Madison sits on an isthmus between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona in Dane County, serving as both the state capital and home to the University of Wisconsin's flagship campus. The city's economy revolves around state government, the university, and a strong healthcare and biotech sector anchored by UW Health and Epic Systems in nearby Verona. The service area extends from Middleton and Monona through the near west and east sides, out to Sun Prairie, Fitchburg, and the rural towns of the surrounding Yahara River watershed. With over 60,000 students and a workforce heavily concentrated in public sector and knowledge economy jobs, the city sees distinct seasonal rhythms tied to the academic calendar and legislative sessions.