Council affirms support for Milwaukee County Vision Zero and OKs Oak Leaf Trail agreement through Bender Park

The Oak Creek Common Council on Aug. 19 adopted two related resolutions: one affirming support for Milwaukee County’s Vision Zero initiative and participation in developing a municipal safety action plan, and another approving an agreement with Milwaukee County for the Oak Leaf Trail extension through Bender Park.

Vision Zero participation: Assistant City Administrator and City Engineer Matthew Sullivan said the city is midstream in a municipal safety action plan developed in partnership with Milwaukee County and consultants provided at no cost under the county program. The resolution reaffirms Oak Creek’s participation and gives the city access to county technical assistance and potential funding sources to advance traffic-safety projects, including corridor improvements and pedestrian/bicycle safety measures.

Oak Leaf Trail extension agreement: Council approved an agreement authorizing Milwaukee County to construct the Oak Leaf Trail extension through Bender Park and to use city right-of-way where the trail crosses city-owned pavement and connectors. Sullivan said construction is scheduled for late in the year but noted the county’s funding schedule could change; the agreement itself does not commit city funds but grants the county permission to construct in the city right-of-way and defines coordination points.

Why it matters: Council members flagged specific local crossings and safety priorities — including safer crossings near schools and busy corridors — and said county partnership expands the city’s technical and funding options for traffic-safety and active-transportation projects.

Sources: Staff presentation by Matthew Sullivan and council votes on Aug. 19.