On the agenda: Twin Lakes meeting — Data Center (Jul 14)
Past ⚠ Agenda Watch Twin Lakes, Wisconsin · Tuesday, July 14, 2026 — 2 months ago
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VILLAGE OF TWIN LAKES
PARK BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
DATE: Tuesday, July 14, 2026
TIME: 4:30 p.m.
LOCATION: Village Hall Board Room, 105 E. Main Street, Twin Lakes, Wisconsin 53181
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call – Cindy Amore, Lisa Wallerich, Jordan Cates, Ashley Fauth, Ken Perl, Christine Martin
Also present: Colleen Hoyt, Village Deputy Clerk; Jeff Sanders, Community Planning and Consulting
3. Pledge of Allegiance
4. Public Comment
Members of the public are invited to speak on agenda items or other matters within thejurisdiction
of the Park Board. Individual comments may be limited to three (3) minutes at thediscretion of the
Chair.
No action will be taken on public comment items unless properly noticed on the agenda.
5. Presentation – First Draft Outdoor Recreation Plan
6. Discussion and Possible Direction Reguarding First Outdoor Recreation Plan
7. Future Agenda Items (Identification Only – No Discussion or Action)
8. Adjournment
NOTICE OF POSSIBLE QUORUM
A majority of members of the Village Board, Lake Protection and Rehabilitation District Board of Commissioners, or other governmental bodies may
be present at this meeting for the purpose of gathering information. No action will be taken by any governmental body other than the body
specifically noticed on this agenda. If necessary, the Board may convene in closed session pursuant to Wisconsin Statute 19.85(1)(a) and/or Wisconsin
Statute 19.85(1)(g), Wis. Stats., as applicable to items on this agenda.
Kenosha County Veterans Memorial Park
Village of Twin Lakes
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The information shown on this map is for planning purposes only.
Any other use of this information displayed is the responsibility
of the user and to be used at their own risk. There is no guarantee
of accuracy in the data of this map.
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Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Map
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Kenosha County, Wisconsin
Musial Beach Park
New Munster Wildlife Area
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Village of Twin Lakes
Recreation Plan 2027-31
July 2026
July 2026
Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Community Planning & Consulting, LLC
Appleton, Wisconsin
www.communityplanningandconsulting.com
Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Acknowledgements
Village Board
Howard Skinner, President
Barbara Andres, Trustee
Jim Baxa, Trustee
Kevin Fitzgerald, Trustee
Aaron Karow, Trustee
Bill Kaskin, Trustee
Ken Perl, Trustee
Board of Park Commissioners
Cindy Amore
Jordan Cates
Ashley Fauth
Christine Martin
Ken Perl
Lisa Wallerich
Village Staff
Laura Jager, Administrator-Treasurer
Sabrina Waswo, Clerk
Colleen Hoyt, Deputy Clerk
Greg Droessler, Engineer
Bonnie Schaeffer, Zoning Administrator
Justin Border, Building Inspector
Al Stolp, Public Works Foreman
Special acknowledgement to Ruekert & Mielke, Inc. whose Village of Twin Lakes 2005
Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan served as a foundation for the 2018 draft Comprehensive
Outdoor Recreation Plan and this document.
All images presented herein are courtesy of the Village of Twin Lakes unless otherwise attributed.
Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Table of Contents
Introduction
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Planning Context
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Community Engagement
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Goals & Objectives
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Community Profile
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Inventory of Parks & Recreation Facilities
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Wisconsin Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan
(SCORP) 2019-2023
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Outdoor Recreation Standards
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Recommendations
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Funding
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Appendix
..................................................................................................................................... 65
List of Tables
Table 1: ........................................................................................................................ 15
Table 2: ........................................................................................................................ 15
Table 3: ........................................................................................................................ 15
Table 4: ........................................................................................................................ 18
Table 5: ........................................................................................................................ 27
Table 6: ........................................................................................................................ 44
Table 7: ........................................................................................................................ 46
Table 8: ........................................................................................................................ 50
Table 9: ........................................................................................................................ 51
Table 10: ...................................................................................................................... 52
Table 11: ...................................................................................................................... 65
List of Figures
Figure 1: ....................................................................................................................... 26
Figure 2: ....................................................................................................................... 27
List of Maps
Map 1: ........................................................................................................................... 7
Map 2: ......................................................................................................................... 57
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adoption resolution to be inserted here
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Introduction
Courtesy Visit Kenosha
Village of Twin Lakes
The Village of Twin Lakes is roughly 10 square miles in size (8.5 land, 1.5 water) with a 2020
population of 6,309. It is located in Kenosha County in southeast Wisconsin approximately 50 miles
southwest of Milwaukee and 70 miles northwest of Chicago. The community’s most prominent
landscape features are Lake Elizabeth and Lake Mary. It is from these lakes the Village derives its
name. Hosting nearly 1,000 acres of water, a number of public beaches, numerous parks, and a
quaint downtown, Twin Lakes is a popular destination for outdoor recreation.
Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan
A comprehensive outdoor recreation plan (CORP) describes current parks, recreation, and open
space assets, and presents a strategy for meeting future needs. Its purpose is to guide land
acquisition, development, and maintenance activities by identifying the general location, character, and
extent of existing and desired parks, trails, pedestrian and bicycle amenities, playgrounds, and special
recreation areas. Wisconsin Chapter NR 50, administered by the Wisconsin Department of Natural
Resources (WDNR) establishes procedures for the development of a CORP. The adoption of a CORP
is a prerequisite for participation in the state’s outdoor recreation grant programs and a required
component of federal applications for parks and recreation grant funding. Once adopted, a CORP
must be updated every five years.
General Overview
Parks, recreation facilities, and open spaces improve our physical and psychological health,
strengthen our neighborhoods, and make our communities more attractive places to live. Studies have
shown a link between the built environment and the physical, social, and economic health of a
community. Planning for parks and recreation facilities can promote active lifestyles, build healthy
communities, and lower health care and transportation costs.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Access to outdoor recreation provides a variety of benefits and has proven to be an important
component of connected, vibrant communities, including:1
Ø Mental. Outdoor recreation has psychological benefits, including the prevention or reduction of
stress; improved self-esteem, confidence, and creativity; spiritual growth; and an increased sense
of exhilaration, adventure, and challenge from life.
Ø Physical. Getting outside provides physical benefits, such as aerobic, cardiovascular, and
muscular fitness, as well as improved functioning of the immune system.
Ø Social. The great outdoors affords social benefits like bonding with like-minded people who enjoy
outdoor activities and feeling an increased pride in your community and nation.
Ø Economic. People who regularly participate in outdoor recreation tend to be more productive at
work. Outdoor recreation creates job opportunities for others, which leads to economic growth.
And the preservation of the natural areas needed for outdoor recreation increases property values.
Ø Environmental. Outdoor recreation provides environmental benefits, including increased
environmental awareness. Concern that results from outdoor recreation can lead to increased
involvement in environmental issues.
1 Excerpted from: The Life Habit: Building Blocks of Life, 2017.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Planning Context
Courtesy Islands
Introduction
This chapter describes the recent planning activities that provide a foundation for and understanding of
the process of CORP development.
Outdoor Recreation Planning in Twin Lakes
The Village of Twin Lakes adopted its first outdoor recreation plan in 1976. The document was
amended on a number of occasions culminating with the final update in 1997. That version of the plan
contained a number of recommendations, since implemented, including: the acquisition of land in the
southeast quadrant of the Village that became Millennium Park; the addition of baseball fields at Legion
Park; and the creation of a soccer/football field at Millennium Park.
