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AGENDA
City of Milton
Parks & Recreation Commission
Monday, September 21, 2026
6:00 p.m.
Department of Public Works Facility
150 Northside Drive
Milton, WI 53563
Call To Order
Approve Agenda
Approval Of Minutes - July 20, 2026
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES 07-20-2026.PDF
Discussion And Possible Action Regarding The Draft Comprehensive Outdoor
Recreation Plan
CORP DRAFT 9-14-2026.PDF
Discussion And Possible Action Regarding The Community House Planning Project
MILTON COMMUNITY HOUSE RENDERING PROPOSAL_2026-07-29.PDF
RENDERING TIER OPTIONS_2026-01-07.PDF
Discussion And Possible Action Regarding Northridge Park Playground
NORTHRIDGE PARK PLAYGROUND INSPECTION NOTES.PDF
Discussion And Possible Action Regarding Review Of Park Rental Fee Schedule
PARK USE APPLICATION.PDF
Next Meeting Date - October 19, 2026
General Items
Motion To Adjourn
**Please note that upon reasonable notice, at least 48 hours in advance, efforts will be made to
accommodate the needs to disabled individuals through appropriate aids and services. For
additional information to request this service, please contact the City Clerk ’s office at 868-6900,
710 S. Janesville Street, Milton, WI 53563.
Notice is hereby given that a majority of the Common Council may be present at this meeting at
the above mentioned date and time to gather information about a subject over which they have
decision-making responsibility. This constitutes a meeting of the City Council pursuant to State ex
rel. Badke v. Greendale Village Bd., 173 Wis. 2d 553, 494 N.W. 2d 408 (1993) and must be
noticed as such, although the City Council will not take any formal action at this meeting.
Posted by: Jenny Salvo, September 18, 2026 at Hometown Ace Hardware, Piggly Wiggly, Milton
City Hall
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AGENDA
City of Milton
Parks & Recreation Commission
Monday, September 21, 2026
6:00 p.m.
Department of Public Works Facility
150 Northside Drive
Milton, WI 53563
Call To Order
Approve Agenda
Approval Of Minutes - July 20, 2026
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES 07-20-2026.PDF
Discussion And Possible Action Regarding The Draft Comprehensive Outdoor
Recreation Plan
CORP DRAFT 9-14-2026.PDF
Discussion And Possible Action Regarding The Community House Planning Project
MILTON COMMUNITY HOUSE RENDERING PROPOSAL_2026-07-29.PDF
RENDERING TIER OPTIONS_2026-01-07.PDF
Discussion And Possible Action Regarding Northridge Park Playground
NORTHRIDGE PARK PLAYGROUND INSPECTION NOTES.PDF
Discussion And Possible Action Regarding Review Of Park Rental Fee Schedule
PARK USE APPLICATION.PDF
Next Meeting Date - October 19, 2026
General Items
Motion To Adjourn
**Please note that upon reasonable notice, at least 48 hours in advance, efforts will be made to
accommodate the needs to disabled individuals through appropriate aids and services. For
additional information to request this service, please contact the City Clerk ’s office at 868-6900,
710 S. Janesville Street, Milton, WI 53563.
Notice is hereby given that a majority of the Common Council may be present at this meeting at
the above mentioned date and time to gather information about a subject over which they have
decision-making responsibility. This constitutes a meeting of the City Council pursuant to State ex
rel. Badke v. Greendale Village Bd., 173 Wis. 2d 553, 494 N.W. 2d 408 (1993) and must be
noticed as such, although the City Council will not take any formal action at this meeting.
Posted by: Jenny Salvo, September 18, 2026 at Hometown Ace Hardware, Piggly Wiggly, Milton
City Hall
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2.
3.
Documents:
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Documents:
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Documents:
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Documents:
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City of Milton
Parks & Recreation Commission
July 20, 2026
Call To Order
Comm. Reed called the July 20 , 2026 meeting of the Parks & Recreation Commission to order at
5:3 0 p.m.
Parks & Recreation Commission Members Present: Ald. Molly Budlong, Lee Ann Hare, Logan
Purdy , Karen Reed, and Rachel Rennhack . Lucas Murphy and High School Representative Max
Olson attended via telephone.
Also Present: Administrator Paul Hensch and Director of Public Works Mark Langer
Approve Agenda
Comm. Purdy motioned to approve the agenda. Comm. H are seconded, and the motion carried
unanimously.
Approval Of Minutes – June 15, 2026
Comm. Rennhack motioned to approve the June 15 , 2026 minutes as presented . Comm. Purdy
seconded , and the motion carried unanimously.
Discussion and Possible Action Regarding the Community House Planning
Ald. Budlong motioned to direct staff to work with Angus Young for exhibits and develop a
fundraising campaign. Comm. Hare seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.
Discussion and Possible Action Regarding Park Signs
Ald. Budlong motio ned to approve the proposed park signs as discussed. Comm. Hare seconded,
and the motion carried unanimously.
Discussion and Possible Action Regarding the Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan
Ald. Budlong motioned to set the public hearing for the Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan
on August 19 at 6:00 p.m. The hearing will be held in the Council Chambers at Milton City Hall.
Comm. Purdy seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.
General Items
There were no general item s discussed during the meeting.
Next Meeting Date
The next meeting is scheduled for August 17 , 2026 at 5:30 p.m. at the Department of Public Works
facility.
Motion To Adjourn
Comm. Hare motioned to adjourn the July 20 , 2026 meeting of the Parks & Recreation
Commission at 6: 15 p.m. Comm. Purdy seconded, and the motion carried unanimously.
Respectfully Submitted,
Jenny Salvo
City Clerk
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Executive Summary
The City of Milton ’s Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (CORP) 202 7 –203 1
establishes a five-year framework for maintaining, improving, and expanding the City ’s
parks, trails, recreational facilities, and natural areas. The plan is intended to guide
future decisions regarding park investments, capital improvements, land acquisition,
recreation programming, accessibility, trail connectivity, and partnerships while ensuring
that Milton remains eligible for competitive state and federal recreation funding.
Milton has a strong foundation on which to build. The City maintains a diverse system of
parks and recreational spaces that serve residents throughout the community, ranging
from neighborhood playgrounds and athletic fields to natural areas, trails, the Mud Lake
shoreline, the Goodrich Square Splash Pad, and specialized facilities such as the Milton
Community House and Tails and Trails D og P ark. Milton ’s location within the Janesville
metropolitan area, its natural resources, and its connections to regional recreational
assets , including the Ice Age Trail and Glacial River Trail - provide opportunities to
strengthen the City's role as a destination for outdoor recreation.
At the same time, the City ’s recreational needs are changing. Population growth has
been modest, but household growth and continued residential development are
increasing demand for accessible neighborhood recreation, trails, open space, and
modern amenities. An aging population creates additional demand for accessible and
passive recreation, while families and younger residents continue to seek playgrounds,
athletic opportunities, trails, water recreation, and community activities. The City must
therefore look beyond the total amount of parkland it owns and focus on the quality,
accessibility, distribution, and connectivity of that parkland.
Community Priorities
Public input was an important component of the 202 7 –203 1 CORP. Residents
participated through surveys, meetings, and a community park and trail mapping
activity. The feedback demonstrates strong support for Milton ’s existing park system
while identifying several opportunities for improvement.
When residents were asked in a budgeting exercise to allocate $100 of "play money" in
$10 increments, among potential investments, the strongest priorities were:
Trails & Connectivity - $ 45 0
Playgrounds & Park Upgrades - $ 35 0
Aquatics and Water Features - $ 24 0
Natural Areas & Passive Recreation - $ 22 0
Maintenance & Repairs - $ 16 0
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New Parks & Land Acquisition - $ 13 0
Sports Fields & Facilities - $ 4 0
Residents also identified expanded trail connections, improved playgrounds and
amenities, increased safety, additional recreation programming, water recreation,
accessible facilities, and better communication about available recreational
opportunities as important needs.
The community ’s message is clear: Milton has a strong park system, but residents want
the system to be better connected, more accessible, more modern, and easier to use.
Five-Year Direction
The 202 7 –203 1 CORP establishes a balanced approach to future investment.
Traditional acreage standards remain useful for evaluating the overall supply of
parkland, but acreage alone does not determine whether a community has an effective
recreation system. Milton will place increasing emphasis on accessibility, geographic
distribution, facility quality, connectivity, and the ability of parks to serve residents of
different ages and abilities.
The City ’s primary direction for the next five years is to:
1. Expand trails and bicycle/pedestrian connections to create a more connected
system linking neighborhoods, parks, schools, and regional trails.
2. Improve the quality of existing parks by addressing aging infrastructure,
playground equipment, parking, restrooms, shelters, pathways, and other
amenities.
3. Increase accessibility and inclusivity by addressing ADA deficiencies and
ensuring that residents of all abilities can participate in outdoor recreation.
4. Expand recreation opportunities for children, teens, adults, and seniors, including
both organized and informal recreation.
5. Enhance water-based recreation and evaluate opportunities to improve existing
facilities and provide additional water recreation opportunities.
6. Protect and enhance natural areas including prairie, wetlands, and other
environmentally significant areas while incorporating appropriate passive
recreation and educational opportunities.
7. Plan for future growth by identifying areas where additional parkland, trails, or
recreational facilities may be needed as development occurs.
8. Strengthen partnerships and pursue outside funding through grants, schools,
regional organizations, nonprofit organizations, and other community partners.
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Priority Investments
The plan identifies a number of specific improvements throughout Milton ’s park system.
These include accessibility improvements at Lamar and South Goodrich Parks,
improvements to the Milton Community House at North Goodrich Park, parking and
circulation improvements at Liberty Park, improvements to Mud Lake access,
playground and amenity improvements, trail connections, and continued development of
natural areas.
A particularly important priority is improving connectivity between parks and
neighborhoods. There is currently an opportunity to work with developers and land
owners to connect the City owned Crossridge Park to the School District owned
Schillberg Park. The proposed Crossridge Park –Schilberg Park multi-use path
represents the type of investment envisioned by this plan: a project that improves
recreational opportunities while also strengthening connections between existing
community assets.
The plan also recognizes that some improvements are relatively small but can have a
significant impact on the user experience. Benches, water fountains, pathways, signage,
shade, bicycle facilities, accessible surfaces, and improved communication about
available facilities can make existing parks more useful without requiring the acquisition
of additional land.
Implementation
The CORP is intended to be a working document rather than a static list of projects.
Recommendations will be incorporated into the City's annual budgeting process, Capital
Improvement Program, grant applications, development review, park planning, and
future land acquisition decisions.
Projects should be prioritized based on safety, accessibility, community benefit, system
connectivity, facility condition, available funding, and opportunities to leverage outside
resources. The Parks & Recreation Commission, City staff, Plan Commission, Common
Council, community partners, and residents will each have a role in implementing the
plan.
The City should also review the CORP annually to evaluate progress, update project
priorities and costs, identify new funding opportunities, and respond to changing
community needs. Amendments may be considered when significant new opportunities
or needs arise.
A Vision for 203 1
By 203 1 , Milton should have a parks and recreation system that is connected,
accessible, well-maintained, diverse, and responsive to the needs of its residents. Parks
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should function not as isolated properties, but as an interconnected system of
recreation, transportation, natural resources, community gathering spaces, and
neighborhood assets.
The 202 7 –203 1 CORP provides the framework to accomplish that vision. By focusing on
connectivity, quality, accessibility, natural resources, programming, strategic growth,
and responsible investment, Milton can build upon the strengths of its existing park
system while preparing for the community's future.
