Milwaukee County Explores Building Trails on North and Northwest Sides

The study will evaluate potential trail route options for a 7-mile corridor along the 30th Street railroad.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Milwaukee County is conducting a feasibility study and seeking community feedback on the possibility of building a bike and pedestrian trail that would connect Milwaukee's northwest side neighborhoods to the local trail network. The study will evaluate potential trail route options for a 7-mile corridor along the 30th Street railroad between the Hank Aaron State Trail and Havenwoods State Forest, which could connect several regional trail systems and create an 18-mile Milwaukee Loop.

Why it matters

The west and northwest sides of Milwaukee have limited access to recreational trails, and this proposed trail project could improve connectivity and access to the local trail network for residents in those underserved neighborhoods.

The details

The study is facilitated by the county's Department of Transportation through a Transportation Alternatives Grant administered by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. It will be completed in mid-2027, and future phases surrounding the trail's design and construction will be dependent on the county's ability to obtain funding. The public can provide feedback at an upcoming meeting on February 24 and through an online survey open through March 6.

  • The public information and discussion meeting will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on February 24, 2026.
  • The online survey will be open through March 6, 2026.
  • The feasibility study is expected to be completed in mid-2027.

The players

Milwaukee County Department of Transportation

The county department conducting the feasibility study and seeking community feedback on the proposed trail project.

Wisconsin Department of Transportation

The state agency administering the Transportation Alternatives Grant that is funding the Milwaukee County trail feasibility study.

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What’s next

Future phases surrounding the trail's design and construction will be dependent on the county's ability to obtain funding.

The takeaway

This proposed trail project could significantly improve recreational access and connectivity for residents in Milwaukee's underserved northwest neighborhoods, but its ultimate realization will depend on the county securing the necessary funding.