Guy Smith

Calling All Strong Swimmers! Milwaukee County Parks Hosting New “Express” Lifeguard Training Sessions

Ribbon Cutting on New Lyons Park Playground

New southwest side playground improves accessibility for children and families.

Supervisor Adds Domes Project to 2025 Budget

Board advances plan to redevelop the Domes, transfer operations to nonprofit.

Historical Marker Being Removed From Milwaukee’s Last Indigenous Burial Mound

Milwaukee County Parks removing marker in Lake Park.

Paving the Way to Progress: Groundbreaking for Little Menomonee River Parkway Trail Project Begins

Milwaukee County Parks to Respectfully Remove Indigenous Burial Mound Marker in Lake Park

Milwaukee County Replacing Its Oldest Playground

And it's only happening after a special design flourish was added.

Supervisor Eckblad to Participate in Mitchell Airport Park Playground Groundbreaking Monday

Milwaukee County Parks Seeks Public Input in New Trails Initiative to Promote Equity, Health, and Environmental Stewardship

China Lights “Year of the Dragon” Opens in September

Annual festival will include many new lanterns this year, including a brand new dragon.

Parks Opens New Playground at Vogel Park

Neighborhood park on northwest side gets new ADA-accessible park.

Community Celebrates Opening of Vogel Park Playground with Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Molson Coors, Pabst Theater Group and Milwaukee County Parks Announce Vivarium in the Park Concert Series

The FREE Concert Series Starts on July 31 at The Vine Humboldt Beer Garden

Parks Department Joins Pickleball Mania

Free, outdoor pickleball comes to the county parks system.

Parks Planning 10 Miles of New Trails by 2026

Parks sets ambitious goal, plans to focus trail development on "historically underserved communities."

Federal Funds Turn Zablocki Golf Course Synthetic

Synthetic tee boxes and greens at golf course are another ARPA success story.

Officials Celebrate Kletzsch Dam Fish Passage

$3 million project connects fish to 54 miles of habitat that's been out of reach for 80 years.

Parks Foundation Says Donors Uninterested in July 3 Fireworks

Parks foundation has been working with county to find sponsors for annual event.

Zablocki Golf Course Reopens With Synthetic Greens

New greens should save money on water, labor and fertilizer at county-run 9-hole course.

July 3rd Fireworks Canceled

Without a sponsor, annual event is called off by Milwaukee County.

McKinley Beach Reopens After Four Years

Adding and shaping 11,000 cubic yards of sand to create safer, shallower swimming area.

Parks Updating Countywide Trail Plan

Planning process seeks citizen input on future of Milwaukee trail system.

Juneau Park Beer Garden Opens Friday

Beer garden opens for second season in downtown park with lake views.

Cudahy Nature Preserve Receives Old-Growth Forest Designation

Nature preserve recognized by national network of old-growth forests.

Boerner Botanical Gardens Opening 50th Summer Season

The prized public gardens open for the season Wednesday, May 1.

Whitnall Park Beer Garden Opens This Week

Beer garden offering 24 taps and summer pig roasts opens May 1.

Parks Announces Discount Days for Domes, Wehr Nature Center

Special days each month aim to attract more visitors.

Public Golf Courses Open for the Season

12 of 13 county golf courses have opened. Golf has become cash cow for Parks.

South Shore Beer Garden Opens Wednesday

County's 2024 beer garden season begins at South Shore Park.

See The 2024 Traveling Beer Garden Schedule

New stop added at Kops Park.

Whitnall Beer Garden Opening This Weekend

With unseasonably warm weather, Parks hosting first beer garden pop-up since 2017.

Milwaukee Parks Foundation and Milwaukee County Parks Announce the Launch of Aquatics Ambassadors MKE

New Initiative to Enhance Lifeguard Recruitment and Foster Aquatics Engagement in Greater Milwaukee

Board Funds Crisis Housing in Uptown Neighborhood, Demurs On Southside Dog Park

Plus: A controversial penguin project is funded, funding for southside dog park is paused and 'high-impact' parks projects are funded.

Supervisor Vincent Supportive of Southside Dog Park, Will Continue to Advocate for Approval

New Runway Dog Park? Maybe Not

Funding source and timeline raise concerns, but county board may be split on the issue.

Ice Skating Returns to Red Arrow Park

Free, outdoor ice rink is finally open.

Slice of Ice at Red Arrow Park to Open on Friday, January 5th

County Parks Hiring Lifeguards for 2024, Offering Strong Pay and Incentives

Supervisor Burgelis Commends Board Decision to Allocate Surplus Revenues to Park Maintenance and Capital Projects

Supervisors Hopeful for Pool Openings in 2024

Committee adds funding to Parks budget for this, but more pools are not guaranteed.