Section 1: Introduction
The City of Milton recognizes that strategic investment in parks and recreation is critical
to sustaining a high quality of life, supporting economic development, and positioning
the community for future growth. Well-designed parks and recreation systems not only
promote health and wellness, but also enhance neighborhood desirability, strengthen
property values, attract visitors, and preserve the natural resources that define the
community.
Milton has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to these priorities through
recognized achievements, including designation as a Playful City USA community, a
Tree City USA community, and an Ice Age Trail Community. These distinctions reflect a
continued emphasis on creating accessible, high-quality recreational opportunities and
maintaining strong environmental stewardship.
Building on this foundation, the City is advancing its next Comprehensive Outdoor
Recreation Plan (CORP) to guide park and recreation investments over the coming five-
year period. This plan is not only a policy document, but a strategic tool to align
community priorities, infrastructure planning, and funding opportunities. An updated and
adopted CORP is essential to maintain eligibility for competitive grant programs through
the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) and other state and federal
funding sources.
The updated CORP is intended to:
Position the City to successfully compete for state and federal grant funding
Identify targeted investments that enhance community livability and economic
vitality
Expand access to both active and passive recreational opportunities for residents
of all ages and abilities
Establish clear service standards to guide equitable and sustainable park
development
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Provide prioritized, cost-informed recommendations to support long-term Capital
Improvement Planning (CIP)
As Milton continues to grow and evolve, the need for high-quality, accessible, and well-
maintained parks becomes increasingly important. This plan ensures that future
investments are intentional, financially responsible, and responsive to community
needs.
State guidelines require the CORP to be updated every five years to maintain WDNR
eligibility. More importantly, this update ensures the City remains proactive , leveraging
available funding, addressing emerging needs, and continuing to enhance Milton ’s
reputation as a community that values quality of life and thoughtful growth.
Section 2 : Planning Process
The City of Milton ’s Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (CORP) builds upon prior
planning efforts while positioning the community for continued investment, growth, and
enhanced quality of life. The City previously adopted a CORP covering 2001 –2005.
While an update was drafted for 2006 –2010, it was not formally adopted. As a result, the
2001 –2005 plan served as a foundational reference in the development of the 2020 –2024
CORP.
As the City enters the 202 7 –203 1 planning cycle, the CORP is being updated to reflect
current conditions, community priorities, and emerging opportunities. The plan is
intended to function as a living document , guiding long-term decision-making while
remaining flexible enough to respond to new projects, partnerships, and funding
opportunities.
Amendment Process
To ensure the CORP remains current and actionable, amendments may be considered
following adoption. The amendment process provides a structured and transparent
approach:
1. The Parks & Recreation Commission or City staff identifies a need, opportunity,
or project not currently addressed in the CORP, including input from residents or
stakeholders.
2. Staff prepares a proposed amendment outlining the need, proposed
improvements, and estimated costs.
3. The Parks & Recreation Commission reviews the amendment and forwards a
recommendation to the Plan Commission.
4. The Plan Commission reviews the amendment and forwards a recommendation
to the Common Council.
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5. The Common Council takes final action to approve or deny the amendment.
This process ensures that the CORP remains responsive to community needs while
maintaining alignment with City policies and fiscal planning.
Plan Development and Approval Process
The CORP update reflects a collaborative, data-driven process involving City staff, the
Parks & Recreation Commission, and the public. The Parks & Recreation Commission
serves as the primary body guiding plan development, with additional review and formal
action by the Plan Commission and Common Council.
Key components of the planning process include:
Evaluation of existing park facilities, amenities, and conditions
Review of system-wide inventory and level of service
Public engagement through community meetings and surveys
Ongoing review and refinement of draft plan sections by the Parks & Recreation
Commission
Integration of community feedback into final recommendations
This structured approach ensures that the plan reflects both technical analysis and
community priorities.
Supporting Plans and Policy Alignment
To strengthen coordination and improve competitiveness for grant funding, the CORP is
developed in alignment with relevant local, regional, and state plans, including:
City of Milton Plans
Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan 2001 –2005
Draft Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan 2006 –2010
Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan 2020-2024
City of Milton Strategic Plan 2025-2029
City of Milton Comprehensive Plan 2026
Regional and County Plans
Janesville Metropolitan Planning Organization Long Range Transportation Plan:
Bicycle & Pedestrian Element 2025-2055
Rock County Parks, Outdoor Recreation, and Open Space Plan 2026-2030
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Rock County Bicycle & Pedestrian Plan
Ice Age Trail Corridor Plan – Rock County
State Plans
Wisconsin Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP)
Alignment with these plans ensures consistency with broader planning efforts and
supports eligibility for state and federal funding programs.
Looking Forward
The 20 27 –203 1 CORP update positions the City of Milton to proactively address growth,
evolving recreation trends, and infrastructure needs. By maintaining an up-to-date and
adopted plan, the City remains eligible for grant funding through the Wisconsin
Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) and other sources, while also ensuring that
investments in parks and recreation are strategic, equitable, and financially sustainable.
This forward-looking approach enables the City to leverage funding opportunities,
respond to community priorities, and continue enhancing Milton ’s park system as a key
asset for residents and visitors alike.
Section 3 : Community Profile
3.1 Location and Regional Context
The City of Milton is located in Rock County, northeast of the City of Janesville, and is
primarily bordered by the Town of Milton, with its southern edge adjacent to the Town of
Harmony. The City encompasses approximately 4.28 square miles and continues to
function as a growing small community within the Janesville metropolitan area.
Milton ’s location, natural features, and access to regional transportation networks
position it well for continued residential, recreational, and economic development.
3 .2 Physical Environment
Milton ’s physical environment provides both opportunities and constraints for park
planning, recreation development, and future growth. Natural features, including
topography, soils, water resources, and ecological systems, play a critical role in
shaping land use decisions.
Topography
Milton is characterized by “hill and kettle ” topography formed by glacial activity. This
landscape includes rolling uplands and depressional areas, creating visually appealing
terrain while also presenting challenges related to drainage and stormwater
management.
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A relatively flat central corridor is bordered by higher elevation ridges to the north and
south. These variations influence development patterns, infrastructure design, and the
placement of recreational amenities.
Water Resources
The area includes several shallow freshwater lakes, including Storrs Lake, Bowers
Lake, Mud Lake, Clear Lake, and Grass Lake. These features, along with surrounding
wetlands and slopes, create natural development constraints but provide significant
recreational and environmental value.
Mud Lake, partially located within the City , currently includes public access amenities
such as parking, picnic areas, and a walking trail. Additionally, Lake Koshkonong, one of
Wisconsin ’s largest inland lakes, is located nearby and serves as a regional recreational
asset.
Protection of surface water and groundwater remains a priority, as the City relies entirely
on groundwater for its drinking water supply.
Climate
Milton experiences four distinct seasons, each supporting different recreational
opportunities:
Spring and summer: active recreation, trail use, and park programming
Fall: outdoor events and passive recreation
Winter: seasonal recreation such as snow-based activities
Seasonal variation reinforces the need for a diverse and adaptable park system.
Soils
Soils in the Milton area are generally well-suited for development but require
consideration in certain locations due to erosion potential and groundwater sensitivity.
Some soil types include porous substrata, increasing the importance of managing
stormwater and protecting groundwater resources. Overall, most areas within the City
have limited engineering constraints, supporting continued development and park
improvements.
Natural Features, Flora, and Fauna
Historically a prairie landscape, much of Milton has transitioned to agricultural and
developed uses. However, the City has actively incorporated prairie restoration into its
park system and infrastructure corridors to enhance aesthetics, reduce maintenance
costs, and support pollinators.
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Regional wetlands and natural areas provide important habitat for wildlife, including
some threatened or endangered species identified by the Wisconsin Department of
Natural Resources (WDNR).
These environmental assets present opportunities to incorporate conservation,
education, and passive recreation into the park system.
3.3 Transportation and Connectivity
Milton is served by State Highways 26 and 59, with convenient access to Interstate
39/90 via nearby Janesville. The Highway 26 bypass carries significant regional traffic
and has improved mobility while reducing congestion within the City .
The City is also served by the Wisconsin & Southern Railroad, which runs east-west
through the community.
Pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure continues to expand, including:
Sidewalk networks within developed areas
On-street bicycle accommodations on select corridors
Regional trail connections, including the Ice Age Trail and Glacial River Trail
These systems are important for both recreation and transportation connectivity.
3.4 Population and Demographics
Population Trends
The City of Milton has experienced modest population growth over the past decade.
According to Esri data:
2010 population: 5,512
2020 population: 5,726
2024 population: 5,686
This represents steady long-term growth with a slight recent stabilization. Population
projections indicate continued gradual growth through 2029.
Milton ’s population distribution is generally consistent with Rock County, though the City
trends slightly younger overall.
Demographics and Diversity
Milton remains less diverse than Rock County overall, with approximately 92% of
residents identifying as White. However, diversity has been gradually increasing, and
this trend is expected to continue over time.
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Educational attainment levels in Milton exceed county averages, with a higher
proportion of residents having completed college or advanced degrees. This contributes
positively to workforce readiness and economic development potential.
3.5 Households and Income
While population growth has stabilized, the number of households continues to increase
and is projected to grow through 2029. This reflects broader trends toward smaller
household sizes and increased demand for varied housing types.
Key indicators:
Median household income: approximately $79,000 (higher than county average)
Continued projected income growth
Increasing demand for diverse housing options
These trends have implications for park usage, recreation programming, and facility
design.
Key Trends Impacting Parks and Recreation
Several demographic and economic trends directly influence recreation planning:
Household growth increases demand for neighborhood parks and accessible
amenities
Aging population segments require more accessible and passive recreation
options
Younger families drive demand for playgrounds, sports fields, and programming
Income growth supports investment in higher-quality amenities but also
highlights equity considerations
3.6 Land Use and Development Patterns
Existing Land Use
Milton ’s land use pattern includes a mix of residential, agricultural, industrial, and
recreational uses. Single-family housing remains the dominant residential type,
accounting for the majority of housing units.
Parks and open space represent a modest but important portion of total land use,
providing essential recreational opportunities and environmental benefits.
Growth and Development Trends
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The City has experienced steady residential and industrial growth in recent years,
including:
New residential subdivisions and multi-family developments
Continued expansion within the Crossroads Business Park
Ongoing commercial development along key corridors
This growth supports the local tax base and job creation, but also increases demand for
parks, trails, and recreational facilities.
3.7 Future Land Use and Planning Considerations
The City ’s Comprehensive Plan emphasizes:
Integration of parks and open space into new development
Protection of environmental corridors and natural features
Use of land dedication or fee-in-lieu programs to support park expansion
Coordination between land use decisions and infrastructure planning
As growth continues, ensuring adequate parkland, connectivity, and recreational access
will remain a key priority.
Summary
Milton ’s community profile reflects a stable and growing city with strong economic
fundamentals, a high quality of life, and increasing demand for recreational amenities.
Natural features, demographic trends, and development patterns all reinforce the
importance of continued investment in parks and recreation.
This context supports the need for a forward-looking park system that balances active
recreation, environmental stewardship, and community accessibility while positioning
the City for future funding opportunities and sustainable growth.
4 . Milton Parks and Recreation System
4 .1 Overview
The City of Milton maintains a diverse system of parks, recreational facilities, trails,
natural areas, and special-use facilities that collectively provide opportunities for active
recreation, passive recreation, community gathering, outdoor education, and connection
to the natural environment. The City's park system includes neighborhood parks,
community-scale athletic facilities, natural areas, playgrounds, water-based recreation,
specialized facilities, and trail connections that serve residents throughout the
community.
