The Village of Sauk City is located in a scenic area along the Wisconsin River, yet access to the river and the ability to full enjoy the waterfront had long been hampered by existing privately owned properties in key locations along the riverbanks. The community wished to improve this accessibility with a trail that would connect the Business District of Sauk City with August Derleth Park — now renamed Sauk City Riverfront Park — at the north end of the Village.

MSA assisted the Village Administrator in a grant application to the Department of Natural Resources. The Village was successful in obtaining Stewardship Funding to construct four distinct phases of the trail system encompassing 1.8 miles of multiuse path. The route was surveyed, identified and easement descriptions were provided where the proposed trail crossed private lands.

MSA met with Village officials and the property owners to build consensus for the project. The first phase of the project included a park pavilion, trail, footbridges, and lighting. Later phases included more trails with shoreline stabilization and park improvements. The final phase included an urban design section that is part of an overall revitalization of the downtown area which provides a connection to the trail system along US Highway 12 and the Wisconsin River Bridge.

The Wisconsin River through Sauk City is now more accessible for pedestrian enjoyment. In addition, the riverwalk path connects to a newly updated and revitalized playground, shelter, and other recreational amenities at the Sauk City Riverfront Park. These increased opportunities allow residents and guests to gather together and are sure to be enjoyed for generations to come.