New bridge at Ashwaubomay Park, July 17, 2024. PC: Fox 11 Online
ASHWAUBENON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Paddlers are getting ready for a weekend jaunt on an area waterway. The venture is two-fold.
It’s not only a way for the public to do some kayaking, but it’s also a way to show off a brand new bridge.
At the boat landing leading to a section of Ashwaubenon Creek, Dave Horst says Saturday’s launch is part of the Northeast Wisconsin Paddlers’ group public paddle event.
“We do get around to doing the Lower Fox every few years. Normally, it’s when the tall ships are here, but they haven’t been here for a while. So we decided we would do the trip and focus on Ashwaubomay Park, and the work that has been done here recently,” said Horst.
That work includes a $2.2 million dollar hiking and biking bridge dedicated there last month.
“That’s largely why we picked this as our launch. We get to see some of the new development that’s happened along here,” said Horst.
Ashwaubenon Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Director Rex Mehlberg says the new bridge compliments the current trailhead and future pathways at Ashwaubomay Park.
“It’s going to go along the Fox River, and it’s going to go around the full exterior of the park. But the emphasis is going to be on the Fox River. We’re going to have some great views continuing that ability to enjoy nature,” said Mehlberg.
“You see the world from a different angle. You’re down at the water level. And when we go under the bridge, that’ll be interesting,” said Horst.
Once the paddlers clear the bridge, they plan to head downstream. Horst says it’s an urban paddle, and he expects downtown Green Bay to offer different types of scenery.
“This is going to be a one-way paddle. We’re going to drop our vehicles at the Green Bay Metro Landing. And so when people get there, they’re done. And they can load up, and go on their way,” he said.
The kayak trip begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday. The cost is $15 for adults. Paddlers are required to wear life jackets while on the water.
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