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Milton's park system is an important component of the City's overall quality of life. Parks
provide places for children to play, residents to exercise and socialize, families to
gather, organized sports to take place, and residents and visitors to experience Milton's
natural resources. The system also contributes to neighborhood desirability, community
identity, economic development, and the City's broader goal of maintaining a high
quality of life.
The City currently has a broad geographic distribution of parks and recreational spaces.
Existing facilities include playgrounds at numerous neighborhood parks; baseball and
softball facilities at Lamar, Liberty, and South Goodrich Parks; a disc golf course and
sledding hill at King Park; the Goodrich Square Splash Pad; the Milton Community
House; a dedicated dog park; prairie and pollinator areas; Mud Lake public access; and
walking and multi-use trail opportunities.
The system also benefits from connections to regional recreational resources. Milton's
pedestrian and bicycle network includes sidewalks, on-street bicycle accommodations,
and connections to the Ice Age Trail and Glacial River Trail. These facilities serve both
recreational and transportation purposes and provide an important foundation for future
trail expansion and connectivity.
Park System at a Glance
System Component Existing System
Number of Parks 17
Total Park Acreage 126.3 acres
Trails 1.5 miles
Athletic Facilities 5
Playgrounds 9
Water Recreation Facilities 2
Natural Areas 5
Special Facilities 13
The City's system should be evaluated not solely by the amount of land owned, but by
how effectively that land and its facilities serve the community. Milton's adopted park
standards therefore consider three factors: gross park acreage, facility supply, and
access and distribution. This approach recognizes that a community may have sufficient
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total acreage while still experiencing gaps in walkable access, facility quality,
accessibility, or recreational opportunities.
4 .2 Parks and Parkland
Milton's park system includes a range of park types serving different functions and
geographic areas. The system includes neighborhood-scale parks intended to provide
convenient daily recreation, larger parks supporting organized athletics and community
activities, natural and conservation-oriented areas, and special-use facilities serving
specific recreational needs.
The City's park classification system recognizes the importance of maintaining a
balance between active recreation and passive open space. Traditional planning
benchmarks identify approximately 2.5 acres of active recreation and 7.5 acres of
passive recreation per 1,000 residents, for a combined benchmark of approximately 10
acres per 1,000 residents. Milton has adopted an overall planning standard of 11 acres
of parkland per 1,000 residents.
The City recognizes, however, that acreage alone does not determine whether residents
have adequate recreational opportunities. Park location, walkability, accessibility, facility
condition, programming, and the distribution of amenities are equally important
considerations.
4 .3 Trails and Connectivity
Trails are a central component of Milton's recreation system and represent one of the
City's most important opportunities for future investment. Existing trails provide
opportunities for walking, bicycling, exercise, and informal recreation .
Milton's trail system also connects to regional recreational resources, including the Ice
Age Trail and Glacial River Trail. The City's existing network of sidewalks and bicycle
accommodations provides additional opportunities to connect parks to residential
neighborhoods and other community destinations.
Improving connectivity is a major theme of the 202 7 –203 1 CORP. Community input
identified expanded walking and biking connections as the highest priority investment
category, with residents allocating 28% of available budget points to trails and
connectivity.
Future investments should focus on completing gaps in the existing network and
creating continuous connections between neighborhoods, parks, schools, community
destinations, and regional trails. A proposed multi-use connection between Crossridge
Park and Schilberg Park is one example of the type of project that can strengthen the
overall system.
4 .4 Athletic Facilities
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Milton provides a variety of athletic and active-recreation facilities. Existing facilities
include baseball and softball diamonds, soccer-related facilities, volleyball and
horseshoe areas, disc golf, and informal open spaces.
Lamar Park contains a large and small baseball diamond, dugouts, bleachers,
scoreboards, fencing, lighting on the small diamond, a picnic shelter, sand volleyball
court, and horseshoe pits. Liberty Park contains a Little League baseball field with
dugout , bleachers, scoreboard , and concession facilities. South Goodrich Park includes
a lighted softball diamond, scoreboard, and a smaller ball diamond. King Park provides
a nine-basket disc golf course and soccer facilities.
In conjunction with Milton Youth Football and Legacy Park LLC, the city is developing
McKenna Park which will provide three football fields with concessions and other
amenities.
The City will continue to evaluate athletic facilities based on condition, demand,
accessibility, scheduling, maintenance requirements, and opportunities for multi-
purpose use. The CORP also recognizes a broader trend toward flexible recreation
spaces that can accommodate both organized athletics and informal recreation.
4 .5 Playgrounds
Playgrounds are one of the most widely distributed components of Milton's park system
and provide important opportunities for children and families. Playgrounds are located at
numerous neighborhood parks, including Crossridge , North Goodrich, Northridge,
Tower Hill, Veterans, Water Tower, Lamar, Liberty, and other City facilities.
The playground system includes traditional swings, climbers, slides, diggers, teeter-
totters, rock-and-ride equipment, and larger play structures. Crossridge Park includes
separate playground areas at the north and south ends of the park, including a larger
structure designed for children approximately 5 –12 years old, as well as a playweb ,
cruise line, and gaga ball pit.
Future playground investments should emphasize safety, accessibility, shade, age-
appropriate equipment, inclusive play opportunities, and the overall quality of the
surrounding park environment. Community input specifically identified updated
playgrounds, accessible playground equipment, seating, shade, and improved
amenities as areas for future investment.
4 .6 Water Recreation
Water-based recreation is an important component of Milton's park system and
represents an area with opportunities for additional investment.
South Goodrich Park contains the Goodrich Square Splash Pad, providing seasonal
water recreation for children and families. Mud Lake also provides public access,
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including parking, picnic areas, and a walking trail. The City has identified construction
of a fishing dock at Mud Lake as a future improvement opportunity.
Community input demonstrates interest in expanding water-based recreation. Aquatics
and water features received 15% of the available budget points in the community
investment exercise, making it one of the more significant categories identified by
residents.
Future planning should consider improvements to existing water recreation facilities as
well as opportunities for fishing, non-motorized boating, splash-pad improvements, and
other appropriate water-based activities.
4 .7 Natural Areas and Passive Recreation
Milton's park system includes natural areas that provide opportunities for passive
recreation, environmental education, habitat protection, and preservation of the City's
natural character.
Prairie restoration is incorporated into several areas of the City's park system.
Crossridge Park includes a natural prairie area, while FFA Park contains prairie and
provides an opportunity for future prairie restoration and environmental education. Story
Gardens includes a pollinator garden and raised garden beds that provide opportunities
for environmental education and community involvement.
Natural areas also contribute to stormwater management, wildlife habitat, groundwater
protection, and the preservation of environmentally sensitive areas. Milton's park
classification system recognizes nature and conservation areas as an important
component of a balanced recreation system.
The City should continue to balance preservation with appropriate low-impact
recreational uses such as walking trails, nature observation, environmental education,
and passive recreation.
4 .8 Special Facilities
Milton's park system includes several facilities that serve specialized recreational,
cultural, educational, or community functions. These facilities broaden the City's
recreational offerings beyond traditional parks and athletic fields.
Examples include:
Milton Community House at North Goodrich Park
Goodrich Square Splash Pad
Milton Area Veterans Memorial at Veterans Park
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Disc Golf Course at King Park
Tails and Trails Dog Park with separate fenced areas, dog wash station, drinking
fountain, walking trail, and retention pond
Story Gardens with pollinator and community garden features
Prairie and environmental education areas
Mud Lake public access
Community shelters, pavilions, kitchens, and restrooms
These specialized facilities contribute to Milton's community identity and provide
recreational opportunities that cannot be measured solely through traditional acreage or
athletic facility standards.
4 .9 System Strengths and Opportunities
Overall, Milton possesses a diverse park system with a strong geographic foundation
and a broad range of recreational opportunities. Community feedback confirms that
residents value the number of parks and playgrounds, the City's trail system,
connections between recreational spaces, and the diversity of facilities available
throughout the community.
The primary opportunity for the 202 7 –203 1 planning period is therefore not simply to
acquire more parkland, but to improve the function and connectivity of the existing
system. Priorities identified through the CORP include:
Connecting existing parks and trails
Improving playgrounds and park amenities
Expanding accessible recreation
Improving water recreation
Enhancing natural areas
Providing additional recreation programming
Improving wayfinding and communication
Addressing facility and infrastructure deficiencies
Acquiring or reserving parkland strategically in areas of future growth
This approach is consistent with Milton's planning direction of access over acreage and
quality over quantity.
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The result should be a park system in which individual parks function as interconnected
components of a larger community network , providing residents with convenient access
to recreation while preserving the natural and community assets that make Milton an
attractive place to live, work, and visit.
5.1 Park Classification System (Updated 2026)
The City of Milton ’s park classification system establishes a clear framework for
planning, acquiring, developing, and maintaining parkland and recreational facilities.
These classifications reflect both modern recreation planning practices and long-
standing national standards, including guidance from the National Recreation and Parks
Association (NR P A), NRPA benchmarks, and Wisconsin SCORP priorities.
Importantly, Milton recognizes that no single standard fully defines community need.
Instead, this system blends quantitative benchmarks with local context, growth trends,
and community expectations to guide investment decisions.
System-Wide Planning Framework
Historically, recreation planning has emphasized a balanced system of active and
passive recreation land. The comparative standards below illustrate long-standing
national guidance still relevant today:
Active Recreation (Playgrounds & Playfields): ~2.5 acres per 1,000 residents
Passive Recreation (Parks & Open Space): ~7.5 acres per 1,000 residents
Total System Target: ~10 acres per 1,000 residents
These benchmarks reinforce a key planning principle:
A successful park system is not defined by total acreage alone, but by the right mix of
neighborhood access, community-scale facilities, and preserved natural areas.
Additionally, long-range planning guidance emphasizes that:
Neighborhood parks must be planned at the time of subdivision development
Walkable access is critical
Missed land dedication opportunities are rarely recoverable
This principle is especially important as Milton continues to grow.
Park Classifications
Mini-Parks / Tot L ots
Purpose: Serve pre-school age children and caregivers in close proximity to
homes
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Service Area: ≤ ¼ mile (walkable access)
Size Objective: Typically under 1 acre
Planning Insight:
These spaces are most effective in higher-density or newer developments where
private yard space may be limited.
Key Amenities:
o Age-appropriate play equipment
o Seating for caregivers
o Safe, visible design separated from traffic
Neighborhood Parks (Playgrounds + Passive Space)
Purpose: The foundation of the park system, serving daily recreation needs
Service Area: ≤ ½ mile radius (walkable)
Size Objective: 5 –15 acres
Planning Insight:
Consistent with national standards, neighborhood parks should ideally:
o Be co-located with schools where possible
o Function as an extension of neighborhood living space
o Include both active play and passive green space
Key Amenities:
o Playground and informal play areas
o Small sports courts/fields
o Picnic areas and shelters
o Open lawn space
Community Parks / Playfields
Purpose: Serve multiple neighborhoods and provide space for organized
athletics and large gatherings
Service Area: 1 –3 miles
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Size Objective: 15 –50+ acres
Planning Insight:
These facilities align closely with traditional “playfield ” standards (20 –25 acres)
and are essential for:
o Organized sports leagues
o Community events
o Multi-generational recreation
They should be located along collector or arterial streets to minimize neighborhood
traffic impacts.
Key Amenities:
o Athletic complexes (soccer, baseball, etc.)
o Parking and restrooms
o Trails and open space
o Event infrastructure
Special Use Parks
Purpose: Provide unique, high-demand, or revenue-generating recreational
opportunities
Service Area: Citywide or regional
Size Objective: Market- and use-driven
Planning Insight:
These parks are increasingly important for:
o Economic development
o Tourism
o Community identity
Examples:
o Splash pads
o Amphitheaters
o Sports complexes
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o Skate parks
o Festival grounds
School Park (Joint Use Facilities)
Purpose: Shared recreational use between the City and school district
Service Area: Varies (neighborhood to community scale)
Planning Insight:
National planning standards strongly encourage joint school-park development,
maximizing public investment and ensuring walkable access to recreation.
