SHAWANO, WI – A new recreational attraction is taking shape at Kuckuk Park as construction begins today on a skills track designed for mountain bikes, scooters, skateboards and other wheeled recreation.
Shawano Parks and Recreation Director Matt Hendricks announced the project during last week’s Shawano Common Council meeting, calling it a unique addition to the city’s growing list of outdoor recreation opportunities.
“One is a skills track for mountain bikes and other pedal scooters, skateboards I guess, that will be down at Kuckuk Park,” Hendricks said.
The project has been more than two years in the making and is the result of a partnership between the city and local outdoor recreation advocates.
“That’s been a two-and-a-half-year project,” Hendricks said. “A big shout out to Garrett Smith and Brian Greives for making that happen.”
According to Hendricks, the skills track is expected to be the first facility of its kind anywhere in Shawano County.
“As far as I know, this will be the only such course in all of Shawano County,” Hendricks said. “Again, we’re trying to fill niches that aren’t filled otherwise.”
Perhaps the most notable aspect of the project is that it comes at no cost to local taxpayers.
“This is a fully privately funded endeavor, to the tune of probably north of $50,000 worth of work being done down there,” Hendricks said.
The project is being funded entirely by Shawano Adventure Sports, a division of Shawano Pathways that focuses on expanding outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the community.
Construction officially begins today and Hendricks said residents may notice equipment and construction activity in the park over the coming weeks.
“When dirt starts to move and equipment starts to roll in the parks, people go, ‘What’s going on? What’s happening?'” Hendricks said. “So if you get calls, it’s cool, it’s legit.”
City officials say the project highlights the value of community partnerships and volunteer-driven efforts to improve local recreational amenities.
Residents with questions about the project or other park improvements are encouraged to contact their district alderperson or the Shawano Parks and Recreation Department.
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