West Bend plans $9K upgrade for Regner Park concession stands and downtown amenities

In the heart of West Bend, city officials gathered to discuss exciting developments for local parks and recreational facilities, setting the stage for a vibrant summer season. The meeting, held on March 27, 2025, highlighted significant improvements planned for Regner Park, a beloved community hub that thrives year-round.

One of the key topics was the renovation of the concession stands at Regner Park, which have seen heavy use during summer events and the popular Enchantment Park festivities. City officials revealed plans to replace the existing chipped flooring with durable polyurea flooring, ensuring a fresh and safe environment for visitors. The project, which also includes power washing and painting the concrete block walls, is set to be completed by CertiPro in May at a cost of $9,137, funded through the park's general operating accounts. The park and forestry crew has already refurbished the custom serving counters, adding to the excitement of the upcoming special event season.

As the discussion shifted to downtown development, officials acknowledged that while the Riverwalk area appears complete, there is still much work to be done. Plans are underway to hire an architect to design a new lighting scheme for pedestrian bridges and explore the addition of festoon lighting in key areas, including Vest Pocket Park and Main Street. The need for a new gazebo at Old Settlers Park was also emphasized, as community members expressed a desire for a larger structure with enhanced electrical capacity to accommodate modern technology.

Public restrooms in downtown West Bend emerged as a pressing need, with officials exploring potential partnerships with property owners to facilitate their construction. The absence of restrooms has been felt during bustling events like the farmers market and summer concerts, making this initiative a priority for enhancing the downtown experience.

The meeting also touched on the development of the Ice Age Trail, with plans to improve access and facilities at Glacier Blue Hills and Ridge Run Park. City officials are collaborating with Kunkle Engineering to assess costs for necessary upgrades, including parking lots and boardwalk repairs. The goal is to create a seamless experience for trail users while addressing existing infrastructure challenges.

As the meeting concluded, the vision for West Bend's parks and recreational spaces became clear: a commitment to enhancing community engagement through improved facilities and thoughtful development. With these initiatives on the horizon, residents can look forward to a summer filled with vibrant activities and renewed spaces that celebrate the beauty of their city.