Formal agreements are critical to address:
o Maintenance
o Liability
o Scheduling and programming
Nature / Conservation Areas
Purpose: Preserve environmentally sensitive lands and provide passive
recreation
Service Area: Community-wide
Planning Insight:
These areas align with the passive recreation standard (~7.5 acres per 1,000)
and are essential for:
o Environmental protection
o Stormwater management
o Wildlife habitat
o Low-impact recreation
Amenities:
o Trails
o Nature observation
o Minimal infrastructure
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Underdeveloped Parks
Purpose: Future opportunity sites within the park system
Planning Insight:
These parks represent strategic investment opportunities where relatively small
improvements can significantly expand recreational access and system value.
Trails and Connectivity
Purpose: Link parks, neighborhoods, and regional destinations
Planning Insight:
Trails are one of the highest-demand recreation assets statewide and serve both
transportation and recreation purposes.
5.2 Park Standards (Updated 2026)
Balanced System Approach
Milton ’s park system is evaluated using a combination of:
1. Gross acreage standards (acres per 1,000 residents)
2. Facility-based standards (fields, courts, etc.)
3. Access and distribution (walkability and equity)
Rather than relying on a single metric, the City prioritizes a balanced and accessible
system.
Gross Space Standard
Historically, communities have used a benchmark of:
10 acres per 1,000 residents (national standard)
10 –12 acres per 1,000 (typical for smaller communities)
Milton has adopted:
11 acres per 1,000 residents
This standard:
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Aligns with both national guidance and regional expectations
Reflects Milton ’s balance of active recreation and natural areas
Supports eligibility for state and federal funding programs
Key Planning Considerations
Acreage alone does not ensure service adequacy
Distribution and accessibility are equally important
School lands and regional facilities may supplement local supply
Strategic Interpretation
While Milton currently shows a numerical surplus of parkland, this should not limit
investment. Instead, it indicates:
Opportunities to improve quality and amenities
Need to address geographic gaps in access
Importance of developing underutilized parkland
Activity / Facility Standards
Facility standards help ensure that the system meets actual recreational demand.
Key Benchmarks
Baseball/Softball: 1 field per 5,000 residents
Basketball: 1 court per 5,000 residents (plus smaller courts)
Soccer:
o 1 full-size field per 10,000
o 1 youth field per 2,000
Tennis/Volleyball: 1 court per 2,000 residents
Disc Golf: 1 course (9-hole) per 5,000 residents
Planning Insight
Modern recreation trends suggest:
Increased demand for multi-use flexible spaces
Growth in informal recreation (walking, biking, open play)
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Rising interest in non-traditional amenities (pickleball, dog parks, trails)
Planning Direction
Moving forward, Milton will prioritize:
1. Access Over Acreage
Ensuring every resident lives within a walkable distance of a park or trail
2. Quality Over Quantity
Investing in:
Updated playgrounds
Modern amenities
ADA accessibility
Year-round usability
3. Strategic Land Acquisition
Focusing on:
Growth areas
Underserved neighborhoods
Environmental corridors
4. Partnerships
Leveraging:
School district facilities
Rock County and regional trail systems
State and federal funding opportunities
Key Takeaway
While traditional standards (such as 10 acres per 1,000 residents) remain useful
benchmarks, Milton ’s future park system will be defined by accessibility, quality, and
adaptability , not just acreage totals.
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6. CURRENT CONDITIONS
6.1 College Green
Primary Function: Neighborhood / Passive Recreation
Existing Facilities
Picnic tables
Open park space
Existing Condition
College Green provides a small neighborhood-scale open space for passive recreation
and informal community use. The existing picnic tables provide basic opportunities for
gathering and outdoor use.
Identified Needs / Opportunities
Confirm the number and condition of existing picnic tables.
Consider additional seating to increase opportunities for passive use.
Consider signage explaining the history and significance of the park.
Repair the rock wall surrounding the park.
Repair or remove the stairs along Columbus Street while providing handicap
access.
Overall Planning Consideration
College Green represents an opportunity to enhance a small existing park through
relatively modest improvements focused on seating, interpretation, and site
accessibility.
6.2 Crossridge Park
Primary Function: Neighborhood / Community Recreation
Existing Facilities
Small playground on the north end
Larger playground on the south end
Walking trail
Natural prairie
Six benches along the trail
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Small gravel parking lot
Large paved parking lot shared with the Parker YMCA
Gaga ball pit
Picnic tables
Pergola constructed by the Milton Lions Club
Playground and park signage
The north playground includes two rock-and-ride toys, a digger, swings, climbers, and a
picnic table. The south playground includes a larger play structure designed for children
approximately 5 –12 years old, a playweb , cruise line, pergola, picnic tables, and the
gaga ball pit.
Existing Condition
Crossridge Park provides one of the City's more diverse neighborhood recreation
settings, combining traditional playground facilities with walking opportunities and
natural prairie. The two playground areas provide recreation for different age groups,
while the trail and prairie provide opportunities for walking and passive recreation.
Identified Needs / Opportunities
Continue development and maintenance of the natural prairie.
Provide a drinking fountain near the south playground.
Complete the planned trail system.
Evaluate trail connections to surrounding neighborhoods and other recreational
facilities.
Evaluate parking and access at the northern portion of the park.
Community input specifically identified additional trail connections at Crossridge as
desirable and expressed interest in expanding the park's recreational opportunities.
Overall Planning Consideration
Crossridge is well positioned to serve as a neighborhood recreation hub. Future
improvements should emphasize trail completion, connectivity, natural-area
stewardship, and amenities that support longer visits by families.
6.3 FFA Park
Primary Function: Natural Area / Passive Recreation
Existing Facilities
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FFA Park identification sign
Picnic tables
Prairie area
Hitching post for horses
Existing Condition
FFA Park is primarily a passive recreation and natural-area facility. Its prairie landscape
provides an opportunity for environmental stewardship, outdoor education, and low-
impact recreation.
Identified Needs / Opportunities
Continue prairie restoration and maintenance.
Provide educational information regarding prairie ecology and its importance.
Evaluate opportunities for additional passive recreation amenities that are
compatible with the site's natural character.
Community input specifically identified prairie restoration and education as an
opportunity for FFA Park.
Overall Planning Consideration
FFA Park should continue to emphasize natural-resource protection and environmental
education rather than intensive recreational development.
6.4 King Park
Primary Function: Special Use / Active Recreation
Existing Facilities
King Park identification sign
Nine-basket disc golf course
Soccer field
Soccer storage shed
Sledding Hill and sled storage shed
Bleachers
Gravel parking lot
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Berm along the east side of the parking lot
Existing Condition
King Park provides specialized recreation through its nine-basket disc golf course and
supports soccer-related activities. The gravel parking area and bleachers provide basic
support facilities.
Identified Needs / Opportunities
Evaluate the condition of the disc golf baskets and course infrastructure.
Evaluate parking conditions and drainage.
Maintain the existing berm.
Consider opportunities to improve signage and wayfinding.
Pave parking access
Overall Planning Consideration
King Park provides a specialized recreational opportunity that complements the City's
traditional playground and athletic facilities. Future improvements should focus on
maintaining the existing facility and improving user information and site access.
6.5 Lamar Park
Primary Function: Community Park / Athletic Recreation
Existing Facilities
Swings
Teeter-totter
Merry-go-round
Playground
Two park signs
Large baseball diamond
Small baseball diamond
Two scoreboards
Bleachers
Dugouts at both fields
Outfield fencing
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Drinking fountains
Lighting on the small ball diamond
Picnic shelter
Bathrooms
Kitchen
Sand volleyball court
Horseshoe pits
Memorial and dedication plaques
Existing Condition
Lamar Park is one of Milton's primary athletic and community recreation facilities. The
park combines baseball/softball facilities with playground equipment, gathering areas,
volleyball, horseshoes, restrooms, and shelter facilities.
Identified Needs / Opportunities
Improve the blacktop surface beneath the bleachers.
Provide a pathway connecting the bleachers to the fields.
Provide an accessible wheelchair seating area.
Evaluate the accessibility of playground surfaces and routes.
Continue maintenance of athletic-field infrastructure.
Evaluate the condition and accessibility of the existing restrooms, drinking
fountains, and shelter.
Overall Planning Consideration
Because Lamar serves multiple recreational functions, improvements should focus on
accessibility, spectator facilities, circulation, and continued maintenance of the athletic
complex.
6.6 Liberty Park
Primary Function: Community Park / Athletic Recreation
Existing Facilities
Two park identification signs
Bathrooms
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Concession stand
Little League baseball field
Dugout
Metal bleachers
Scoreboard
Train engine
Existing Condition
Liberty Park provides a combination of children's play opportunities and organized
baseball facilities. The concession, restroom, and spectator facilities support organized
athletic use.
Identified Needs / Opportunities
Improve parking.
Improve traffic circulation within the park.
Evaluate a one-way circulation pattern from North Clear Lake Avenue through the
parking/drop-off area toward Vincent Street.
Evaluate playground equipment and accessibility.
Continue maintenance of baseball and spectator facilities.
Overall Planning Consideration
The primary opportunity at Liberty Park is improving circulation and parking while
maintaining the park's role as a neighborhood recreation and youth baseball facility.
6.7 North Goodrich Park
Primary Function: Community Recreation / Community Facility
Existing Facilities
Milton Community House
Playground equipment
Two tunnels
Merry-go-round
Swings
Three climbers
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Digger
Two rock-and-ride toys
Slide
Teeter-totter
Three grills
Drinking fountain
Parking lot
Picnic tables
Two park identification signs
Shuffleboards
Existing Condition
North Goodrich Park provides a combination of active and passive recreation along with
one of Milton's important community facilities, the Milton Community House. The park
includes a substantial concentration of playground and gathering amenities.
The shuffleboard facilities are present but require rehabilitation.
Identified Needs / Opportunities
Transform the shuffleboard facilities into basketball courts.
Evaluate accessibility of playground routes and surfaces.
Continue to e valuate the condition of the Community House and associated site
facilities with the intention to remodel
Consider additional recreational uses for underutilized portions of the park.
Evaluate opportunities for interactive green space, or other flexible recreation
amenities.
Community input identified the western portion of North Goodrich as an opportunity for
additional community or recreational uses.
Overall Planning Consideration
North Goodrich provides an opportunity to strengthen the connection between traditional
park recreation and community-based activities. Future improvements should
emphasize flexible, multi-generational uses.
6.8 Northridge Park
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Primary Function: Neighborhood Recreation
Existing Facilities
Park identification sign
Swings
Three climbers
Two rock-and-ride toys
Digger
Slide
Existing Condition
Northridge Park is a neighborhood-scale playground facility focused primarily on
children's recreation. Its relatively compact collection of playground amenities provides
basic active recreation opportunities for nearby residents.
Identified Needs / Opportunities
Evaluate the condition and remaining useful life of playground equipment.
Evaluate accessible routes and surfacing.
Consider additional seating, shade, or other family-oriented amenities.
Overall Planning Consideration
Future improvements should focus on the purchase and installation of new playground
equipment while improving accessibility and comfort for families.
6.9 Railroad Park
Primary Function: Neighborhood / Passive Recreation
Existing Facilities
Railroad Park identification sign
Picnic tables
Existing Condition
Railroad Park is a small, passive-use park providing basic outdoor gathering space. Its
existing facilities are limited primarily to picnic tables.
