OAK CREEK, WI — Milwaukee County Parks will celebrate the completion of a new 1.3-mile extension of the Oak Leaf Trail at Bender Park with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, September 17 at 10:00 a.m.
The new 10-foot-wide paved trail extends the South Shore Line of the Oak Leaf Trail from Bender Park Road south to Oakwood Road, taking trail users through Bender Park’s prairies and woodlands and offering views of Lake Michigan. Most importantly, the extension closes a key gap in the regional trail network, creating a continuous 20-mile bicycle facility connecting communities in Milwaukee and Racine counties.
“The Oak Leaf Trail is one of Milwaukee County’s greatest assets, connecting people to our parks, our communities, and the outdoors,” said Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. “This expansion at Bender Park closes a key gap in our trail network and creates a new connection with our neighbors in Racine County. Working to become the healthiest county in Wisconsin means breaking down barriers so every resident, no matter their neighborhood, can access the health benefits of nature and recreation. Stronger trails mean a stronger, healthier, more connected region for all of us.”
“I’m proud to have supported this project and helped get it across the finish line, and I’m grateful to Milwaukee County Parks for getting it done,” said Milwaukee County Supervisor Steve F. Taylor. “A more connected trail network is a real benefit to residents in my district and throughout the County. This new section of the Oak Leaf Trail strengthens those connections, brings communities together, and creates an asset residents can use for years to come.”
The 1.3-mile Bender Park extension also represents another significant step toward Milwaukee County Parks’ goal of adding 10 miles of new trails between 2024 and the end of 2026. The initiative is focused on expanding safe, accessible connections for walking, biking and other forms of active transportation while creating stronger connections between neighborhoods, parks and the larger regional trail network.
“This milestone represents more than the completion of a new trail. It’s an investment in the health, well-being and connectivity of our communities,” said Milwaukee County Parks Executive Director Guy Smith. “By connecting Milwaukee and Racine counties and expanding access to our natural areas, we’re creating more opportunities for people to be active, connect with nature and experience the physical and mental health benefits our parks provide. We’re grateful to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and all
of our project partners for helping us make this important connection a reality.”
Funding for the project was awarded through a $1.3 million federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program grant in conjunction with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, with Milwaukee County providing matching funds. Milwaukee County Parks thanks WisDOT for its partnership and investment in expanding safe, sustainable transportation and recreational opportunities in the region.
Milwaukee County Parks also thanks C.W. Purpero, Inc., the project’s contractor, for its work constructing the new trail and associated improvements.
With the new connection open, Milwaukee County Parks reminds everyone using the Oak Leaf Trail to help keep the trail safe and welcoming. Trail users should stay aware of their surroundings, travel at safe speeds, keep to the right except when passing and give an audible warning before passing others. All users are encouraged to be courteous and share the trail.
Work at Bender Park will continue following the trail opening. Improvements to Bender Park Road and related infrastructure are the next phase of work, with work starting this fall. Visitors should continue to follow posted signage and use caution around active construction areas.
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
WHAT:Bender Park Oak Leaf Trail Extension Ribbon Cutting
WHEN: Thursday, September 17, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.
WHERE: Bender Park, 4503 E. Ryan Road, Oak Creek, WI 53154
PARKING: A small gravel parking lot is available near the ceremony site,
with additional street parking available along S. Lake Vista Parkway.
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.
Additional Details
