In an effort to restore and protect wildlife habitat in Kenosha County, the Village of Pleasant Prairie will begin the first phase of a multi-year trail development project. Phase one of the project includes the construction of 230 feet of elevated boardwalk and a wood framed pedestrian bridge over the Des Plaines River west of existing wooded trail in Prairie Springs Park. In addition, educational signage and interpretive exhibits will be installed along the path to highlight key features of the surrounding ecosystem and the history of the land. Completion of this phase of the project is anticipated in 2008.
By project completion, it is estimated that approximately 15,000 linear feet of unpaved trails will run through the undeveloped portion of Prairie Springs Park. The project will be partially funded by a grant from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. The Village will provide additional funding for labor associated with the project. The Tremper High School Building Trades Program will provide labor for the first phase of the Trail Development Project. The Building Trades Program offers school-to-career classes for students considering a career in building trades.
"The project, thus far, has been an all-around positive experience. Working both with the DNR and Tremper's Business Trades Program has created an opportunity for all of us to contribute to the preservation of our local environment," commented John Steinbrink Jr, Streets and Parks Superintendent for the Village. "Partnering with the Building Trades Program offers dual benefits. It helps the Village keep labor costs low while providing real life work experience for area youth. I look forward to seeing the project unfold."