Merrimac parks committee outlines shoreline repairs, a second pavilion and ballpark reuses

Chairperson Nate Taylor said the Village of Merrimac Parks & Recreation Committee is prioritizing shoreline and accessibility work at Sunrise Shore Park and is preparing cost estimates for repairs and screening plantings.

Taylor told the committee that ice heaving has pushed shoreline materials onto land and that the village will consult the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources about whether riprap will be permitted. He recommended that adjoining property owner Bob Garrison obtain quotes for screening plantings to present to the Village Board for final approval. The committee identified spring priorities including brush cleanup, filling low spots, invasive-vine and weed control, and grass seeding.

The committee also reviewed preliminary plans to add a second pavilion at Memorial Park, west of the horseshoe pits. The initial concept calls for a 30-foot by 30-foot concrete slab with a wood-framed, metal-roof pavilion, with electrical and water trenched in; Chairperson Taylor said he has requested quotes and that the committee is exploring fundraising and donations to offset costs.

Committee members discussed alternatives for underused Ball Park space outside Little League season, including a splash pad, pickleball courts, additional parking, relocating horseshoe pits, wiffle ball, or a walking path. Jennifer Thompson reviewed a recent First Impressions report and highlighted several low-cost short-term landscaping projects to improve village gateways and park appearance.

The committee agreed to set workdays for spring cleanup and to post volunteer opportunities; it plans to bring budget and quote information to the Village Board for decisions on capital projects.