Village of Plover, Wisconsin

entertainment events,” Mahoney says. “That was the first phase of the development. Now, we’re moving into the second phase with construction starting in 2021. The project involves several items at a total cost of a little over $4 million. And again, we’re using partnerships: the Village will pay for the public infrastructure portion of the project, some of the pathways, some of the sewer and water extensions, and the parking. We have applied for Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources funding, and we’ll fundraise with the public to offset the remaining costs. The project includes a pedestrian path that will encircle all of Lake Pacawa and make connections to the Village Park at Plover project, as well as to the Green Circle Trail, which is a 30-mile pedestrian and bicycle trail that encompasses the Stevens Point/Plover urban area.” Another construction project planned for the Park is an accessible splash pad and playground area. “We wanted something that was a little bit different but, more importantly, something that would be available to all the members of our community,” Mahoney states. “So, not only will this facility be available to young people and their families to enjoy, but to those who have other life challenges. These facilities will be geared towards them, as well. We know it’s going to be a regional draw because of its uniqueness. In addition, there will be three fishing piers constructed; one of them will include a kayak launch area that is also accessible. Finally, we will be building a shelter with restrooms for the Lions Club, as part of the design. The shelter will be available for use by the public, as well.” Regarding the Village’s attention to green initiatives, Mahoney explains, “Groundwater quality and groundwater quantity are very important issues here. In central Wisconsin, drinking water comes primarily from groundwater aquifers. There’s a very plentiful supply of water, however, the agriculture industry and municipalities use a lot of that water, so there’s been concern with respect to how those V I LLAGE OF PLOVER , WI SCONS IN