The Building

Building Black

When you walk through The Center’s doors, all of your senses will be deeply immersed in the richness and resilience of Black culture.

This three-level, 37,000-square foot destination will be a landmark in the region with its cultural and wellness impact as well as its physical imprint.

Every Year The Center Will Support:

2,000 Students learning Black history and inspired to dream and excel.

5,000 People revitalized by Black performances and art.

250 Seniors sharing their wisdom and experiences across generations.

175 Members of The Center for Black Innovation and Leadership.

The impact of The Center is going to be transformative, it's going to have a multi-generational impact on the city. It's not only going to be amazing for Black folks, it will be amazing for all of Madison.”

Project Timeline

2020

Community focus groups, project conceptualization and project team developement

2021

Business plan development, community listening sessions/surveys, project plan completion, capital campaign kick off

2022

Develop programming and operations, fundraise

2024

Break ground in 2024

2025

Open the doors in 2025

Madison’s Black Renaissance

Thousands will visit from across Wisconsin. Located in South Madison, The Center will build upon the historic beauty and innovation of Black neighborhoods. The Center’s impact will reach beyond the region, by sharing Black history and rich stories of Black trailblazers from across the state, celebrating their important contributions that helped shape Wisconsin life.

Where to Find Us

Situated on 3.5 acres on the 700 block of West Badger Road in the historic Black neighborhood of S. Park Street, The Center will be a prominent landmark along the Beltline when it opens in the fall of 2025.

On the 700 block of West Badger Road and South Park Street, along the West Beltline Highway.