Council approves multiuse trail extension through Business Campus; eminent domain described as process, not immediate action

The Wausau Common Council on May 27 approved an infrastructure resolution establishing a multiuse trail to extend from 70 Second Avenue west to 80 Fourth Avenue through the business campus (project ID 6999-18-11). The council approved the item 10-0 after it had been removed from the consent agenda for discussion.

City staff described the proposal as an extension of an existing two-year-old trail along 70 Second Avenue that would run behind businesses along International Drive and connect into 80 Fourth Avenue to provide a western connection. Alder Rasmussen and others said the expansion would reduce pedestrian conflicts with heavy truck traffic in the business campus and help worker wellness.

Alder Gisleman asked about a packet phrase stating properties “shall be acquired by eminent domain if necessary.” Staff and legal counsel explained that eminent domain is the name for a statutory process the city follows to identify required rights and to make offers; it is a last resort. Staff said the relocation order starts the process of mapping the trail corridor and identifying whether temporary or permanent easements, or full purchase, will be needed. Any purchase of property would return to the council for approval; if an owner refuses, the city would bring the matter back to the council and finance committee for further action.

Councilors also said alternate routes had been considered and that other routes could avoid takings if owners objected; finance and acquisition processes could halt or alter the project if wide opposition arose. Staff noted part of the project is DOT-funded and must follow associated procedures.

The motion to approve the plat and relocation order passed unanimously, 10-0.