Committee sets public hearing to consider vacating right-of-way along former 20 Eighth Avenue corridor

The Infrastructure and Facilities Committee voted to set a public hearing on a preliminary resolution to vacate excess right-of-way along the former 20 Eighth Avenue corridor. The move starts the legal process to consider reverting county-owned right-of-way back to the county where the county previously acquired parcels for a different alignment that the county will not pursue.

City staff explained Marathon County had purchased a series of parcels that were dedicated as right-of-way for a proposed realignment of 20 Eighth Avenue. Committee members were told the county has decided to reconstruct 20 Eighth Avenue on its current alignment and no longer needs the excess right-of-way north of Maple Creek Drive and along Thirtieth Avenue. If the city vacates the identified right-of-way, staff said ownership would revert to Marathon County (the prior owner) and the county anticipates disposing of the parcels for redevelopment.

Committee members asked for clarification on whether the land would remain within Wausau city limits; staff confirmed the land would stay in the city and not be de‑annexed. Alder Aldo Veil moved to set a public hearing; Alder Larson seconded and the committee approved the motion. Committee members asked staff to provide detailed maps at the public hearing showing the exact areas proposed for vacation and the portions of Thirtieth Avenue, 20 Ninth Avenue and Maple Creek Drive the city would retain.

What happens next: City staff will prepare and publish a detailed map and public‑hearing notice. The public hearing will be held before the Infrastructure and Facilities Committee, after which council will receive the record for further action.