City unveils new skate park and ongoing park renovations at Oak Island

The Wausau Parks and Recreation Committee convened on June 2, 2025, to discuss significant developments in local park facilities, highlighting ongoing projects and improvements aimed at enhancing community recreation.

A major focus of the meeting was the progress on the new skate park at Oak Island Park. Committee members reported that precast ramps have been delivered, with installation already underway. The project is divided into two phases, with Phase 1 expected to be completed by July 1, 2025, allowing for a soft opening. This phase includes new ramps and a unique peninsula feature that extends towards the lake, enhancing the park's layout. Phase 2 will involve refurbishing existing ramps and adding additional flat work to the western side of the park.

In addition to the skate park, updates were provided on various other recreational facilities. Athletic Park has undergone renovations, including the installation of new ADA-compliant restrooms and showers in the clubhouse, preparing it for the upcoming baseball season. The Woodchucks baseball team has already begun its season, with the Ignite team set to start shortly.

The committee also discussed the construction of new pickleball courts at Alexander Airport, which are currently being paved and fenced. The courts are expected to open after a 30-day curing period post-painting.

Other maintenance updates included repairs to restrooms at Brockmire Park and ongoing work to address leaks in the splash pad. The committee noted that all summer facilities, including shelters and restrooms, are operational and ready for public use.

A significant discussion point was the condition of trees around City Hall. An assessment revealed that eight trees are in poor condition and will be removed and replaced, while six others will be pruned to extend their lifespan. The decline of Norway maples, a common species in the area, was highlighted, with plans to replace them with salt-tolerant species to mitigate future issues.

The meeting concluded with a brief update on the city’s pools, indicating that preparations are in place for the summer season. Overall, the discussions underscored the committee's commitment to improving recreational facilities and ensuring they meet the needs of the community. As these projects progress, residents can look forward to enhanced recreational opportunities in Wausau.