MENASHA, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Construction is underway for a plan to connect existing trails around Little Lake Butte de Morts.
Those trails will also link the cities of Neenah and Menasha.
“You’re talking about two 700 foot bridges that span both segments of the Fox River,” said Brian Tungate, Menasha Parks and Recreation director. “And we are connecting to the original Trestle Trail that was built about 11 years ago over here.”
The $3.5 million dollar project is expected to be completed next year.
“We look forward to being out on the trail and using it next summer so it’s the final stretch of this project and it’s exciting to be here,” said Amy Barker.
Barker is the executive director of Future Neenah, which has helped raise money to pay for a portion of the project.
“Initially when the bids came back, they were high. We kept fundraising and fundraised harder. We made a larger commitment to both communities so instead of raising a million dollars, we raised $1,075,000,” she said.
Both the Neenah and Menasha mayors support the project and attended Friday’s groundbreaking ceremony.
“This is just another project that shows when we’re working together as a community, that we get great things done,” said Don Merkes, Menasha mayor.
“This 3.2 mile trail is just perfect,” said Dean Kaufert, Neenah mayor.
A state grant, Future Neenah donations, and the cities of Neenah and Menasha will help pay for this project, which has been in the works since 2015.
Both cities had to buy two plots of land to help the project along. Those in charge say some of the benefits include having additional water access and the trail being able to be used for many years to come.
“We’re going to have probably, a 5K loop probably 80 percent off road so it’s going to be a very safe trail and very accessible,” Tungate said.