So Much for That Free Bike Trail

Supervisors consider killing deal for pedestrian infrastructure that Wauwatosa would pay for.

Supervisor Burgelis Commends Decision to Allocate Surplus Revenues to Park Maintenance and Capital Projects

Supervisor Pushes Kletzsch Park Dam Overlook

$309,000 project would increase access to river, allow portage for canoes, kayaks.

Enjoy These Family Activities at Your Milwaukee County Parks Over Winter Break

Glow Skate, Indoor Skating, Winter Sports at Whitnall, Winter Hiking at Wehr, Indoor Pools, Breakfast with Santa, and Open Gym at the Sports Complex

Parks Hiring Lifeguards for 2024 Summer Season

Offering bonuses to overcome shortage. Training starts in January.

Could Park Friends Help Prevent Illegal Dumping?

County officials think neighborhood groups could watch for and report dumping.

Biden-Harris Administration Announces Largest Ever Clean-up under EPA’s Great Lakes Restoration Initiative to Address Milwaukee Area of Concern

Thanks to President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda, new funding agreement between EPA and partners will invest an estimated $450 million to cleanup of nearly two million cubic yards of contaminated sediments

Domes Costs Shock Supervisors

'I think we're just in shock,' supervisor says on estimate of up to $100 million for Domes.

DNR Funding New Beach for South Shore Park

New South Shore Beach could be constructed in 2024.

Parks Launches Mitchell Park Campaign

Public engagement campaign aimed at building support, awareness for The Domes, Mitchell Park and a potential project.

Groundbreaking Held For Moss Universal Park

First park in county, and perhaps in U.S. that's wholly accessible for people with disabilities.

Fireworks Return to Milwaukee’s Lakefront on July 3rd

27 Pools, Splash Pads and Water Parks Opening in Milwaukee

County boosts the number of facilities it will open for 2023 season.

Johnny’s Hot Sauce Popping Up at 1840 Brewing

Plus: Funky Fresh goes wholesale, Third Space adds food, Juneau Park adds beer garden.

New Beer Garden Opening in Juneau Park

No longer traveling, downtown park will have a summer-long beer garden.

Harley-Davidson Foundation’s $350,000 Investment, Highland Park Renaming Approved by Board

Highland Park To Become Harley Park

The Harley-Davidson Foundation offers $350,000 for park improvements and 10 years of maintenance.

Supervisors Burgelis and Martinez to Host Public Meeting on Jackson Park Drive Project

Cathedral Square Now Features Ice Bar, Immersive Art Exhibit

Milwaukee Downtown plans additional activities, including Broadway-themed ice skating, in coming months.

County Has Open Call for Lifeguards

Parks department hopes to improve lifeguard numbers, open more pools this year.

Washington Park Bridge Replacement Project Moves Forward

Deteriorating Bridges Spanning Washington Park Lagoon will be replaced in late 2023

Brewers Donates Scoreboards to Parks

Brewers Foundation and U.S. Cellular donate $44,000 for new scoreboards in Lincoln and Sherman parks.

Lake Park Ravine Road Bridge Successfully Reopened

Will Public Pools Open in 2023?

Board adds funding to budget, but lifeguard shortage could still be a problem.

County Finds Success With Beer Gardens

Over past decade, county revived history of beer gardens in Milwaukee. And it paid off.

Wisconsin Avenue Park Will Be Area’s First With Universal Access

First in southeastern Wisconsin where everything full accessible for those with disabilities.

Supervisors Demand A Domes Plan

Parks Committee recommends pursuing historic designation. But then what?

Parks May Convert Roads to Bike, Pedestrian Trails

Plan would convert 1.3 miles of Little Menomonee and Lincoln Creek parkways.

Vincent Lyles Brings Expertise to MyPath Board of Directors

July 3 Fireworks Return!

After a two-year hiatus, fireworks return to Milwaukee's lakefront.

Seasonal Worker Shortage Hurts Parks System

Decades of staff cuts forced parks to rely on a now-disappearing seasonal workforce.

Lifeguard Shortage Limits Pool Openings Again

No lifeguards at beaches in 2022, limited pool openings.

Supervisor Burgelis Encourages Residents to Visit Villa Terrace Olmsted Exhibition

Red Arrow Park Could Be Summer Roller Rink

Parks will develop a plan to operate a roller rink for when winter ice skating shuts down.

