MILWAUKEE– Milwaukee County Parks has completed the reconstruction of Underwood Creek Parkway, transforming a deteriorated and long-closed parkway into a renewed connection to several Milwaukee County Parks destinations while creating a new permanent section of the Oak Leaf Trail.
Underwood Creek Parkway had been in poor condition and remained closed for several years during construction associated with Interstate 41. Following the completion of the WisDOT project, County funding allowed Milwaukee County Parks to fully reconstruct the parkway and make additional improvements to the surrounding parkland.
“This project is an example of how we can take an infrastructure challenge and create an opportunity to make meaningful improvements for our residents,” said Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. “The reconstruction of Underwood Creek Parkway reconnects residents to our parks, adds a safe, dedicated section of the Oak Leaf Trail, and invests in stormwater management and reforestation. That's how we build a healthier, more connected Milwaukee County for generations to come."
“What was once a pothole-filled problem is now a community gem,” said Milwaukee County Supervisor Shawn Rolland. “We’ve transformed Underwood Parkway from a teeth-shattering obstacle course for cyclists, hikers and motorists into an attractive destination for recreation and a real source of pride.”
“This project allowed us to completely rethink what Underwood Creek Parkway could provide for our park visitors,” said Milwaukee County Parks Executive Director Guy Smith. “We’re not only bringing the parkway back to a usable condition,but also creating a permanent addition to the Oak Leaf Trail, improving safety for bicyclists and incorporating green infrastructure and natural restoration into the project.”
As part of the reconstruction, a portion of the former Underwood Creek Parkway was converted from roadway into a separated section of the Oak Leaf Trail, creating dedicated space for trail users without vehicular hazards. The new section features bike racks and vehicular gates designed to improve safety.
The reconstructed parkway also includes shared-use lanes, street parking, and a reconstructed retaining wall, along with green infrastructure designed to better manage stormwater and support the surrounding environment.
The project also included the removal of an abandoned park building. The area surrounding the former building is being reforested, restoring woodland habitat and returning the site to a more natural landscape. The State Historic Preservation Office reviewed and approved the removal of the building.
The completed parkway continues to provide public vehicular access to Wil-O-Way, Firefly Ridge and Hansen Golf Course, as well as authorized vehicular access to Wisconsin Lutheran College facilities.
Community input helped shape the project. In March 2024, Milwaukee County Parks held a public input meeting to gather feedback on two design alternatives. Alternative A was selected by a near-unanimous margin and was incorporated into the final project design.
The project was made possible through $3.8m in County funding, as well as $278,300 associated with impacts from Wisconsin Department of Transportation work on U.S. Highway 41. The funding allowed Milwaukee County Parks to move forward with the complete reconstruction of Underwood Creek Parkway following the completion of the I-41 construction.
Milwaukee County Parks thanks WLC for its continued access agreement and support for the conversion of a portion of the former parkway to the Oak Leaf Trail. Parks also thanks Wauwatosa Fire Department for its continued access partnership and support throughout the design and construction of the project. Both partners provided important input and coordination that helped make the improvements possible.
The completed project represents a significant investment in Milwaukee County Parks infrastructure while supporting recreation, trail connectivity, safety and environmental stewardship as well as pavement reductions that are a part of the Parks Department’s strategic goals.
Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
Friday, Oct. 9, 2026 1:15 p.m. Underwood Creek Parkway
Milwaukee County Parks will celebrate the completion of the Underwood Creek Parkway reconstruction with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 1:15 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 9. Community members are invited to join Milwaukee County Parks, Milwaukee County elected officials and project partners to celebrate the completed improvements.
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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