$1.3 million appropriation will fund design and permitting for long-term shoreline resiliency efforts
MILWAUKEE, WI. – Today, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley signed legislation approving Milwaukee County Parks to advance $1,126,580 in funding for the design and permitting phase of the Sheridan Park Bluff Stabilization Project.
The funding that County Executive Crowley and the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors approved will be added to the $200,000 appropriation approved by the Board in May of 2026 (File Milwaukee County - File #: 26-437A) to support the next critical phase of the project, allowing Milwaukee County Parks to complete design, prepare construction documents, and obtain the necessary environmental permits needed before construction.
Located along Lake Michigan in the City of Cudahy, Sheridan Park's bluffs have experienced decades of erosion and bluff recession. Recent assessments identified multiple bluff sections within the park as among Milwaukee County's highest-priority coastal resiliency projects due to ongoing shoreline instability and risks to public utility infrastructure, park amenities like the Oak Leaf Trail, public roadways, and nearby
neighborhoods.
The project builds upon years of planning, technical analysis, and grant supported coastal assessments completed by Milwaukee County Parks and its partners to better understand erosion along the County’s Lake Michigan shoreline and identify long term, resilient solutions. The design process will refine a preferred engineering alternative intended to improve shoreline resiliency, enhance public safety, and help preserve this important lakefront park for generations to come.
The final stabilization approach will be determined during the engineering design process and may include shoreline protection measures, erosion control improvements, native vegetation restoration, and other features designed to improve long-term bluff stability.
“Preserving Sheridan Park in a fiscally responsible way is a priority for Milwaukee County,” said Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. “This beloved park is important to our residents who call this community home. The funding will allow us to explore solutions for this environmental challenge, improve eligibility for state and federal support, and help restore the park for generations to come.”
"This vote is an important step toward protecting Sheridan Park and securing its future, said Milwaukee County District 8 Supervisor Steven Shea. By approving funding for this study, Milwaukee County is positioning itself to pursue federal funding for long-term bluff stabilization and shoreline resiliency. I want to thank my fellow County Board members and the Executive for recognizing the importance of this investment and for their thoughtful consideration. Together, we're taking meaningful action to preserve this treasured park and protect the surrounding community for generations to come."
Milwaukee County Parks has already taken precautionary measures, including fencing off unstable areas, and will continue to monitor bluff conditions to maintain public safety. These actions may include trail closures where necessary, while design work moves forward.
"Sheridan Park is one of Milwaukee County's most treasured lakefront parks, and protecting it requires thoughtful, long-term investment," said Milwaukee County Parks Executive Director Guy Smith. "Advancing the design and permitting phase is an important step toward improving the resilience of our Lake Michigan shoreline, protecting critical public infrastructure, and ensuring future generations can safely enjoy this remarkable public space. This project reflects our strategic commitment to sustainably steward our parks while continuing to enhance the health, wellness, and quality of life they provide for our community."
Completion of the design and permitting phase will position Milwaukee County to pursue future funding opportunities for construction and implementation of the bluff stabilization project.
About Milwaukee County Parks
Milwaukee County Parks is dedicated to enriching the lives of the community by providing safe, enjoyable, and affordable recreational opportunities while preserving the natural and cultural resources of the parks. Spanning over 15,000 acres, the Milwaukee County Park System includes more than 150 parks and parkways, over 100 miles of trails, numerous community centers, golf courses, botanical gardens, beaches, and hundreds of playgrounds, athletic fields, and picnic areas. Committed to sustainability, health, and equity, Milwaukee County Parks continues to strive towards a vision where everyone, regardless of background, can enjoy the benefits of green spaces and recreational facilities.
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