Milwaukee Preservation Alliance February 2022 Milwaukee County Supervisor Candidate Survey

Candidates share views on historic preservation, future of Mitchell Park Domes

How to Save Our County Parks

Citizens can get involved and make a difference.

Parks Finishes New Kegel-Alpha Trail Plan

Proposal for controversial trail modifications in Mangan Woods in Greendale finalized.

How Can Milwaukee Save Its Parks?

Policy researchers, public officials say new tax revenue, and public-private partnerships.

County Can’t Afford Park System

Fewer local tax dollars available for parks. Officials call for new revenue sources.

Future of Two Golf Courses in Question

Fate of Doyne and Noyes golf courses unclear, given financially hobbled parks system.

Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Christian Yelich joins with American Family Insurance, other partners to support Milwaukee’s Beckum Stapleton Little League

Saga Of The Domes Continues

Years after task force report and consultant analysis, county officials finally reviewing the options.

What They’re Saying: Wisconsin Businesses Beg for Help as Assembly Considers Veto Override

Milwaukee County Parks Traveling Beer Garden Returns

Rare non-casualty of pandemic has run annually since 2014.

Wilson Park ‘Car Garden’ Approved

27th Street BID would create unique garden with plantings, paths and shells of classic cars and trucks.

County Micro-Managing At Its Worst?

Board proposal to oversee all county parks bike trail changes is a head scratcher.

Supervisors Push To Be Bike Trail Czars

Parks committee approves resolution giving it approval power over bike trails maintenance, alterations.

Wilson Park Garden Project Delayed

Parks still hasn't inked agreement after two months. Supervisors tell department to move quicker.

Milwaukee County Parks Seeking Over 500 For Summer Jobs In The Parks

‘Classic Car Garden’ Planned for Wilson Park

The proposal from the business district almost bogged down by administrative red tape.

Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley Announces ‘Love Your Parks’ Collaboration with Purple Door Ice Cream

Limited edition 'Trail Mix' ice cream flavor now available at Purple Door Ice Cream Locations

New Painted Hearts Encourage Social Distancing in Downtown Parks

County Executive David Crowley names Guy Smith for Parks Director

Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley Announces ‘Love Your Parks’ Collaboration With Stone Creek Coffee

Limited edition 'Love Your Parks' coffee now available in Stone Creek Coffee locations & online

Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley Announces ‘Love Your Parks’ Campaign

Milwaukee County & Partners Announce the “Love Your Parks” Campaign to Build a Path to Support the Equitable, Long-term Sustainability of the Parks System

County Board Approves Funding for Mural Honoring Quanita “Tay” Jackson

Milwaukee County Park Deep-Well Pools to Remain Closed this Summer as a Result of COVID-19

County Creating More Space in Parks

As parks usage spikes, officials closing some parkways to cars to create more space for recreation.

Milwaukee lakefront fireworks cancelled due to COVID-19 pandemic

Decision announced today by partners American Family Insurance, Milwaukee Brewers, T&M Partners and Milwaukee County

Eight Milwaukee County Golf Courses to Open Friday, April 24

Wisconsin Reports 2,122 Positive COVID-19 Cases, 56 Deaths

Despite record increases, officials believe curve is flattening, "safer at home" working.

Resist Spring Fever

Practice social distancing, avoid leaving home when possible.

Milwaukee County Updates Regarding COVID-19

Milwaukee County Parks and the Zoo will close effective this weekend until further notice

Traveling Beer Garden 2020 Dates & Locations Announced

Milwaukee County Parks Announces Initial Funding for Milwaukee Parks Foundation

More than $350,000 in initial gifts will support programming, infrastructure projects and long-term multi-park improvement campaigns that focus on racial equity across Milwaukee County

County Plans to Expand South Shore Beer Garden

County announces plans to spend $50,000 to plan and design beer garden expansion.

Sup. Dimitrijevic Announces Plans to Expand South Shore Terrace Beer Garden

"Thank you to County Executive Abele for including the funding needed to start the process of expanding the successful South Shore beer garden in my district."

Green Bay Packers Donate New Playground for Center Street Park

The Packers gift, which includes installation costs, was made in conjunction with the National Football League’s "Play60" and "Huddle for 100" initiatives, is valued at between $75,000 and $80,000.

Park’s ‘Maptacular’ art project returns for second season

This year’s unique maps, which were revealed at a gallery night at the Mitchell Park Domes on Thursday night.

Kletzsch Park Improvements Key to Unlocking Millions in E.P.A. Funding

The $2 million project in Kletzsch Park is part of an extensive plan to tackle environmental issues in the Milwaukee Estuary Area of Concern.

