Wausau city committee approves vacating Pine Ridge Boulevard for neighborhood improvements

The Wausau Infrastructure & Facilities Committee convened on July 10, 2025, to discuss several key items impacting local infrastructure, including the potential vacating of Pine Ridge Boulevard and the transfer of land ownership to Marathon County.

The meeting began with a public hearing regarding the proposal to vacate Pine Ridge Boulevard from North 20 Eighth Avenue to West Hill Drive. After confirming no public comments were received, the committee members expressed their support for the closure. Aldo Neal noted that the closure would not significantly disrupt traffic in the area, while Alder Watson confirmed he had not heard any objections from constituents. The motion to vacate the roadway was unanimously approved, indicating a consensus on the matter.

Following this, the committee addressed a request from the Parks Department to transfer ownership of a small parcel of land in Marathon Park back to Marathon County. Jamie Polley from the Parks Department explained that this transfer was a housekeeping measure to correct historical ownership discrepancies dating back to the 1800s. The committee approved the quick claim deed, allowing the county to take ownership of the land, which is already part of the park's fenced area.

The final significant discussion centered on a preliminary resolution to vacate right-of-way along the former 20 Eighth Avenue corridor. This proposal aims to clear excess right-of-way that is no longer needed due to a decision to reconstruct 20 Eighth Avenue along its existing alignment rather than curving it westward. The committee clarified that vacating this right-of-way would allow the county to sell the parcels for redevelopment, potentially increasing taxable property in the city.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the committee's proactive approach to managing local infrastructure and land use, with decisions that aim to streamline operations and facilitate future development. The next steps will involve public hearings for the proposed changes, ensuring community input remains a vital part of the decision-making process.