Greentree is home for more than 700 families who joined together for nearly 55 years to create a community to enjoy a good quality of life in good company."

— Larry Sperling

31 — Hawthorne

The Hawthorne Neighborhood Association promotes a spirit of camaraderie among residents and cooperation in community projects while providing residents a voice on matters affecting the community.

— Neighborhood association statement

32 — Heritage Heights

"Our 1960s-80s neighborhood has a combination of friendly, caring, concerned and hard-working people. Our neighborhood consists of 800 homes surrounding a sanctuary and school."

— Heather Sokasits

33 — Hiestand

Named for Jacob Hiestand, who owned a farm nearby, the neighborhood includes single-family homes, apartment complexes, condominiums, multi-family units, senior housing, two parks and over 30 businesses.

— Neighborhood association statement

34 — High Crossing

Strategically located along the I-90/94/39 corridor, High Crossing offers a mix of commercial-office development and residential uses with easy access to the Dane County Regional Airport and East Towne Mall.

— Neighborhood association statement

35 — The Highlands

"Planned by Ossian Cole Simonds, a leading landscape architect of his time, The Highlands is a community of narrow, tree-lined streets curving gracefully through a patchwork of woodlands and clearings."

— Jane McMurray

36 — Hill Farms

"University Hill Farms has nearly 1,000 homes in the multi-generational, family-friendly residential area. The neighborhood is a historic district based on mid-20th century architecture."

— Jacki Lawton

37 — Indian Springs

"Nestled south of the Beltline off Rimrock Road, Indian Springs is quiet, yet flourishing. With an abundance of green space and great bike paths, it's a prime place to recreate."

— Isaac Dorsch

38 — Junction Ridge

We have a park with a basketball court, walking trails and friendly neighbors. There is a July 4th parade, a summer picnic and Christmas decoration contest. A community garden is planned.

— Neighborhood association statement

39 — Kennedy Heights

"Since 1986, Kennedy Heights Community Center has provided high-quality, dynamic programs and services to a diverse North Side community of children, youth and adults."

— Merri Oxley

40 — Lake Edge

We seek to facilitate friendships, connect neighbors with city officials, promote neighborhood beautification and improvement, assist neighbors in need and provide a network to help residents manage local problems.

— Neighborhood association statement

41 — Lake View Hill

"Beautiful with natural spaces, wildlife and spectacular views abounding; good housing choices from modest to luxury; diverse, caring neighbors; small-town feel within a city."

— Char Tortorice

42 — Leopold

The Leopold Neighborhood Association works hard to address the issues of neighborhood safety and security by building a h3 sense of community and cohesiveness.

— Neighborhood association statement

43 — Lerdahl Park

"Quietly nestled on Lake Mendota's north shore; our lovely neighborhood park at the center, plus Troy Gardens' urban farm, gardens, community plots; picturesque walks to Warner Beach and Governor's Island."

— Amy Marsman

44 — Madison West

"Our mission is to promote social, economic and civic engagement, and to foster a community of shared values."

— Joseph Ryan

45 — Majestic Oaks

"We are a small manufactured community with a mixture of new and older homes, young families to older retired, close-knit. We know all our neighbors and care for them."

— Bill Grove

46 — Maple-Prairie

"A Southwest Side neighborhood of caring homeowners with lots of kids and pets."

— Matt Hanson

47 — Marquette

Abundant in 19th century architectural styles, the neighborhood is home to two historic districts, Willy Street with its locally owned shops, restaurants, and entertainment establishments, and several summer festivals.

— Neighborhood association statement

48 — Mayfair Park

"Upcoming, walkable, hip, regentrification, East Side, large yards, passionate."

— Hilton Jones

49 — McClellan Park

Our neighborhood includes five subdivisions with housing options for all ages and incomes. For those who like traditional neighborhoods, one area has arts and craft design, front porches and alleys.

— Neighborhood association statement

50 — Meadowood

"Meadowood is a wonderfully diverse neighborhood. We have economic and racial diversity, renters and single-family homes, young families and residents who have lived there since the late 1950s when the area was developed."

— Sally Stix

51 — Mendota Hills

"Our neighborhood is one of Madison's undiscovered gems, along with the North Side. Bordering Warner Park, there is easy access to walking, biking, Lake Mendota and the Community Recreation Center."

— Susan Hill

52 — Midvale Heights

"In 1954, a century after settlement, Midvale Heights was established. Today, the square mile between the Bison Prairie Gateway and University Research Park is home to families who embrace community."

— Ed Rogers

53 — Monona Bay

"This is a Downtown neighborhood of many cultures and traditions united by the beauty of Brittingham Park and Lake Monona Bay. It is a place of creativity and wonder."