Identified Needs / Opportunities
Evaluate opportunities for additional seating or passive recreation.
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Consider interpretive or historical signage.
Evaluate whether additional amenities are appropriate based on surrounding
neighborhood needs.
Overall Planning Consideration
Because of its limited existing development, Railroad Park represents an opportunity for
modest improvements without changing its primarily passive character.
6.10 South Goodrich Park
Primary Function: Community Park / Athletic and Water Recreation
Existing Facilities
Goodrich Square Splash Pad
Splashpad Donation Bin
Pavilion
Bathrooms
Kitchen
Lighted softball diamond
Scoreboard
Small ball diamond
Picnic tables
Park identification signage
Welcome to Milton sign
Existing Condition
South Goodrich Park is a multi-purpose community recreation facility combining
organized athletics, water recreation, picnic facilities, and community gathering space.
The Goodrich Square Splash Pad provides a specialized water recreation opportunity
for children and families.
Identified Needs / Opportunities
Continue maintenance of the splash pad and associated infrastructure.
Evaluate accessibility throughout the park.
Maintain athletic-field and spectator facilities.
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Evaluate opportunities for additional seating, shade, and family amenities.
Overall Planning Consideration
South Goodrich is an important multi-generational recreation facility and should continue
to serve as a major community recreation destination.
6.11 Story Gardens
Primary Function: Special Use / Natural and Educational Recreation
Existing Facilities
Pollinator garden
Two raised garden beds
Park identification/signage
Mosaic butterfly artwork
Educational and interpretive features
The pollinator garden was established in 2020 through a GROWMARK grant. The
raised garden beds were constructed by the Milton Lions Club and established through
community plant donations.
Existing Condition
Story Gardens provides a specialized natural and educational recreation experience.
The combination of pollinator habitat, community gardening, artwork, and interpretive
elements creates a distinctive facility within the City's park system.
Identified Needs / Opportunities
Continue maintenance of the pollinator garden and raised beds.
Maintain interpretive and artistic features.
Evaluate opportunities for additional educational programming.
Consider additional seating or accessible pathways where appropriate.
Overall Planning Consideration
Story Gardens should continue to emphasize environmental education, community
participation, and passive recreation.
6.12 Tails and Trails Dog Park
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Primary Function: Special Use / Pet Recreation
Existing Facilities
Playground structure
Dog wash station
Drinking fountain
Small fenced dog area
Large fenced dog area
Retention pond
Picnic tables
Benches
Walking trail
Donation bin
Existing Condition
T ails and Trails Dog Park provides a specialized recreation facility for Milton residents
and their pets. Separate fenced areas allow for different types of use, while the dog
wash station, drinking fountain, seating, and walking trail provide additional user
amenities.
Identified Needs / Opportunities
Continue maintenance of fencing and gates.
Maintain the dog wash station and drinking fountain.
Evaluate drainage and conditions around the retention pond.
Maintain the walking trail and seating.
Evaluate opportunities for additional shade.
Overall Planning Consideration
The Tails and Trails Dog Park provides a specialized recreational service that
complements the City's broader park system and responds to demand for non-traditional
recreation opportunities.
6.13 Tower Hill Park
Primary Function: Neighborhood Recreation
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Existing Facilities
Park identification sign
Two rock-and-ride toys
Digger
Climber
Toddler teeter-totter
Bench
Picnic table
Swings
Play structure
Existing Condition
Tower Hill Park provides neighborhood-scale playground recreation with equipment
serving toddlers and older children. The park also provides basic seating and picnic
opportunities.
Identified Needs / Opportunities
Evaluate playground equipment condition and remaining useful life.
Evaluate accessibility of playground routes and surfaces.
Consider additional shade and seating.
Evaluate opportunities for additional informal recreation.
Overall Planning Consideration
Tower Hill should continue to function as a neighborhood playground while future
improvements focus on equipment modernization, accessibility, and user comfort.
6.14 Veterans Park
Primary Function: Neighborhood / Community Recreation and Memorial
Existing Facilities
Playground structure for children approximately 5 –12 years old
Swings
Digger
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Rock-and-ride toy
Merry-go-round
Small shelter
Picnic table
Pavilion
Restrooms
Undesignated sports area
Milton Area Veterans Memorial
Existing Condition
Veterans Park combines children's recreation, informal open-space recreation,
community gathering facilities, and a significant civic memorial. The pavilion and
restrooms support community use, while the playground provides neighborhood
recreation.
Identified Needs / Opportunities
Evaluate playground accessibility.
Maintain the Veterans Memorial and surrounding landscape.
Improve pedestrian safety and crossings near the park.
Evaluate accessible routes between parking, playgrounds, pavilion, restrooms,
and memorial facilities.
Consider improvements to the undesignated sports area.
Community input specifically identified the need to address the crosswalk near Veterans
Park on High Street.
Overall Planning Consideration
Veterans Park serves both recreational and civic purposes. Improvements should
preserve the memorial character of the site while improving safety, accessibility, and
recreational usability.
6.15 Water Tower Park
Primary Function: Neighborhood Recreation
Existing Facilities
Water tower
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Park identification sign
Two rock-and-ride toys
Digger
Climber
Swings
Picnic table
Playground structur e
Existing Condition
Water Tower Park provides neighborhood-scale children's recreation centered around a
playground and informal gathering space. The water tower provides a distinctive visual
feature and landmark for the park.
Identified Needs / Opportunities
Continue maintenance of playground equipment.
Evaluate accessibility of the playground and surrounding surfaces.
Consider additional seating and shade.
Overall Planning Consideration
Water Tower Park provides an important neighborhood recreation function. Future
improvements should focus on maintaining the playground, improving accessibility, and
enhancing the site's identity.
6.16 Existing Park System Condition Summary
Milton's parks provide a broad range of recreational opportunities, but the condition and
level of development vary significantly from park to park. The City's system includes
highly developed athletic and community facilities as well as smaller neighborhood
parks and natural areas with relatively limited amenities.
Several common themes emerge from the existing-condition review:
Accessibility
Improving ADA accessibility should be a system-wide priority. Specific needs have been
identified at playgrounds, athletic facilities, pathways, seating areas, and other park
amenities.
Trails and Connectivity
Trail expansion and connections between parks are among the most significant
opportunities identified through the planning process. Community members consistently
identified trail connectivity as a high priority.
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Playground Modernization
The City has playgrounds distributed throughout the community, but future investment
should focus on accessibility, modernization, safety, shade, and age-appropriate
equipment.
Maintenance and Infrastructure
Routine maintenance remains essential to protecting the City's existing investment.
Pavement, pathways, athletic-field infrastructure, restrooms, shelters, signage,
playground surfaces, and other amenities should be evaluated regularly.
Water Recreation
The Goodrich Square Splash Pad provides an important water-recreation asset, while
Mud Lake presents an opportunity for additional fishing and non-motorized water
access. Community input identified additional water recreation as a priority.
Natural Areas
Prairie, pollinator gardens, and other natural areas provide environmental, educational,
and passive recreational value. These areas should be managed as intentional
components of the park system rather than simply undeveloped land.
Underutilized Spaces
Several parks contain portions of land that could support additional flexible recreation,
community gardens, educational features, or passive-use amenities without requiring
significant new land acquisition.
Overall Direction
The existing-condition assessment supports a planning strategy based on improving the
quality and connectivity of Milton's existing park system before substantially expanding
the system through new parkland acquisition. New parkland should nevertheless be
considered where future development creates geographic gaps in park access or where
strategic acquisition can protect important natural resources or provide needed
recreational opportunities.
The City's goal should be a connected system in which each park has a clearly defined
role, existing facilities are maintained and accessible, and future investments respond
directly to documented community needs.
Community Needs Assessment and Analysis
The public engagement data reveals a highly active community that views Milton ’s park
system as a potential regional destination and a primary reason for residential
relocation. However, there is a clear mandate to transition from isolated neighborhood
parks into a deeply integrated, accessible, and well-maintained network.
Four overarching themes emerged across all engagement activities:
The "Connectivity" Mandate: Trails and bike/pedestrian paths are
overwhelmingly the public's top investment priority.
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Basic Infrastructure Deficits: A significant portion of feedback focuses on
fundamental gaps like public restrooms (bubblers/bathrooms), proper finish
grading, and dedicated parking.
Universal Accessibility & Inclusivity: The community notes that current
"inclusive" labels do not match reality, calling for true ADA-compliant equipment
and surfacing.
Clarity in Communication & Digital Navigation: Residents note that recreational
programs and city park resources are currently difficult to find online.
7.1 Quantitative Public Priorities & Budget Allocation
Top Strategic Priorities (Sticker Voting)
When asked to vote on where the City should focus its efforts most, residents
highlighted a clear tier of urgency:
1. Expand Trails & Bike/Ped Connections (12 votes)
2. Upgrade Playgrounds & Park Amenities (8 votes)
3. Increase Safety: Lighting, Crossings, Visibility (8 votes)
4. Expand Recreation Programs & Events (8 votes)
5. Add Water Features / Splash Pads (7 votes)
The "Play Money" Budget Allocation Game
When forced to allocate a limited $100 budget across categories, participants
aggressively prioritized moving and playing outside over passive spaces or sports fields:
$45 0. 00 – Trails & Connectivity
$35 0 .00 – Playgrounds & Park Upgrades
$24 0 .00 – Aquatics (Splash Pads & Water Features)
$22 0 .00 – Natural Areas & Passive Recreation
$16 0 .00 – Maintenance & Repairs
$13 0 .00 – New Parks & Land Acquisition
$4 0 .00 – Sports Fields & Facilities
7.2 Comprehensive System-Wide Needs
A. Trails, Pedestrian Safety, & Connectivity
The Glacial River Trail Gap: There is an urgent call to establish better, safer
path connectivity directly to the Glacial River Trail.
Active Transportation Safety: Residents want a visible "All Purpose" trail loop
connecting the whole town, accompanied by dedicated bike lanes, painted
crosswalks (specifically citing High St. by Veterans Park), bike racks, and repair
stations.
Path Enhancements: Community members requested distance markers on
existing paths (such as Crossridge Park) to enhance usability.
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B. Inclusivity, ADA Compliance, & Amenities
The Bathroom & Drinking Water Standard: The single most repetitive complaint
is the lack of public restrooms and drinking bubblers across the park system.
True Playground Accessibility: Residents noted that existing playgrounds lack
wheelchair-friendly, handicap-accessible substrate and adaptive play equipment
(specifically citing Lamar Park).
Amenity Upgrades: System-wide requests include removing sand pits (noted as
unhygienic/moldy at Northridge), adding mature shade/seating, replacing broken
concrete benches, and addressing mold/maintenance issues on current play
structures.
C. Programming, Youth, & Sports Strategy
Teen & Non-Sports Demographics: There is a severe deficit in recreational
spaces for teenagers (e.g., teen spaces, basketball courts, outdoor workout
equipment) and a strong demand for more non-sports-related community
programming.
Field Fees & Maintenance Tension: A point of public friction has emerged
regarding athletic programs being charged to use city fields. Parents feel they are
bearing the burden of field upkeep and that youth sports spaces should be
supported as public infrastructure.
7.3. Site-Specific Capital Improvement Recommendations
The following target recommendations are derived directly from the community mapping
activities and open-ended text responses:
Crossridge Park
Urgent Infrastructure: Construct a permanent public restroom structure and
complete the trailing system loop.
New Features: Clarify parking/driveway entries on the undeveloped end. Explore
public interest in a nature-inspired/extreme playground, overflow community
greenspace, or collaborative community fruit orchards/gardens.
