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.
“This project allowed us to completely rethink what Underwood Creek Parkway could provide for our park visitors,” Milwaukee County Parks Executive Director Guy Smith said. “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.”
Underwood Creek Parkway was already in poor condition and remained closed for several years during construction associated with Interstate 41.
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Following the completion of the project, county funding allowed Milwaukee County Parks to rebuild the parkway and make additional improvements to the surrounding parkland. The project was made possible through $3.8 million in county funding, as well as $278,300 associated with impacts from Wisconsin Department of Transportation work on U.S. Highway 41.
“What was once a pothole-filled problem is now a community gem,” Milwaukee County Supervisor Shawn Rolland said. “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.”
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 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 around which is being reforested, restoring woodland habitat and returning the site to a more natural landscape, with the State Historic Preservation Office’s approval.
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.
“This project is an example of how we can take an infrastructure challenge and create an opportunity to make meaningful improvements for our residents,” Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley said in a statement. “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.”
