A brand-new trail connection has opened in Sturgeon Bay, enhancing access and safety for walkers, runners, and cyclists. The newly constructed boardwalk beneath the Bayview Bridge and Highway 42/57 now links the Ahnapee State Trail to Sturgeon Bay’s west side, creating a more scenic and secure route for trail users.
This project allows pedestrians and bicyclists in Sturgeon Bay to access the Ahnapee State Trail near the bridge without crossing active traffic on Highway 42/57. On the north side of the highway, a 12-foot-wide trail has been constructed parallel to the road, leading toward the Bayview Bridge. This segment connects to an 8-foot-wide boardwalk built under the bridge and over sensitive wetland areas. From there, the trail joins another 12-foot-wide section that links directly to the existing Bayview Bridge Trail and the Ahnapee State Trail.
Sturgeon Bay Mayor David Ward says that the work isn't finished as more plans are in the works to connect more of Sturgeon Bay to the Downtown Corridor.
According to project estimates by Cedar Corporation, the new connection—including crushed limestone trail segments and a 365-foot-long elevated boardwalk—was completed at an estimated cost of over $440,000.
This trail enhancement was made possible through generous contributions from The Raibrook Foundation and Destination Door County’s Community Investment Fund, each donating $100,000. The City of Sturgeon Bay provided additional funding.