South Goodrich Park
Aquatics & Comfort: Modernize the existing splash pad or explore a full city pool
concept. Extensively deep-clean or rebuild the restroom facilities and integrate a
concession/snack option.
Underutilized Spaces: Remediate poor finish grading on the southeast corner to
develop a micro-amphitheater or library story-walk asset.
Lamar Park
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ADA Retrofitting: Strip out non-compliant ground substrate and install
wheelchair-accessible pour-in-place surfacing. Integrate true adaptive play
structures to deliver on its intent as an inclusive playground.
Mud Lake
Water Recreation: Rehabilitate the poorly maintained trail system. Expand water
recreation opportunities by constructing offshore fishing access points and a non-
motorized small boat launch/dock for kayaks and canoes.
Northridge Park
Sanitation & Refresh: Replace playground equipment . Completely remove the
outdated sand pits, replacing them with modern safety surfacing, expanded
bench seating, and shade structures.
Tails and Trails Dog Park
Safety Enclosures: Install internal fencing around the central pond so owners
can control whether their dogs have access to the water. Add extra benches to
the small-dog side of the park.
North Goodrich Park
Activation Strategy: Transform the underutilized western edge into active
community space, such as a basketball court, community garden plots, or an
interactive story-walk. Resolve subpar parking access and allocate funds to
repair the Milton Community House.
FFA Park & Neighborhood Growth Zones
Site Amenities: Transition FFA Park away from being an empty lot; add
dedicated parking, open flat grassy spaces, and basic amenities. Implement
prairie restoration plots accompanied by conservation education signage.
S. Red Hawk Dr.: Plan and acquire land for a new neighborhood park on the
south end of Red Hawk Drive to support residential growth.
8 Mission Goals, Objectives & Policies
8.1 Mission
The mission of the Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (CORP) is to guide
the decisions on park improvement, development, and acquisition, and the
collaboration with other entities on and creation of recreation opportunities for the
42
City of Milton ’s community members. The plan also serves as the City of Milton ’s
CORP for grant purposes.
8.2 Goals
Maintain the City ’s high quality of life through access to a wide range of sustainable
public services and facilities, coordinating with future land development plans.
8.3 Objectives
• Implement and update the City ’s Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan.
• Preserve attractive areas for eventual park or recreational purposes.
• Provide parks within walking distance of all new residential areas.
• Emphasize family-oriented and passive recreation facilities within City parks.
• Coordinate with other area partners on the joint provision of recreational facilities
and services to Milton residents, where feasible and appropriate.
• Encourage expansion of Rock County parks and recreational facilities in the
Milton area.
8.4 Policies
• Follow the recommendations of the City of Milton Comprehensive Outdoor
Recreation Plan when making park acquisition and development decisions.
Update that plan as appropriate to reflect ideas put forth in the City of Milton ’s
Comprehensive Plan.
• Support the design and development of a regional bicycle and pedestrian trail
system within Milton and connecting Milton to Janesville, Jefferson County, and
the Ice Age Trail.
• Use a combination of public park lands; private recreational space; site,
neighborhood, and transportation corridor planning; and regulations to achieve
permanent community separation between Milton and Janesville.
Capital Improvement Plan
Budgeting
Park Improvement Estimated
Cost Priority Funding Strategy
College Green Add additional benches $5,000
3 Donations
College Green Historical/significance
interpretive sign $5,000
3 Park Fund
43
College Green
Repair rock wall and
modify or remove
Columbus Street stairs
$75,000
2 2027 Project Fund
Crossridge Park
Continue
development/maintenance
of natural prairie
$0
1 Park Fund
Crossridge Park Water fountain by south
playground $15,000
2 Park Fund
Lamar Park
Improve blacktop under
bleachers + pathway +
wheelchair seating
$75,000
2 General Fund
Lamar Park Improve Playground
Substrate
General Fund
Liberty Park
Improve parking/traffic
flow; one-way circulation
from N. Clear Lake Ave. to
Vincent St.
$150,000
3 Loan/ General Fund
Mud Lake Construct fishing dock $20,000
3 Grants
North Goodrich Park
Accessibility/general
improvements to Milton
Community House
$500,000
1 Grants/Donations
North Goodrich Park Paths to drinking fountain
and play equipment $20,000
1 Park Fund
Northridge Park Connect park to
development to east
1 Developer Funded
Northridge Park New Playground
Equipment $150,000
Park Fund
44
South Goodrich Park Pathways to bleachers +
wheelchair seating $50,000
2 Park Fund
South Goodrich Park Repaint/refresh splash
pad $25,000
1 Park Fund
Tails and Trails Dog
Park
Additional/improved picnic
benches $10,000
3 Donations
McKenna Park Ensure Construction is
Complete
2 Donations
Crossridge –Schilberg
Connection
Construct multiuse path
between Crossridge Park
and Schilberg Park
$200,000
1
Park Fund/General
Fund/TID 10
9. IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING
Adoption of the Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (CORP) is not the conclusion
of the planning process. The CORP is intended to serve as an ongoing management
and capital planning tool for the City of Milton. Its recommendations should be
incorporated into the City's annual budgeting, capital improvement planning, grant
development, park maintenance, and community engagement activities.
The implementation and monitoring process will ensure that the recommendations
contained within the CORP remain relevant as community needs, facility conditions,
funding opportunities, development patterns, and recreational preferences change.
The City should use the CORP to establish priorities, evaluate potential projects,
coordinate investments, and measure progress toward the City's long-term park and
recreation goals.
9.1 Annual Review
The City should conduct an annual review of the CORP to evaluate progress and
determine whether priorities remain appropriate.
The annual review should include:
A review of projects completed during the previous year.
45
An update of projects currently underway.
Identification of projects that have been delayed or deferred.
Review of park and recreation facility conditions .
Review of changes in community needs and recreational trends.
Identification of new recreational opportunities or deficiencies.
Review of available local, state, federal, and private funding opportunities.
Evaluation of recommendations that may no longer be appropriate.
Identification of new priorities that should be considered for inclusion in the City's
work program or capital improvement plan.
The annual review does not require a formal amendment to the CORP for routine
changes in project timing or implementation status. Instead, the review should be used
to maintain an up-to-date implementation list and identify projects that should receive
additional consideration.
Significant changes to the goals, policies, recommendations, or overall direction of the
CORP should follow the amendment process described in this section.
9.2 Capital Improvement Integration
The CORP should be integrated with the City's capital improvement planning process.
Recommended park and recreation projects should be evaluated alongside other
municipal capital needs and considered for inclusion in the City's Capital Improvement
Plan (CIP), capital budget, or other long-term financial planning documents.
Each major CORP project should be evaluated based on:
Community need .
Existing facility condition.
Public safety.
Accessibility.
Number of residents served.
Geographic distribution and equity of recreational opportunities.
Relationship to other City projects.
Estimated capital cost.
Long-term operating and maintenance costs.
46
Availability of outside funding.
Potential for partnerships.
Readiness to proceed.
The CORP should not be interpreted as a commitment to construct every identified
project. Rather, it provides a framework for evaluating and prioritizing future
investments.
Projects identified as high priorities in the CORP should receive consideration during
each annual capital planning cycle. When projects are not included in the adopted
capital budget, the reason for deferral should be documented when practical, and the
project should remain on the City's implementation list for future consideration.
9.3 Budget Development
The annual municipal budget process provides the primary mechanism for implementing
the operational recommendations of the CORP.
During development of the annual budget, City staff should review the CORP and
identify recommended expenditures related to:
Park maintenance.
Facility rehabilitation.
Playground replacement.
Trail and sidewalk improvements.
Accessibility improvements.
Park amenities.
Natural-area management.
Athletic facilities.
Engineering and design.
Planning and feasibility studies.
Land acquisition or easements.
Major capital improvements.
The City should distinguish between routine maintenance, minor improvements, and
major capital projects so that resources can be allocated appropriately.
47
When preparing budget recommendations, staff should identify projects that can
reasonably be completed with available resources and distinguish those projects from
longer-term opportunities requiring additional funding, grants, partnerships, or future
capital planning.
9.4 Grant Applications
The CORP should be used as a supporting document when the City applies for grants
or other outside funding for park and recreation projects.
Maintaining an adopted and current CORP can help demonstrate that proposed projects
are based on an identified community need and are part of a broader long-term
recreational strategy.
City staff should periodically review available funding programs and identify
opportunities that align with CORP priorities. Potential funding sources may include
state and federal programs, regional programs, private foundations, conservation
organizations, recreational organizations, and other public or private partners.
Grant applications should, when appropriate, identify the applicable CORP goal,
recommendation, or identified community need that supports the proposed project.
Grant opportunities should not independently determine the City's recreational priorities.
Rather, available grants should be evaluated based on how well they advance projects
already identified as community priorities.
9.5 Park Condition Updates
The City should maintain an ongoing inventory of park and recreation facilities and
periodically update the condition of major assets.
Condition information should be used to identify maintenance, rehabilitation,
replacement, and capital improvement needs before facilities reach the point of failure or
require emergency replacement.
The City should monitor, as appropriate:
Playgrounds and playground surfacing.
Athletic fields.
Basketball and other sport courts.
Trails and sidewalks.
Parking areas.
Shelters and buildings.
48
Restrooms.
Benches and picnic tables.
Lighting.
Signage.
Drainage and stormwater features.
Landscaping and natural areas.
Accessibility features.
Other major park infrastructure.
A simple condition- rating system may be used to classify facilities as:
Good – Facility is in good condition and requires routine maintenance.
Fair – Facility remains functional but has visible deterioration or should be scheduled for
rehabilitation or replacement.
Poor – Facility has significant deficiencies and should be considered for near-term
rehabilitation or replacement.
Critical – Facility presents significant safety, functional, or structural concerns and
requires immediate attention.
Condition assessments should be updated periodically and used to inform annual
budgeting and capital improvement decisions.
9.6 Community Engagement
Community engagement should continue after adoption of the CORP. Residents, park
users, neighborhood organizations, youth organizations, athletic organizations, schools,
civic groups, and other community partners can provide valuable information regarding
changing recreational needs and facility conditions.
The City should provide reasonable opportunities for public input through existing
municipal communication and engagement methods, which may include:
Public meetings.
Common Council meetings.
Park and recreation-related meetings.
Surveys.
Online engagement.
49
Public comment.
Community events.
Direct communication with recreation organizations and community partners.
Community input should be considered when evaluating major park improvements, new
recreational facilities, significant changes in park use, and future CORP amendments.
Public engagement should be proportionate to the significance of the proposed project.
Routine maintenance and previously approved projects generally do not require the
same level of public engagement as major new facilities or significant changes in park
use.
9.7 Five-Year Update
The CORP should undergo a comprehensive review approximately every five years.
The five-year review should evaluate whether the plan continues to accurately reflect:
Community demographics.
Population and development trends.
Recreational needs.
Park and facility conditions.
Trail and pedestrian connections.
Accessibility needs.
Recreational trends.
Available funding opportunities.
Completed projects.
Outstanding recommendations.
New or emerging community priorities.
The five-year review should include an updated implementation schedule and
recommendations for modifying, removing, or adding projects as appropriate.
The City may determine that a full replacement of the CORP is unnecessary if the plan
continues to adequately address community needs. In such cases, the City may update
the existing document through an amendment or formal plan update consistent with
applicable requirements.
9.8 CORP Amendment Process
50
The CORP should remain flexible enough to respond to significant changes in
community conditions, funding opportunities, development, or recreational needs.
Minor administrative changes, corrections, project status updates, or adjustments to
implementation timing may be incorporated through the City's annual review process
without requiring a formal amendment, provided that the changes do not substantially
alter the adopted goals or policies of the plan.
