Bender Park Roadway and Drainage Replacement

Bender Park is a 303-acre park in Oak Creek that primarily provides passive recreation opportunities through restored natural areas as well as access to Lake Michigan for water recreation. The slopes in the park have experienced a variety of failures due to compromised drainage and stormwater management, which in turn have negatively impacted the hard surfaces in the park. The main roadway pavement rating is 34/100, and Parks frequently receives complaints about its condition.

The scope of work for this project includes the replacement of Bender Park Roadway and walkway to the Boat Launch and Lakefront access. This comprehensive project is required to address both drainage and the roadway surface. Overlooks, drainage improvements, slope stability improvements, stormwater best management practices, landscaping, guardrails, green infrastructure, improvements to utilities, natural area restoration, and management shall also be incorporated. Planning and 90% design plans are complete, and the project was funded as a 2026 Capital Project. Bidding of the project is anticipated in Spring 2026, with construction anticipated in late Summer/Fall 2026.

Project Update as of 6/29/26

Bender Boat Launch Sediment Abatement (Dredging) – As noted last month, the boat launch re-opened to the public on Tuesday, May 19. Bender Park Road and the entrance to the park is also open. The Contractor is continuing restoration work in the area of the upper gravel parking lot. Active construction projects will be present at the park for several more months as additional improvements continue, including grading and paving work along the Oak Leaf Trail and adjacent roadway infrastructure. Milwaukee County Parks urges all visitors and boaters to drive slowly, follow posted signage, and use caution while traveling through the area.

Bender Park Oak Leaf Trail Extension –The new Oak Leaf Trail between Bender Park Road and Oakwood Road is currently being paved. Continued trail grading, hauling activities, and paving south of Bender Park Road will continue this upcoming month. Contractor is also performing grading, vegetation restoration and installation of amenities such as fencing, bike and bench pads. Traffic control is established as necessary adjacent to Bender Park Road and at Fitzsimmons and Oakwood Roads.

Bender Park Roadway & Stormwater Management – This project is anticipated to be bid in July, with construction anticipated to start in late Summer/Fall 2026.