Bike Ped Committee Recommends South 52 Design for Enhanced Safety and Infrastructure

The Wausau Infrastructure & Facilities Committee made significant strides towards enhancing safety and accessibility for cyclists and pedestrians during their recent meeting on August 14, 2025. The committee unanimously approved recommendations from the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) aimed at redesigning the South 52 corridor, which is crucial for local transportation.

Key recommendations include implementing a 25-mile-per-hour speed limit from Sixth Street to Eighteenth Street, constructing an 8 to 10-foot-wide multiuse trail on one or both sides of the roadway, and adding pedestrian refuge islands at critical intersections. These changes are designed to improve safety for all users, particularly children traveling to nearby schools.

Committee members emphasized the importance of public input in shaping these proposals. A follow-up public meeting is planned to gather further community feedback, ensuring that the final design reflects the needs and concerns of residents. The discussions highlighted the necessity of addressing speeding issues along the corridor, with suggestions to align the design speed with the posted limit to enhance safety.

Joshua Clements, a local resident and advocate for improved bike facilities, shared personal experiences that underscored the urgency of these changes. He urged the committee to prioritize protective measures for cyclists, noting that painted bike lanes alone do not provide adequate safety. Clements stressed that the current design must accommodate the high volume of traffic and ensure a safe environment for all users.

The committee also approved the minutes from the previous meeting, marking a productive session focused on actionable outcomes. As Wausau moves forward with these infrastructure improvements, the community can expect a safer and more accessible environment for cyclists and pedestrians, fostering a culture of active transportation.