Milwaukee County Seeks Public Input to Revamp Expansive Trail Network

In November 2025, the Milwaukee County Parks system has launched a series of public input meetings to update its Trails Network Plan, which will shape the long-term vision for the county's extensive trail system. The current plan, created in 2007, is in need of an overhaul to develop a new roadmap for improving and expanding the network that sees roughly 1.5 million trips each year.

The updated plan aims to infuse considerations of equity across the county's parks, building upon the 2023 Northwest Side Connections Plan that sought to enhance trails in historically underserved neighborhoods. Once finalized, the new Trails Network Plan will serve as an appendix to Milwaukee's 2050 Park and Open Space Plan.

Residents are encouraged to share their ideas on where new trails should be located, whether they should be paved or natural surfaces, and if the county should invest in bicycle-related recreation facilities. The goal is to create a trail system that serves all corners of Milwaukee County for years to come.

"Trails are more than just paths through our parks. They are vital connections that bring our communities together, promote healthy lifestyles, and provide accessible recreation for everyone," said Guy Smith, executive director of Milwaukee County Parks.