Badger Trail Nears Completion | Public Spaces

Construction of the final segment of the Badger Trail is almost done and the trail should open this month to the public, according to Rep. Spencer Black. 

"It is estimated that a quarter of a million people a year will use the new trail," Rep. Black said.  "It is a key missing link to our bike trail system.  The six-mile extension will close a gap in the Badger Trail and will tie together the Madison and state bike trail systems.  It will allow commuters in rapidly growing Fitchburg and areas to the south to access the bike trail and bike route system in Madison and Fitchburg."

Black originally authored a provision providing for the trail in the 1997 state budget bill. 

Paving, grading and bridge construction are on schedule, and the trail between the Southwest Trail and Capital City Trail could open as soon as Sept. 18. 

"This trail has been a long time in coming. I’m very glad that the trail will finally be completed before I leave office," Black said. "The completion of the Badger Trail is good news for both bike commuters and recreational cyclists."

"The trail segment will also be important for traffic safety," Rep. Black said. "Currently, Seminole Highway sees significant conflicts between bicyclists and motor vehicle traffic."