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

Milwaukee, WI October 16, 2024 – Milwaukee County Parks is thrilled to announce the groundbreaking ceremony for the Little Menomonee River Parkway Road to Trail Conversion Project, which took place on Wednesday, October 16, 2024. The community joined Milwaukee County Representatives to celebrate this important initiative, marking another step forward in our mission to increase equitable access to recreational spaces and preserve natural resources.

“The Little Menomonee River Parkway project represents Milwaukee County’s commitment to expanding access to safe, equitable recreational spaces for residents and families. This effort is another step forward in our goal to add more trails and transform more walking pathways in Milwaukee County. When we construct new trails, we are supporting healthy lifestyles, neighborhood development, and public safety. I want to extend my gratitude to the Milwaukee County Parks team and all of our community partners for their dedication to this important initiative.” – David Crowley, Milwaukee County Executive.

“This groundbreaking marks an exciting step toward creating safer, healthier, and more accessible spaces for everyone in our community. By transforming roadways into vibrant trails, we are not only enhancing recreational opportunities but also addressing environmental sustainability and fiscal responsibility. Projects like the Little Menomonee River Parkway trail reflect our commitment to racial equity and to providing high-quality green spaces for all residents of Milwaukee County.” – Guy Smith, Executive Director, Milwaukee County Parks. 

Project Overview:
The Little Menomonee River Parkway Road to Trail Conversion Project is part of Milwaukee County Parks’ ongoing effort to transform underutilized roadways into dedicated walking and biking trails, creating safer, healthier alternatives for transportation and recreation. This ARPA funded project, along with a similar effort on Lincoln Creek Parkway undergoing construction at the same time, will convert almost a 1-mile section of parkway, from Leon Terrace Ave. to W. Appleton Ave., into a hard-surface pedestrian and biking trail, improving safety for users and reducing reckless driving.

“Residents in this northwest corner of Milwaukee have long hoped for improvements that would better preserve our natural areas and action addressing reckless driving, dumping, and pathways dangerous to bicyclists.  As we break ground we celebrate a plan that will help toward meeting each of these needs along the Little Menomonee River Parkway.  I look forward to the finished outcomes that will help enhance neighborhood value and the enjoyment of our parks spaces here for decades to come.” – Deanna Alexander, Milwaukee County Board Supervisor of District 18. 

This project aligns with the Milwaukee County Parks’ mission of increasing equitable access to recreation for all members of the community, regardless of background or socioeconomic status, while minimizing the impact on natural resources.

Key Project Benefits:

• Enhanced Safety and Access: Elimination of motor vehicle through-access will reduce reckless driving, improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
• Cost Savings: The project is expected to save approximately $12,000 annually in maintenance, with a 50% reduction in required tasks.
• Trail Connectivity: The new trail will help Milwaukee County Parks reach its goal of adding 10 miles of new trails by 2026, encouraging healthier, active lifestyles.
• Fiscal Responsibility: The construction and maintenance of trails are more cost-effective than roads, contributing to long-term savings for Milwaukee County.

Trails Campaign Mission and Vision:
This project also advances the Milwaukee County Parks’ Trails Campaign, which seeks to create equitable recreational spaces, promote health, and address racial disparities. Trails offer a safe alternative to streets, especially in historically disinvested communities, while also conserving natural resources and reducing environmental impacts. By fostering connections to a wider network of trails and bike lanes, the Milwaukee County Parks trails initiative serves the dual purpose of recreation and conservation.

Community Impact:
Through public support and community engagement, the trail initiative contributes to a healthier environment, enhanced property values, and safer neighborhoods. Studies have shown that well-designed trails reduce crime through community ownership and natural surveillance. Additionally, trails serve as wildlife corridors, promote biodiversity, and provide opportunities for physical and mental well-being.

Additional Information

• To learn more about this project, visit our project page 👉 here 
• For early photos, media requests, and interviews, please fill out our media request form 👉 here

About Milwaukee County Parks:
Milwaukee County Parks is committed to providing year-round recreational opportunities while preserving the natural beauty of our green spaces. With over 15,000 acres of parkland and more than 150 parks, parkways, and trails, we strive to create vibrant spaces that connect the community to nature and each other. To learn more, visit www.countyparks.com.

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.