Milwaukee County Parks
Press Release

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

 

By - Aug 27th, 2024 10:30 am

Milwaukee, WI – August 27, 2024 – Milwaukee County Parks is proud to share its new trails-focused initiative, reinforcing its mission to enhance recreational access, prioritize sustainability, and support the health and wellbeing of all community members. This initiative will see the addition of 10 miles of new trails by 2026, aimed at creating a more connected, safe, and equitable trail network throughout the county.

Milwaukee County Parks’ new trails initiative represents a significant step toward a more equitable, healthy, and sustainable community. This effort aligns with Milwaukee County’s broader health and racial equity goals by providing safe alternatives to roads with reckless driving and prioritizing trail development in historically underserved communities. By expanding and enhancing the trail network, Milwaukee County Parks underscores its commitment to serving all residents, minimizing environmental impact, and preserving natural resources, while offering a cost-effective solution compared to road maintenance.

“We know that vibrant, clean outdoor trails are good for our public health, our local economy, our environment, and the safety of our neighborhoods. That’s why Milwaukee County is working to transform many of our aging roadways into outdoor trails and greenspaces, as this saves the County taxpayer dollars and delivers significant benefits to our community,” said Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. “My administration’s initiative to create 10 news miles of outdoor trails by 2026 is about supporting our broader health, economic, and racial equity goals. I am looking forward to the work ahead, and I’m grateful to the Parks Department for leading the way in fostering safer, healthier, and greener neighborhoods across Milwaukee County.”

“At Milwaukee County Parks, we believe that everyone deserves access to safe, welcoming spaces where they can connect with nature, stay active, and enjoy the beauty of our parks. This new trails initiative is a major step forward in our commitment to equity, health, and environmental stewardship. By expanding our trail network, we’re not only enhancing the quality of life for all residents but also investing in a sustainable future for our community. We’re excited to work hand-in-hand with the public to shape these trails and ensure they meet the needs of every trail user. Together, we can create a healthier, more connected Milwaukee County.” – Guy Smith, Milwaukee County Parks Director

Milwaukee County Parks has several upcoming trail projects, including conversions of parkways into trails and extensions of existing trail networks. Notable projects include:

Lincoln Creek Parkway Trail Conversion
Little Menomonee River Parkway Trail Conversion
Underwood Creek Parkway Redesign.
Kinnickinnic River Parkway
Oak Leaf Trail Extension – Kohl Park
Oak Leaf Trail Extension – Bender Park

These projects will enhance connectivity and provide safer access for pedestrians and cyclists.

The time is now! Milwaukee County Parks is encouraging active feedback and participation from the local community in the planning and development process to ensure that any proposed expansions meet the needs and desires of trail users. Visit the Milwaukee County Parks Trail Project Campaign Page and make your voice heard. Learn more and suggest where you would like to experience a trail system grow over the next two years here: Milwaukee County Parks Trail Project Campaign Page.

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.

Additional Details

These projects will enhance connectivity and provide safer access for pedestrians and cyclists.

The time is now! Milwaukee County Parks is encouraging active feedback and participation from the local community in the planning and development process to ensure that any proposed expansions meet the needs and desires of trail users. Visit the Milwaukee County Parks Trail Project Campaign Page and make your voice heard. Learn more and suggest where you would like to experience a trail system grow over the next two years here: Milwaukee County Parks Trail Project Campaign Page.

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.
Additional Details

Image from Milwaukee County Parks.

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.

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