A formal amendment should be considered when a proposed change would:
Add a significant new park or recreation project.
Remove or substantially modify an adopted priority.
Change a major park use.
Establish a new long-term recreational policy.
Respond to substantial changes in community conditions.
Address a significant new recreational need.
Incorporate a major land acquisition or park development opportunity.
Formal amendments should be reviewed by City staff and presented to the appropriate
City body for consideration. Public input should be provided when appropriate,
particularly when an amendment would substantially affect park use or represent a
significant change in the City's recreational priorities.
Any formally adopted amendment should be incorporated into the official CORP and
reflected in the City's implementation schedule.
9.9 Implementation Tracking
To ensure accountability, the City should maintain an implementation table identifying
major CORP recommendations and their current status .
The implementation table should, at a minimum, identify:
Project
Recommendation
Priority
Responsible
Department/
Party
Estimated
Cost
Funding
Source
Targ
et
Year
Status
Project
High/Med
ium/Low
City/Partner $
Funding
source
Year
Not Started/In
Progress/Co
mplete
51
Project
High/Med
ium/Low
City/Partner $
Funding
source
Year
Not Started/In
Progress/Co
mplete
The implementation table should be reviewed annually and updated as projects are
completed, deferred, reprioritized, funded, or modified.
This tracking system will allow the City Council, staff, and community to clearly identify
what has been accomplished and what remains to be addressed.
9.10 Implementation Priorities
Implementation of the CORP should generally follow the following sequence:
1. Address health, safety, and accessibility needs.
Immediate attention should be given to facilities or conditions presenting safety
concerns, significant deterioration, or barriers to accessibility.
2. Maintain existing facilities.
The City should prioritize maintenance and rehabilitation of existing parks and facilities
to protect previous public investments.
3. Complete high-priority connections and improvements.
Projects that improve connectivity between neighborhoods, parks, schools, trails, and
other community destinations should receive consideration based on available
resources and demonstrated need.
4. Address identified recreational gaps.
Where existing facilities do not meet documented community needs, the City should
consider improvements or new facilities.
5. Pursue strategic expansion.
New parkland, facilities, and major recreational investments should be considered when
supported by demonstrated need, available funding, appropriate locations, and long-
term operational feasibility.
Conclusion
The implementation and monitoring framework is intended to keep the Comprehensive
Outdoor Recreation Plan active beyond its initial adoption. The CORP should be treated
as a living document that informs annual decisions rather than a plan that is completed
and set aside.
52
Through annual review, capital improvement planning, budget development, grant
applications, facility condition assessments, continued community engagement, and a
comprehensive five-year update, the City can ensure that recreational investments
remain aligned with community needs and available resources.
The amendment process provides the flexibility necessary to respond to significant
changes while maintaining the integrity of the adopted plan. Together, these processes
provide a practical framework for turning the CORP's recommendations into measurable
improvements to Milton's parks, trails, facilities, and recreational opportunities.
10. CONCLUSION
The City of Milton has a strong foundation of parks, recreational facilities, trails, natural
areas, and community partnerships. These resources contribute significantly to the
City's quality of life and provide residents with opportunities for recreation, physical
activity, social interaction, and connection to the natural environment.
The next five years should focus on strengthening this existing foundation rather than
simply expanding the number of recreational facilities. Milton's greatest opportunities are
to improve the connectivity, quality, accessibility, programming, and strategic investment
of its park and recreation system.
A connected system of sidewalks, trails, parks, and recreational facilities will allow
residents to move more easily throughout the community and access recreational
opportunities without relying exclusively on automobiles. Improving connections
between neighborhoods, parks, schools, downtown, and other community destinations
should remain an important long-term objective.
Maintaining and improving existing facilities should also remain a priority. Well-
maintained playgrounds, athletic facilities, trails, shelters, courts, natural areas, and
other park amenities protect the City's existing investments and ensure that facilities
remain safe, attractive, functional, and welcoming.
Accessibility and inclusion should be incorporated into future park improvements so that
residents of all ages and abilities can participate in community recreation. Where
facilities are replaced or renovated, the City should seek opportunities to improve
accessibility rather than simply replacing existing features with similar facilities.
The City should also continue to evaluate recreational programming and partnerships.
Parks are most valuable when residents have meaningful opportunities to use them.
Working with schools, youth organizations, athletic groups, community organizations,
and other partners can expand recreational opportunities while making effective use of
existing facilities and resources.
53
Finally, Milton should pursue strategic investment in its park and recreation system.
Available resources should be directed toward projects that address documented needs,
improve existing assets, increase accessibility, strengthen community connections, and
provide meaningful benefits to residents. New facilities and parkland should be
considered when supported by demonstrated demand, appropriate locations, long-term
financial feasibility, and the City's broader recreational goals.
Major Priorities
Over the planning period, the City should emphasize the following priorities:
1. Connectivity – Improve pedestrian and bicycle connections between
neighborhoods, parks, schools, downtown, trails, and other community
destinations.
2. Quality – Maintain, rehabilitate, and modernize existing parks and recreational
facilities.
3. Accessibility – Improve access to parks, trails, playgrounds, facilities, and
recreational opportunities for residents of all abilities.
4. Programming – Support diverse recreational opportunities for children, families,
adults, older adults, and other community groups through City programs and
community partnerships.
5. Natural Resources – Protect and enhance natural areas, prairie, open space, and
other environmental resources while providing appropriate opportunities for
passive recreation and education.
6. Strategic Investment – Prioritize limited municipal resources toward projects that
provide the greatest community benefit and support the City's long-term goals.
7. Implementation and Monitoring – Use the CORP as an active management tool
through annual review, capital improvement planning, budgeting, grant
development, facility condition assessments, community engagement, and
periodic plan updates.
The Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan provides a framework for achieving these
priorities. Its success will ultimately be measured not by the number of
recommendations contained within the document, but by the City's ability to make
thoughtful investments, maintain its existing assets, improve connections, respond to
changing community needs, and provide high-quality recreational opportunities for
Milton residents.
54
With continued planning, responsible investment, and community involvement, Milton
can build upon its existing strengths and create a park and recreation system that
serves current residents while positioning the community for the next generation.
Wednesday, July 29, 2026
Mr. Mark Langer, Building Public Works Director
City of Milton
Recreation Department
116 Parkview Drive
Milton, WI 53563
Page 1 of 5Milton Community House - Architectural RenderingsRe:
The City of Milton has requested architectural renderings to help launch a fundraising campaign for the Milton
Community House. In addition to the proposed floor plan that was presented at the end of the schematic design
initiative along with the preliminary cost estimate, A-Y would consult with our interiors team to put together some
materials and colors that would be appropriate for a timeless, historic, but updated interior. The exterior would be a
one for one replacement with some modern, maintenance free materials, but with a refreshed color scheme that would
be historically appropriate.
Angus-Young proposes to build a SketchUp model of the project and provide a round of initial SketchUp-produced
image exports to ensure that colors and materials are appropriate. A-Y would present these preliminary images to the
Committee with the opportunity to provide feedback and would allow for one set of revisions. Once final materials
and colors are selected, we would render 3 images of the exterior and 2 images of the interior (specifically meeting
room and kitchen area) which would be Tier 4 raytraced renderings including detailed lighting and props to produce a
more polished, professional look. This intitial package includes interior design consultation service, 3D modeling,
initial image exports, and 5 renderings would total $6,180. This initial package would not include A-Y representation
at City of Milton Parks & Recreation Commission meetings. If A-Y representation is desired it can be added for
$200/meeting. Any physical presentation or marketing materials produced by A-Y would be beyond the scope of this
proposal, but could be added on a time and materials basis. All reimbursable expenses such as printing to be billed in
addition to the fixed fee.
Project Scope:
Thank you for having Angus-Young Associates, Inc. provide you with this proposal for architectural and/or engineering
services for your project. We hope that this proposal format provides you with the needed information to select our firm.
Please let us know if you have any questions or require changes.
Professional Disciplines Included:
This engagement letter is for professional services for the project scope described in the 'project scope' description. The
professional services to be provided are those services checked under 'professional disciplines included' and 'services
included'. Should the project scope or services being provided change during the development of the project, an
adjustment in the fees for the revised scope will be made to the fee described below. The risk allocation amount shall be
the limit of our professional liability as defined in the 'Risk Allocation' section of this engagement letter.
Dear Mark:
Terms:
Contract form:
Angus-Young Associates Risk Allocation: $50,000.00
Type of Billing:
Accepted Proposal
Fixed fee plus reimbursable expenses
$6,180.00Professional Services Fee:
If additional services are required beyond the scope stated above, we can provide an additional proposal at that time
or work on a time and material basis. Anything not specifically mentioned is not included in this proposal.
555 South River Street, Janesville, WI 53548-4783 - Phone (608) 756-2326 - www.angusyoung.com
Page 2 of 5Milton Community House - Architectural RenderingsRe:
Hourly Rates:
Professional Disciplines Included:
Services Included:
Architecture
Civil
Electrical
Furniture & Equipment
Interior Design
Marketing
Landscape Design
Mechanical
Process
Plumbing
Structural
Site Design
Condition Assessment Study
Pre-Design/Feasibility
Program / Master Planning
Schematic Design
Design Development
Construction Documents
Quality Assurance
Plan Review
Bidding / Negotiation
Construction, Compliance Certificate
Construction, Limited Services
Construction, Full Services
Construction, Punch List
As-Built Drawings
Commissioning
Post Construction Services
Additional Services
$125.00 Designer II
$240.00 Principal/Director/Partner IV
$215.00 Principal/Director/Partner III
$185.00 Principal/Director/Partner II
$155.00 Principal/Director/Partner I
$240.00 Professional V
$210.00 Professional IV
$180.00 Professional III
$150.00 Professional II
$125.00 Professional I
$200.00 Designer V
$265.00 Principal/Director/Partner V
$155.00 Designer III
$155.00 Technician V
$145.00 Technician IV
$130.00 Technician III
$120.00 Technician II
$110.00 Technician I
$120.00 Administrative V
$105.00 Administrative IV
$85.00 Administrative III
$65.00 Administrative II
$180.00 Designer IV
555 South River Street, Janesville, WI 53548-4783 - Phone (608) 756-2326 - www.angusyoung.com
$155.00 Designer III
$50.00 Administrative I
$115.00 Designer I
We look forward to working with you on this project.
Sincerely,
Accepted By:
Printed Name
Signature
Date
Bradley Werginz, Principal, Architect, AIA
Work will begin on the project after a signed copy of this engagement letter is received. If for any reason, work has begun
without a signed engagement letter, contract or purchase order, we may terminate work on the project without notice.
Receipt of a purchase order for this project will constitute agreement with the terms of this engagement letter. This
agreement and the contract form defined under "Terms" above shall be the basis of our agreement. The contract form
will be provided at your request.
Authorized By:
Britten Langfoss, Designer
Printed Name Date
Page 3 of 5Milton Community House - Architectural RenderingsRe:
555 South River Street, Janesville, WI 53548-4783 - Phone (608) 756-2326 - www.angusyoung.com
Page 4 of 5Milton Community House - Architectural RenderingsRe:
555 South River Street, Janesville, WI 53548-4783 - Phone (608) 756-2326 - www.angusyoung.com
Page 5 of 5Milton Community House - Architectural RenderingsRe:
555 South River Street, Janesville, WI 53548-4783 - Phone (608) 756-2326 - www.angusyoung.com
ARCHITECTURAL
RENDERINGRENDERING
SERVICES
TIER 6: 360-DEGREE RENDERINGS
Immersive 360-degree renders,
giving you the ability to explore
the design from any angle via
an in-browser visualizer, or a
virtual reality headset. Perfect
for virtual walkthroughs or
showcasing a project in full
detail. Stand in your project
during the design process to get a feel for the real-world
scale and impact.
