Labor Council reshapes Labor Day Parade route for enhanced safety measures

The Wausau Public Health & Safety Committee meeting on March 17, 2025, spotlighted significant changes to the Labor Day parade route, reflecting heightened safety concerns. The committee announced that the traditional Third Avenue route will no longer be used due to safety risks, a decision made after consultations with the Labor Council.

Committee members, including chair Randy Radke, discussed the need to adapt the parade's ending point to the Labor Temple while ensuring safety measures are in place. The committee acknowledged the challenges posed by insufficient staffing and resources to secure the previous route effectively. "Nobody likes the fact that... we now have to change how we do things," one member stated, emphasizing the necessity of evolving public safety protocols in light of recent national events.

The discussion also touched on the broader implications for event safety in Wausau. Members expressed concerns about the effectiveness of current barriers, suggesting that more robust measures, such as vehicles, may be needed to protect participants and vendors during events. The committee highlighted the importance of collaboration between the police department and the Department of Public Works (DPW) to ensure safety at public gatherings.

As Wausau prepares for upcoming events, the committee's decisions underscore a proactive approach to public safety, aiming to balance community traditions with the need for enhanced security measures. The anticipated changes will likely reshape how future events are organized and executed in the city.