Twin Lakes’ most recent, adopted outdoor recreation plan was prepared by Ruekert & Mielke, Inc. in
2005. Key findings and recommendations included:
Ø The determination that four areas are underserved by the park system: the southwest portion of
the Village, south of West Side Park, west of Sunset Beach; the west-central portion, west of Lake
Mary, north of Lake Elizabeth; the east-central portion, east of Lake Elizabeth, south of Lake Mary;
and, the northeast corner, north of Bassett Rail Corridor Multi-Use Trail.
Ø Explore opportunities to develop playgrounds.
Ø Expand public access to the lakes by acquiring property and adding a large boat launching facility
with trailer parking on Lake Elizabeth, potentially in partnership with the Wisconsin Department of
Natural Resources (WDNR).
Ø Revisit discussion regarding the development of a trail from Lakewood School to Legion Park.
Ø Increase connectivity between northern and southern parks, recreation areas, and trails.
Ø Install signage at all parks with designated parking areas to direct park users to the main parking
and overflow parking areas.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Ø Gradually make the park system accessible for those with disabilities: provide hard-surfaced
barrier-free access from parking and main circulation areas to park facilities, and upgrade for
disabled persons the usability of park facilities such as benches, water fountains, and play
equipment.
Ø Implement an Adopt-a-Park program to help with park maintenance.
Village of Twin Lakes Comprehensive Plan
The Town of Randall and Village of Twin Lakes Smart Growth Comprehensive Plan: 2005-2024 was
prepared by Mid-America Planning Services, Inc. and adopted in March 2005 (see Future Land Use
Map below). The Utilities and Community Facilities element of the plan summarized Twin Lakes’
recreation facilities and provided a brief description of each of the parks and beaches. The chapter
also listed the following ‘Top 10 Desired Park Improvements’ for Twin Lakes:
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Bike trails
Nature areas
Hiking trails
Picnic areas
Community Center
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
6
Exercise trails
Public gardens
Outdoor swimming pool
Dog walking parks
Fitness room
Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Kenosha County Park and Open Space Plan: 2035
Kenosha County has a long history of park and open
space planning, going back to the 1970s. This includes
the periodic updating of the County park and open space
plan, the current version of which was adopted by the
Kenosha County Board in 1988. With the assistance of
the Regional Planning Commission, Kenosha County in
2011 undertook another effort to update its park and
open space plan, extending the planning horizon further
into the future. This report documents that planning
process and presents the resulting updated County park
and open space plan.2
The Kenosha County Park and Open Space Plan is an
update of the park and open space plan adopted by
Kenosha County in 1987. It serves as a long-range
planning guide for decisions on the park and open space
issues. The plan provides an inventory of the existing park
system and open space lands. It makes
recommendations for park and open space preservation,
park improvements, land acquisition, and trail and facility projects.
The updated plan was adopted by the Kenosha County Board in May 2012.3
SEWRPC Regional Park and Open Space Plan4
In 1977, the Southeast Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission (SEWRPC) adopted the Regional
Park and Open Space Plan for Southeastern Wisconsin in 1977. The plan consisted of two elements:
open space preservation element and outdoor recreation. The former consists of recommendations
for the preservation of primary environmental corridors within the Region. The latter includes:
Ø A resource-oriented outdoor recreation plan providing recommendations for the number and
location of large parks, recreation corridors to accommodate trail-oriented activities, and wateraccess facilities to enable the recreational use of rivers, inland lakes, and Lake Michigan.
Ø An urban outdoor recreation plan providing recommendations for the number and distribution of
local parks and outdoor recreational facilities required in urban areas of the Region.
2 Excerpted from A Park and Open Space Plan for Kenosha County, Kenosha County Department of
Planning and Development and Southeast Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission
3 Source: Kenosha County website, 2026.
4 Excerpted from A Park and Open Space Plan for Racine County, Racine County Department of Planning
and Development and Southeast Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Community Engagement
Introduction
The 2027-2031 CORP is an update of the Village of Twin Lakes 2005 Comprehensive Outdoor
Recreation Plan and a recommencement of the suspended Village of Twin Lakes Comprehensive
Outdoor Recreation Plan: 2018-2023. Public engagement tools supporting the development of the
2018 planning process included a Park Planning Session on November 21, 2007 (see image above)
during which attendees engaged in an exercise intended to identify the strengths, needs,
opportunities, and challenges that would guide the update of the 2005 CORP.
