Milwaukee County Parks Announces Public Meetings for Trails Network Plan Update

MILWAUKEE, WI — Milwaukee County Parks is inviting community members to help shape the future of trails across the County through four upcoming public input meetings for the Trails Network Plan Update. The plan will guide the long-term vision for a safe, connected, and accessible trail system that supports recreation, transportation, and community connection throughout Milwaukee County and the region.

The Trails Network Plan Update builds upon the original 2007 Trails Network Plan and follows the successful Trail Projects Campaign conducted over the past two years. The updated plan will serve as a roadmap for improving and expanding the County’s extensive trail system, which already includes more than 200 miles of trails and 1.5 million annual trips.

“Trails are more than just paths through our parks. They are vital connections that bring our communities together, promote healthy lifestyles, and provide accessible recreation for everyone,” said Guy Smith, Executive Director of Milwaukee County Parks. “We encourage residents to share their ideas and help shape a trail system that serves all corners of Milwaukee County for years to come.”

During the pandemic, trail use across Milwaukee County surged, highlighting the essential role trails play in supporting physical and mental health. Building on the Northwest Side Connections Plan adopted in 2023 to improve access in historically underserved neighborhoods, the Trails Network Plan Update aims to strengthen connectivity and prioritize equity across the entire county.

Public Input Meeting Schedule

Each meeting will include an open house from 5:00–7:00 PM with a presentation at 5:30 PM. Community members are encouraged to attend the session most convenient for them:

• Wednesday, November 12, 2025 | Kosciuszko Community Center
  2201 S 7th St, Milwaukee, WI 53215
• Thursday, November 13, 2025 | Lincoln Blatz Upper Pavilion
  1301 W Hampton Ave, Glendale, WI 53209
• Wednesday, November 19, 2025 | Milwaukee County Sports Complex
  6000 W Ryan Rd, Franklin, WI 53132
• Thursday, November 20, 2025 | Dretzka Chalet
  12020 W Bradley Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53224

About the Trails Network Plan

The updated Trails Network Plan will function as an appendix to the 2050 Park and Open Space Plan for Milwaukee County. It will guide future investment by identifying and prioritizing locations for new trails, both paved and natural surface, as well as opportunities for bicycle-related recreation facilities.

About Milwaukee County Parks

Milwaukee County Parks is dedicated to enriching the lives of the community by providing safe, enjoyable, and affordable recreational opportunities while preserving the natural and cultural resources of the parks. Spanning over 15,000 acres, the Milwaukee County Park System includes more than 150 parks and parkways, over 100 miles of trails, numerous community centers, golf courses, botanical gardens, beaches, and hundreds of playgrounds, athletic fields, and picnic areas. Committed to sustainability, health, and equity, Milwaukee County Parks continues to strive towards a vision where everyone, regardless of background, can enjoy the benefits of green spaces and recreational facilities.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.