Matt Tramel, executive director of Madison’s Central Business Improvement District, told the Cap Times State Street is coming back stronger after the pandemic and numerous changes have evolved the business and arts hub.
Only 10 of the 160 storefronts are empty. Nearly twice as many were empty during the COVID-19 pandemic. And foot traffic is back to pre-pandemic levels, according to a report from Downtown Madison Inc.
In 2019, 5 million people visited State Street. In 2020, when the COVID pandemic began, 2.1 million. In 2024, it rose to 6.7 million, and 2025 is expected to beat that number.
Of the 160 stores, 79% are locally owned. Regional chains represent 8% and 13% are national chains like Target.
