The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is actively soliciting feedback from the public on its proposed trail network concept plan for Rib Mountain State Park. The Greater Wausau Prosperity Partnership, alongside the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, curated this trail network plan, which envisions various recreational improvements, aligning with the park's master plan. Highlighting the planned enhancements, the concept introduces a multiuse community path, a shared use trail, improvements to hiking trails, a bike-optimized path, expansion of the ski area, and snowmobile trail realignment.
Residents and interested parties have until March 2, 2025, to voice their opinions and suggestions through an online public input form. Developed with community engagement in mind, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources also presents an opportunity for face-to-face discourse during a public meeting scheduled for Thursday, February 13. Held at Northcentral Technical College's Professional Conference Center in Wausau, doors to the event open at 5:45 p.m., while the presentation kicks off at 6 p.m., according to the department's release.
The public presentation will delve into Rib Mountain State Park's history and elaborate on the trail network concept. Willing to share their thoughts are invited to do so at this event, or by the aforementioned online form. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources stresses the importance of community input, ensuring that the plan resonates with the needs and wants of those it will affect the most.
For those who prefer to review the plan in a tangible format, the concept plan is available at both, the Rib Mountain State Park office and the Marathon County Public Library Headquarters located at 300 N. First Street, Wausau, WI 54403. With the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources accommodation of diverse input avenues, they're making sure the feedback process is as inclusive as possible; calling ahead to the park office prior to arrival is a gentle reminder to ensure the facility is open for those who wish to view the plan in person or to fill out a comment card.