— Mary Berryman Agard

54 — Moorland-Rimrock

Single-family homes and apartments provide a setting to enjoy urban and rural life. The Nine Spring E-Way, Capital City Bike Trail and neighborhood parks bring nature and recreation to residents.

— Neighborhood association statement

55 — Nakoma

"With a rich history and plenty of access to flora and fauna, the Nakoma neighborhood is a relaxing departure from your average city community."

— Keri Schlecht

56 — Nobel Park

A great choice for those starting out to those entering retirement. Modest ranch-style homes on larger lots, mature trees and quiet streets. Walk to Warner Park, Mallards Stadium, Troy Gardens.

— Neighborhood association statement

57 — North Lake Mendota

Lakefront homes to contemporary ranch and split-level homes, with Meadow Ridge Park and Cherokee Marsh providing vast acreage of open space and natural beauty.

— Neighborhood association statement

58 — Oakbridge Community

"Homeowners spanning singles, young parents and those enjoying retirement. Conveniently located near shopping, two parks, and schools. An annual July 4th parade and picnic."

— Carol Hay

59 — Orchard Ridge

"Orchard Ridge neighborhood association roots go back to 1952 as a community club to provide a welcoming, vibrant, social organization."

— Bill Bremer

60 — Parkwood Hills

West Side neighborhood home to Muir Elementary, Jefferson Middle School and Memorial High School. Fourth of July parade, Halloween bonfire, Santa visits, Easter egg hunt, spring fling, garage sale.

— Neighborhood association statement

61 — Prairie Hills

"Prairie Hills: Great location, close to West Towne Mall, Elver Park, can bike everywhere. Great recreation winter and summer. Community gardens, green space, parks. Variety in housing, people."

— Gloria Meyer

62 — Regent

"Regent is a walkable neighborhood filled with diverse housing options — from modern apartments to historic mansions — a grocery co-op, restaurants, parks and, most importantly, great neighbors."

— Dan O'Callaghan

63 — Richmond Hill

"Upscale mature East Side neighborhood, family-friendly, dog-friendly, apartments, condos and homes. Beautiful 10-acre park. Needs more close entertainment, new development needs to pass faster."

— Tiffany Tobias

64 — Ridgewood

Born during the housing boom of the late 1990s and early 2000s. Two-story modern homes and split-level ranches, with two major parks and easy access to I-39/90/94.

— Neighborhood association statement

65 — Rocky Bluff

"Friendly, close-knit Near West Side neighborhood. Residents dwell in an urban forest on quiet, mature tree-lined streets and enjoy the trails in beautiful Quarry Park."

— Erik Haroldson

66 — Rolling Meadows

Known for its tree-lined streets, abundant parks and caring neighbors. Ranch and split-level homes with well-manicured lawns and easy access to Highway 51 and the interstate.

— Neighborhood association statement

67 — Sandburg

A diverse residential mix within a common and surprisingly compact geography. Soccer and cricket leagues at Reindahl Park provide an international flavor. Close to East Towne Mall and the airport.

— Neighborhood association statement

68 — Sauk Creek

A wooded, winding greenway makes this an ideal place for nature lovers. Residents can also enjoy basketball, soccer and playground time at two parks. Easy access to West Towne Mall.

— Neighborhood association statement

69 — Schenk-Atwood-Starkweather-Yahara

"SASY is Madison on a good day. You don't see it all at once. You live here and discover the places and the people, bit by bit. It becomes your neighborhood. It makes you proud."

— Brad Hinkfuss

70 — Secret Places

"This east Madison neighborhood with McFarland schools is flush with friendly walkways and nature paths, and its lush green space alive with a trickling creek, grassy swales and community gathering places."

— Mike Pfohl

71 — Sheridan Triangle

"Compact North Side neighborhood with homes surrounding a small playground. No sidewalks gives the neighborhood a rural feel and affordable home prices are attracting young families."

— Pamela O'Donnell

72 — Sherman

"The North Side's Sherman Neighborhood is diverse, friendly, wacky (in a great way), convenient, outspoken; artistic, walkable, pollinator-friendly, business-friendly, family-friendly; bike riders, dog walkers, dancers, gardeners, writers, business people, poets, dreamers."

— Dolores Kester

73 — Sherman Village

Quiet streets, modest ranch homes, and walking distance to schools. Wooded, hilly terrain adds a taste of the North Woods. Four superb community centers within one mile.

— Neighborhood association statement

74 — Skyview Meadows

We're extremely family orientated, with several events that bring children adults together. Many residents are from other towns, states and even countries. Elver Park is a stone's throw away.

— Neighborhood association statement

75 — Skyview Terrace

"With large yards and no sidewalks, the neighborhood has a country feel just six miles from the capital. Neighbor gatherings several times a year give it a real sense of community."

