Two Rivers, Wisconsin, is moving forward with significant upgrades to the Neshotah Beach pavilion and concessions building. The city council recently approved a substantial budget for these renovations. Concurrently, a new pilot program will introduce parking fees for certain lots on the busiest days next summer, aiming to support beach maintenance.
These changes reflect years of discussion and planning. The goal is to enhance visitor experience and ensure the long-term sustainability of the popular beach area.
Key Takeaways
- Two Rivers City Council approved a $450,000 budget for Neshotah Beach pavilion and concessions upgrades.
- A pilot program will charge $10 daily for parking in two busy lots on 10 peak days next summer.
- Funds generated from parking will support beach maintenance and operations.
- The initiatives aim to shift some financial burden from taxpayers to beach users.
- Future beach funding decisions will use data from the parking program.
Neshotah Beach Facility Renovation Details
The Two Rivers City Council officially approved a budget of $450,000 for the renovation of the Neshotah Beach pavilion and concessions building. This decision was made during a city council meeting on Monday.
City Manager Kyle Kordell noted that discussions about upgrading these facilities have been ongoing for several years. Formal planning began in early 2023. This was when the City Council adopted a comprehensive master plan for Neshotah Park, which included these specific improvements.
"Upgrades to the Neshotah pavilion and concession stand have been talked about for many years. They started to get formalized in the early part of 2023, when the City Council adopted a Neshotah Park master plan," said Kyle Kordell, city manager for Two Rivers.
Long-Term Vision for Neshotah Park
The master plan provides a roadmap for future developments and maintenance at Neshotah Park. It considers various aspects, including visitor flow, accessibility, and the overall aesthetic appeal of the beach area. The current renovation project is a key component of this broader vision.
Improving the pavilion and concessions is expected to enhance the experience for thousands of visitors who frequent Neshotah Beach annually. These facilities are central to the beach's operation, providing essential services and amenities.
Quick Fact
Neshotah Beach is a significant recreational hub for Two Rivers, drawing both local residents and tourists, especially during the summer months. Its popularity makes ongoing maintenance and upgrades crucial for community enjoyment.
New Parking Fee Pilot Program Initiated
In addition to the renovation budget, the City Council also approved a pilot program to implement parking fees. This program will charge drivers $10 per day to park in two of the beach's busiest parking lots. These fees will be active on 10 peak days during the upcoming summer season.
The introduction of parking fees has generated mixed reactions within the community. Adam Wachowski, Vice President of the Two Rivers City Council, acknowledged both positive and negative feedback.
"There has been some negative, a lot of positive feedback on it, and I think the biggest takeaway was some of the surrounding neighborhoods were worried about some excess traffic due to people maybe not wanting to pay," said Adam Wachowski.
Community Perspectives on Parking Charges
Concerns were raised by residents in nearby neighborhoods about potential overflow traffic. They worried that drivers might avoid the paid lots and instead park on residential streets to bypass the fee.
However, many residents also expressed support for the initiative, particularly if the funds directly benefit the beach. Jonathon Herrick, a Two Rivers resident, shared a positive outlook.
"I feel fine about it. As long as the money is going towards the beach and keeping it one of the nicer beaches around here, that’s all that really matters. It’s not all the time, so it’s not like it’s really a pocket breaker," said Jonathon Herrick.
Context on Funding
Local governments often explore various revenue streams to fund public services and amenities. User fees, like the proposed parking charge, are one method to ensure that those who directly benefit from a service contribute to its upkeep, reducing the burden on general taxpayers.
Funding Beach Maintenance and Operations
The revenue collected from the new parking fees will be specifically allocated to beach maintenance and operations. This includes tasks such as sand grooming, facility cleaning, lifeguard services, and general upkeep of the beach environment.
The primary goal of this funding strategy is to shift some of the financial burden from local taxpayers directly to the users of the beach. This approach aims to create a more equitable system for funding public recreational areas.
It is important to note that parking in other designated areas will remain free. This includes parking along Zlatnik Drive and Pierce Street. This ensures that visitors still have options for free parking, even during peak days, though these areas may be further from the main beach access points.
- Paid Lots: Two busiest lots near the main beach entrance.
- Free Parking: Along Zlatnik Drive and Pierce Street, and other designated areas.
- Fee Amount: $10 per day.
- Frequency: 10 peak days next summer.
Future Decisions Based on Pilot Program Data
The pilot parking program is designed to gather valuable data. Information collected from this trial period will be used to inform future decisions regarding beach funding. This data will include parking usage, revenue generated, and any impacts on surrounding areas.
The City Council will review the program's effectiveness after the summer season. This evaluation will determine if the parking fees become a permanent fixture or if adjustments are needed. The aim is to find the most effective and fair way to fund the beach's needs.
The city's commitment to maintaining Neshotah Beach as a premier destination is clear through these investments. Balancing community needs with financial sustainability remains a key objective for Two Rivers officials.
