Board approves extra TID 3 funds to finish Ashwaubomay Trail; steps and handrail to be added

The Village Board of Ashwaubenon voted June 24 to cover a $50,000–$70,000 construction overrun on the Ashwaubomay River Trail extension using remaining funds in TID 3 and to proceed with the original project scope, including concrete steps and a prefabricated handrail at the boat-launch parking lot connection to Shelter No. 4.

Public Works staff reported that during excavation crews found unexpectedly deep topsoil and a formerly filled underground spring at two locations on the trail alignment. That required additional excavation and structural base material; Public Works staff estimated "an extra $50,000 to $70,000 worth of time and materials" to reach a stable base for paving.

The staff presented alternatives to make up the shortfall: eliminate the proposed concrete steps and handrail (estimated at about $90,000), use TID 3 funds to cover the overrun, or install alternate access paths at lower cost (options estimated at roughly $15,500 and $35,000 depending on routing and trail work). Board members discussed the trade-offs, noting the boat-launch lot is heavily used on weekends and during events and that future work would likely cost more.

Trustees moved to keep the original project elements and to fund the additional excavation and the connecting steps from TID 3; the motion passed by voice vote. A board member who supported using TID 3 noted the district is closing soon and funds will not be available indefinitely. Project staff said the trail is near paving and the additional work has already been completed in the affected areas.

Public Works staff will proceed to finalize paving preparations and the steps and handrail work under the revised budget allocation from TID 3.