— Alan Kalker

76 — South Campus

A student-populated neighborhood close to Camp Randall, the Kohl Center, and Southeast Recreational Facility (SERF). Easy access to campus, recreational venues, restaurants and shops.

— Neighborhood association statement

77 — Sprecher East

"On the eastern edge of Madison is Sprecher East, full of friendly neighbors, a large park, and generally quiet streets for walking or kids to play."

— Dave Lytle

78 — Spring Harbor

"Spring Harbor is a Madison neighborhood along Lake Mendota on the West Side that is home to more than 1,200 households."

— Aaron Crandall

79 — State-Langdon

Langdon Street acts as the spine of this architecturally rich area adjacent to campus, with Period Revival-style fraternity and sorority houses now part of a National Register Historic District.

— Neighborhood association statement

80 — Stone Meadows

Home to Madison's newest elementary school (Chavez), Stone Meadows has access to natural and recreational resources including parks, bike trails and a dog park.

— Neighborhood association statement

81 — Stonefield Woods-Ridge

One of Madison's smaller neighborhoods, Stonefield Woods-Ridge offers an ideal setting for families, with three schools, a small commercial district and a few large green spaces.

— Neighborhood association statement

82 — Summit Woods

"Small friendly neighborhood off the beaten path, but on the Southwest Bike Path. Two parks, several Little Free Libraries, a hardware store and two restaurants all add to the ambiance."

— Jocelyn Riley

83 — Sunset Hills

"Sunset Hills lies south of Hoyt Park. It was named a National Register Historic District in 2015 in recognition of its mid-century architecture."

— Mark Manville

84 — Sunset Village

"Convenient and welcoming Near West Side neighborhood, mostly residential with smaller post-WWII houses nestled under mature trees."

— Sue Reynard

85 — Tenney-Lapham

"Eclectic businesses, walkable and bikeable, traditional older homes yet bursting with new development, close to Downtown; the center of the unicycling and bike polo universes: That is Tenney-Lapham."

— Patty Prime

86 — Truax

City-owned public housing, including the East Madison Community Center, which promotes educational, recreational and community activities for all residents of the area.

— Neighborhood association statement

87 — Twin Oaks

"Twin Oaks is a diverse neighborhood of roughly 100 homes located on the Southeast Side of Madison. With various community green spaces, it makes for a wonderful morning or evening walk and areas for visiting with neighbors."

— Kristin Soderholm

88 — VanChaMasShe

"Four streets meet to create the perfect neighborhood. Charming, quaint, walkable, awesome neighbors, longest-running 4th of July celebration (67 years)."

— Darcy Dederich

89 — Vera Court

At the heart of this close-knit, multifamily community lies the Vera Court Neighborhood Center: a place for young and old to engage in educational, community, and recreational activities.

— Neighborhood association statement

90 — Vilas

A mix of academics, professionals and students gives Vilas an artistic, lively and intellectual atmosphere, with a neighborhood-oriented commercial corridor. Walkers, bikers and runners have easy access to the UW Arboretum.

— Neighborhood association statement

91 — Walnut Grove

"Walnut Grove is an established, quiet, neighborhood of some 300 well-maintained suburban West Side homes. It offers a park, bus lines, nearby shopping, a private greenway system and historically solid property values."

— Eric C. Lewandowski

92 — Waunona

"Hidden gem along the south side of Lake Monona. Many are familiar with it while biking around the Lake Monona Loop. Residents love the peaceful and convenient location."

— Josh Lavik

93 — Westhaven Trails

Over 17 acres of open space and trails, close to major transportation arterials, shopping malls and other retail establishments. An attractive, affordable, and convenient place to call home.

— Neighborhood association statement

94 — Westmorland

"We are vibrant and friendly, centered around beautiful Westmorland Park. We host many events like our annual 4th of July celebration, Halloween parade/party and others."

— Emily Feinstein

95 — Wexford Ridge

Within walking distance of public schools (Jefferson Middle and Memorial High School are located across the street) and West Towne Mall. Home to the Lussier Community Education Center.

— Neighborhood association statement

96 — Wexford Village

"Wexford Village residents enjoy extensive greenways with paths for walking and bicycling and a large park. Numerous neighborhood events encourage residents to connect with the neighborhood."

— Matt Nelson

97 — Whitetail Ridge

One of the newer residential developments on the North Side. Traditional homes with two-car garages are typical for the area. Several elementary and a middle school within walking distance.

— Neighborhood association statement

98 — Woodland Hills

Close to major shopping areas while relatively private and quiet. Many residences have passive solar, super insulation, alternative energy and earth shelter features; others are contemporary with natural wood siding.

— Neighborhood association statement

99 — Worthington Park

Residents enjoy the playground and green space in Worthington Park, attend community meetings, host special events and stroll along the banks of Starkweather Creek or adjacent bike path.

— Neighborhood association statement