A true community effort

The Town of Rome in Adams County, Wisconsin, was interested in creating and implementing a comprehensive outdoor recreation plan for their community in order to serve the nearly 3,000 residents and large influx of seasonal tourists. A strong partner was found in the Legacy Foundation of Central Wisconsin, which generously donated $500,000 toward the project. This contribution, along with support from Thrivent Financial and a collection of donations from community members, allowed Rome to move forward into construction of a new splash pad park and supporting amenities.

Phase I of the project included the design and build of a splash pad, adjoining playground, landscaped parkland, picnic area, benches with shade structures, bike racks, an ADA-accessible drinking fountain and elevated crosswalk speed table.

Phase II will consist of a court sport plaza, including a basketball court, two pickleball courts, cornhole, ping pong tables, a gaga pit, picnic shelter, picnic tables and additional player benches with shade. There will also be a walking trail, an exercise node and a covered performance stage so the Town of Rome can have live bands perform in the park.

Patience through late-season snow

MSA contributed overall park design and engineering expertise to the project, mapping out utility locations and sites for stormwater, including the implementation of a riprap swale. MSA had an engineer onsite to ensure proper construction and to help the project run as smoothly as possible in order to stay on schedule. Unfortunately, the snow Wisconsin received in April did set the project grand-opening back a week, but the project was still eagerly anticipated and well-celebrated come ribbon-cutting time.

The Rome park project represents a true community endeavor, with citizens and partners all contributing to its success. The project included a robust community involvement piece and it is certain to be enjoyed by residents and guests of all ages for years to come.