Domes Task Force Recommends $66 Million Plan

Plan to radically alter the domes and Mitchell Park demands fast decision making.

Lake Park Bridge Funding Secured

State funds will help restore Ravine Road Bridge, with some left over for Brown Deer Park.

County Executive Chris Abele, Milwaukee County Parks and The Ability Center Announce Plans to Make Bradford Beach Accessible

“By ensuring Bradford Beach is accessible to all Milwaukee County residents, we are working towards making our community assets a convenient and viable choice for people with disabilities.”

“Think Big!” Domes Task Force Is Told

Consultant hired by county offers bold new vision for the domes and Mitchell Park.

Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele, Supervisor Jason Haas and Milwaukee County Parks Announce a New Wine and Beer Garden at Humboldt Park

The Vine Humboldt is expected to open Memorial Day weekend and will be operated by the county

Milwaukee’s July 3 Fireworks to Return in 2019

The 2019 July 3 fireworks show will be supported by American Family Insurance, the Milwaukee Brewers Foundation and T&M Partners.

Time running out to save July 3 fireworks

The 45-minute show, launched from two barges on Lake Michigan, costs around $350,000 to put on, and currently, no local businesses have committed to sponsoring the full cost of the event.

Milwaukee County Parks Thanks BBV for partnership at Bradford Beach

Over the past seven years BBV has worked with Milwaukee County to help revitalize Bradford Beach.

A ‘Maptacular’ Idea to Fund Parks

New fund for parks from merchandise sold, including unique maps of parks.

“Ruth M. Simos Great Room” Dedicated in Ceremony at Humboldt Park Pavilion

"Ruth Simos was a tireless advocate for Humboldt Park..."

Should County Go Into Hemp Business?

Facing huge budget problems, supervisors push for county to grow and sell hemp.

‘Bees, Birdies and Beers’

Milwaukee County Parks & Mobcraft Brewery team up to create ‘Honey Driver’ collaboration beer

Abele Thanks County Board Committee and Chairman for Unanimous Support of Guy Smith

Parks, Energy and Environment Committee votes 5-0 in favor of confirming acting head of Milwaukee County Parks Department

Pop-Up beer Garden featuring the ‘Alestream’ Coming to Jacobus Park in Wauwatosa

The Milwaukee County Parks operated beer garden will feature craft beers from Good City Brewing, MKE brewing and Third Space Brewing.

Abele Appoints Guy Smith to Lead Parks

Smith, a 14-year veteran of Milwaukee County Parks, has been serving as interim director; brings leadership, experience and passion to the County

Battle Over The Winter Farmers Market

Weddings at Domes far more lucrative, Parks leader says, but board backs farmers market.

Summer of Music taking Shape in Milwaukee County Parks

Park visitors this year will also be able to enjoy live music at beer gardens.

Supervisor Dimitrijevic Celebrates Season Opening of South Shore Terrace

The South Shore Terrace is located in a renovated 1930's era boathouse in South Shore Park.

South Shore Terrace Seeking to Kickstart Spring with Grand Opening on April 18

Those who are brave enough to attend will be among the first to experience new menu items available at the beer garden

New Partnership Will Bring More Events to the Greenhouse Annex at Mitchell Park Domes

The Zillis liquor license is also expected to be extended to the Annex, which will expand its appeal as a wedding venue.

Free Skate Rentals at Slice of Ice to Celebrate Season Opening, Dec. 15, from 4-6 p.m.

Opening weekend, rink hours are Friday until 11 p.m.; Saturday, from 11 a.m.–11 p.m.; and Sunday, from 11 a.m.–9 p.m.

Glow Skate Returns to Wilson Ice Arena, Nov. 24, Dec. 30

Glow-in-the-dark necklaces, holiday lights, music, prize drawings, and a gourmet hot-chocolate bar will be featured.

Public Information Meeting: Proposed Designation of Multi-Use Trail in Milwaukee River Parkway, in Glendale

The trail will provide new recreational opportunities in the northeast region of Milwaukee County.

Holiday Hoopla at Slice of Ice, Dec. 21

Holiday Hoopla brings together photo opportunities, live music, giveaways—and ice skating.

Urban Ecology Has Brainstorming Session

Neighbors meet with architects to discuss renovating Washington Park Urban Ecology Center.

Green Bay Packers Partner with Milwaukee County Parks

Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele is happy to announce a new partnership between the Milwaukee County Parks, United Way, the Green Bay Packers, and the NFL.