For the first time in the history of the Bradley Center, the Legislature is considering state support for seriously needed upgrades to preserve and maintain the facility, a gift to the people of Wisconsin by the late community benefactor Jane Bradley Pettit. We applaud that move. The Bradley Center has always been the people’s building. The time has come for the people to invest in its successful future.

The Bradley Center was built without tax dollars and has operated for 21 years with no public funding. At the same time, it has generated tens of millions of dollars in state and local taxes and has been a significant driver of economic development. Every penny generated by the Bradley Center has been invested back into the facility, its tenants and the community.

Today, however, the need for capital repairs and building system replacements is outpacing the ability of the Bradley Center to pay for them. New revenue is essential to overcoming the Bradley Center’s physical, business and economic challenges. State support will help to keep the facility a viable economic engine and will ensure that Wisconsin continues to be a top destination for sports and the nation’s best touring shows.

Some have suggested it may be time to consider a new arena, but that idea currently has little consensus or momentum. To continue its history as a major regional entertainment magnet and a vibrant community asset, the Bradley Center needs attention and help now. We are pleased that many of our leaders in Madison share the view that it’s important to help this valuable state asset.

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about the future of the Bradley Center. I encourage you to click on the links at left and below. Sign up for updates and tours and learn more about our efforts to preserve and maintain this state treasure.