Most cities call multi-level parking structures “garages.” But in Madison, we park in ramps.

Why? Unclear. Garage is a bit “la dee da.” Maybe it has something to do with all RAMPS. But ever since the first ones were built downtown decades ago, Madison has always used the term “parking ramps.” It’s one small reason why Madison is Madison. 

But starting in 2010, the Madison Parking Utility has been waging a misguided campaign to erase this charming colloquialism from the local lexicon. The city agency insists on calling multi-level parking structures “parking garages” so Madison conforms to the vocabulary of Anytown, USA.

We, the signers of this petition, demand this attack on the Madison vernacular cease immediately and the city, once again, refer to multi-level parking structures as “parking ramps” in all of its official business. 

Tell the Madison Parking Utility they may take our quarters, but they’ll never take our parking ramps!

NO DONATIONS. 

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