TIER 7: ANIMATED VIDEO RENDERINGS
Dynamic animated video
renderings provide a cinematic
experience that allows you
to virtually experience your
project in motion from multiple
perspectives. Solar studies,
weather effects, and vehicle/
pedestrian traffic flows can
all be featured in these high-quality animations. Utilize
them in a presentation, embed them on your website, or
incorporate them in your social media channels.
Detailed SketchUp models with high-quality screenshot
exports provide more intricate design details and a
clearer visualization of your project’s form. These
models are suitable for more detailed design
development and presentations.
TIER 2: DETAILED SKETCHUP MODELS
White box massing models offer a clear, basic
representation of a project’s scale and proportions,
aiding in conceptual discussions and early-stage
decisions. They explore key factors like site layout,
building setbacks, project goals, space requirements,
and square footage, helping assess the building’s
relationship with its surroundings and ensure the
design meets functional needs.
TIER 1: WHITE BOX MASSING MODELS
Basic rendered visualization, with minimal lighting
and detail. Perfect for early-stage visualizations
where the main focus is on nailing down colors and
materials. Great for deciding on materials and design
details in the early stage, while still being able to make
adjustments as needed.
TIER 3: RAYTRACED RENDERINGS
Detailed renderings that include realistic lighting,
materials, and props to give your project a more polished,
professional look. These renderings are helpful for
marketing, sharing on websites or social media pages, as
well as providing imagery to local governments to help
with the approval process.
TIER 4: RAYTRACED RENDERINGS -
DETAILED LIGHTING AND PROPS
This allows for more customization, such as nighttime
renders or seasonal weather settings, which provide
dynamic, unique visuals tailored to your project. Imbue
the emotion of a cold rainy night with warm inviting lights
drawing a person inside. Imagine a realistic, season-
specific view of a winter market, showing four-season
activation of an exterior space.
TIER 5: RAYTRACED RENDERINGS: CUSTOM/
NIGHT/SEASONAL WEATHER
Architectural visualizations help clients, stake-
holders, and design teams clearly understand
the design, making complex ideas easier to
grasp and discuss.
Better Understanding
Visuals allow clients to identify potential design
issues early, assess space functionality, and
make adjustments before construction, saving
both time and money.
Informed Decisions
High-quality renderings are powerful marketing
tools, helping clients sell properties or secure
investments by giving a realistic preview of the
finished project.
Effective Marketing
Visualizations enable clients to give more
precise feedback on design details like
materials, lighting, and space, ensuring the
final result aligns with their vision.
Accurate Feedback
By reviewing a design in a visual format,
clients can spot flaws early, reducing the risk
of change orders and unexpected costs during
the construction process.
Risk and Cost Reduction
We bring your architectural vision to life with high-
quality renderings, ranging from simple white-box
models to detailed animations. Whether you need a
quick client visual or an immersive video walkthrough,
we offer solutions to fit your scope and budget.
OUR OUR ARCHITECTURALARCHITECTURAL
RENDERINGRENDERING SERVICES SERVICES
LET ANGUS-YOUNG BRING BRING
YOUR VISION TO LIFEYOUR VISION TO LIFE
Architectural renderings serve a multitude of purposes for
clients, stakeholders, and the design team by providing a
visual representation of a project’s design. They enhance
communication, making it easier to understand complex
concepts and ideas.
Renderings help clients visualize the final outcome,
allowing for:
• More informed decision-making
• Effective Feedback
• Adjustments before construction begins
For stakeholders and investors, renderings offer a
compelling tool for marketing and securing funding, while
the design team can use them to refine details, assess
spatial relationships, and align the vision with client
needs.
JANESVILLE | MADISON | ROCKFORD
WWW.ANGUSYOUNG.COM
608.756.2326
STAY IN TOUCHSTAY IN TOUCH
Playground
Safety
Inspection
Report
-
Milton
(7-30-2026)
Page 13
Outdoor
Playground
Id
Location
Observation/Recommendation
22861
Northridge
Park
Protective
Surface
Material
A
playground
should
never
be
installed
without
protective
surfacing
of
some
type.
Concrete,
asphalt,
or
other
hard
surfaces
should
never
be
directly
under
playground
equipment.
Grass
and
dirt
are
not
considered
protective
surfacing
because
wear
and
environmental
factors
can
reduce
their
shock
absorbing
effectiveness.
CPSC
2.4.2
Recommendation
The
proper
protective
surfacing
material
must
be
installed
within
the
proper
use
zone
for
each
piece
of
playground
equipment.
Target Completion Date:
Responsible Party:
Date Corrected:
The inspector does not represent that all possible or significant hazards on your premises or in your operations have been identified in this inspection. This inspection was performed for your information only, and by performing this inspection, the
inspector does not undertake to bring you into compliance with any local, state or federal laws, common law duties or contractual obligations. Moreover, by performing this inspection the inspector has not and does not assume or discharge any
obligations you may have to identify, manage, control or correct any hazard on your premises or in your operations.
Playground
Safety
Inspection
Report
-
Milton
(7-30-2026)
Page 14
Outdoor
Playground
Id
Location
Observation/Recommendation
22862
Northridge
Park
Entrapment
Head
and
Neck
Entrapment
-
Public
playground
equipment
shall
be
designed
and
constructed
or
assembled
so
that
any
accessible
opening
shall
meet
the
following
performance
requirements
to
reduce
the
risk
of
accidental
head
or
neck
entrapment
by
either
a
head-first
or
feet-first
entry
into
the
opening.
ASTM-F1487
6.1
Recommendation
This
piece
of
equipment
presents
a
head
entrapment
hazard.
The
equipment
should
be
modified
to
eliminate
the
head
entrapment
hazard.
Target Completion Date:
Responsible Party:
Date Corrected:
The inspector does not represent that all possible or significant hazards on your premises or in your operations have been identified in this inspection. This inspection was performed for your information only, and by performing this inspection, the
inspector does not undertake to bring you into compliance with any local, state or federal laws, common law duties or contractual obligations. Moreover, by performing this inspection the inspector has not and does not assume or discharge any
obligations you may have to identify, manage, control or correct any hazard on your premises or in your operations.
Playground
Safety
Inspection
Report
-
Milton
(7-30-2026)
Page 15
Outdoor
Playground
Id
Location
Observation/Recommendation
22863
Northridge
Park
Maintenance
Inspections
alone
do
not
constitute
a
comprehensive
maintenance
program.
Any
problems
found
during
the
inspection
should
be
noted
and
fixed
as
soon
as
possible.
All
repairs
and
replacements
of
equipment
parts
should
be
completed
following
the
manufacturer's
instructions.
CPSC
4.2
Recommendation
All
hazards
found
during
inspections
should
be
eliminated
as
soon
as
possible.
Repairs
and
replacements
should
also
be
documented.
Target Completion Date:
Responsible Party:
Date Corrected:
The inspector does not represent that all possible or significant hazards on your premises or in your operations have been identified in this inspection. This inspection was performed for your information only, and by performing this inspection, the
inspector does not undertake to bring you into compliance with any local, state or federal laws, common law duties or contractual obligations. Moreover, by performing this inspection the inspector has not and does not assume or discharge any
obligations you may have to identify, manage, control or correct any hazard on your premises or in your operations.
Playground
Safety
Inspection
Report
-
Milton
(7-30-2026)
Page 16
Outdoor
Playground
Id
Location
Observation/Recommendation
22864
Northridge
Park
Maintenance
Inspections
alone
do
not
constitute
a
comprehensive
maintenance
program.
Any
problems
found
during
the
inspection
should
be
noted
and
fixed
as
soon
as
possible.
All
repairs
and
replacements
of
equipment
parts
should
be
completed
following
the
manufacturer's
instructions.
CPSC
4.2
Recommendation
All
hazards
found
during
inspections
should
be
eliminated
as
soon
as
possible.
Repairs
and
replacements
should
also
be
documented.
Target Completion Date:
Responsible Party:
Date Corrected:
The inspector does not represent that all possible or significant hazards on your premises or in your operations have been identified in this inspection. This inspection was performed for your information only, and by performing this inspection, the
inspector does not undertake to bring you into compliance with any local, state or federal laws, common law duties or contractual obligations. Moreover, by performing this inspection the inspector has not and does not assume or discharge any
obligations you may have to identify, manage, control or correct any hazard on your premises or in your operations.
CITY OF MILTON
PARK USE APPLICATION
1. Legal Name Phone
First MI Last
2. Full Address
Street address City State ZIP
3. Driver's License No. (required)
4. Facility Requested Rental Date
5. Planned Activity # of Attendees
6. Requested Reserved Time Preference (please circle) Mail or Email
7. Email: ______________________________________________________________________________
A park pavilion is not officially reserved until the application is complete and the park rental fee and security
deposit are paid. If application date is less than 10 days from rental date, cash or credit card are the only
payment methods accepted for rental and security deposit fees.
Should you find it necessary to cancel your reservation, you must cancel at least 30 days prior to the event for a
full refund of rental fees and security deposit.
Resident Non-City Resident
Community House $120.00 $220.00
Lamar and South Goodrich Parks $ 75.00 $125.00
Security Deposit $100.00 $100.00
Veterans Park – Veteran $ 80.00 $160.00
Veterans Park – Non-Veteran $100.00 $200.00
Security Deposit Veterans Park $125.00 $125.00
Please read and initial below (If filled out by phone or online, renter will sign in person keys are picked up.)
(Renter’s initials) Rental of the pavilion or facility does not entitle the renter to exclusive use of the
adjacent baseball fields, playgrounds, Veterans Memorial, or Splash Pad. For further information pertaining
to the use of the baseball fields please contact Milton Recreation Department at (608) 868-9393.
(Renter’s initials) Park keys must be picked up during regular office hours at City Hall. City Hall hours
are Monday-Thursday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Friday 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Failure to pick up the keys
during regular office hours will result in forfeiture of the security deposit . If keys are not returned, a $25 fee
will be deducted from the security deposit.
(Renter’s initials) City of Milton Code of Ordinances Sec. 1- 16 (a). No license, registration or permit
shall be issued or renewed by the city until all delinquent City of Milton taxes, assessments and forfeitures
from city ordinance violations and all due bills of any and all City of Milton utilities have been paid in full.
(Renter’s initials) I understand that I am responsible for any damages to the city facility and pr operty
during my event. If damage occurs, my security deposit will be forfeited and any additional damage charges
may be collected through the Tax Refund Intercept Program (TRIP).
Signature Date
My signature acknowledges that I have received, read, and agree to all park rules and regulations.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For Office Use Only
Park Fee Paid: $75.00 $80.00 $100.00 $120.00 $125.00 $160.00 $200.00 $220.00
Security Deposit Paid: $100.00 $125.00
Rec. No. __________ Cash/Check/Credit Card Check No. _________
Name on Check/Credit Card __________________________________Transaction Date ________________
Employee Initials ____________
Exempt from Fees Y N Group __________________________
Outstanding Fees Owed to the City Checked: ________________Initials: __________
Outstanding Citations/Court Fees Owed to the City Checked: ________________Initials: __________
City Clerk Approval: ______________________________________________ Date: ____________
Security Deposit Refund If Full Refund – Date of Cancellation: ____________
Reason for Cancellation:
Issued (Circle): Check or Credit Card
GL acct: 100-26925
Description: Security Deposit Refund – PARK - DATE
Amount: ___________
Approval: __________
Updated
01/06/2025
Source: City of Milton website. First collected Oct 15, 2026.