2026 Outdoor Recreation Visual Preference Survey
In January 2026 the Village of Twin Lakes commenced the CORP planning process with a Visual
Preference Survey (VPS), a “citizen-based” planning and design tool used to gather public opinion
regarding potential development options. A VPS presents participants with a series of digital images
representing potential outdoor recreation facilities and amenities. When used in outdoor recreation
planning, it provides an understanding of community support for various park facilities, trails, open
spaces, and other such amenities.
The Twin Lakes VPS entailed a series of 60 digital images representing options for future consideration
within the parks and recreation system. Responders were asked to assign a rating to each image, on
a scale of ‘5’ (strongly favorable) to ’1’ (strongly unfavorable), based on their opinion of the facility,
structure, or use in question. Ratings of 3.0 or higher indicate potential implementation priorities.
The VPS received 204 responses. The 20 highest rated images are presented on page 6 followed by
composite scores associates with general outdoor recreation categories (e.g., trails, nature,
playgrounds, etc.). Complete results are presented in the Appendix.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Table 1: Top 20 VPS Images
Rank
Rating
1
Image
Rank
Rating
4.20
2
4.18
3
4.17
4
4.04
5
4.03
6
3.96
6
Image
Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
7
3.94
8
3.92
9t
3.85
9t
3.85
11t
3.82
12t
3.82
13
3.81
14
3.78
15
3.74
16
3.72
17
3.71
18t
3.66
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
18t
3.66
20
3.65
Community Engagement Session
The Board of Park Commissioners hosted a Community Engagement Session on March 19, 2026 at
the Village Hale. The session represented the formal “kick-off” to the outdoor recreation planning
process. Its purpose was to inform the public of the planning process, summarize statewide outdoor
recreation trends and goals, present and discuss local demographic trends, summarize the 2018
outdoor recreation planning process, summarize the results of the VPS, and gain insight from
participants into their outdoor recreation desires.
First Draft Working Session
The Board of Park Commissioners met on July 14, 2026 at Village Hall to review the first draft of the
plan. The purpose of the working session was to identify desired changes to the plan prior to formal
presentation to the community. Although a working session, the meeting was open to the public.
First Draft Presentation
The first draft of the Village of Wind Point Outdoor Recreation Plan 2026-2030 was presented on
MONTH DAY, 2026 at Village Hall.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Goals & Objectives
Courtesy Remax
Introduction
The goals and objectives presented below and on the following pages were created based upon the
results of the public engagement efforts described in the previous section of this report and applicable
statewide trends identified in the Wisconsin Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan 202530 (SCORP).
Goals & Objectives
Ensure parks, recreation facilities, and other public spaces provide access for all
residents
Ø Ensure all parks, recreation facilities, and open spaces accommodate the special needs of elderly
and disabled users, compliant with ADA Title II and Title III.
Ø Identify opportunities to update and expand existing facilities and services to increase accessibility.
Ø Apply safe design principles in order to make parks and recreation facilities safer and more user
friendly.
Ø Bring equity to parks and recreation planning by providing facilities for all user groups.
Ø Identify and remove structural and cultural barriers impeding outdoor recreation opportunity.
Build a healthier, happier, more vibrant community
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Expand walking and bicycling by adding more trails, paths, and bike lanes.
Anticipate the needs of the changing community and structure programs and facilities accordingly.
Encourage volunteerism.
Utilize financial resources efficiently and equitably.
Strengthen community image and sense of place.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Ø Enhance health and wellness through innovative and diversified parks, arts, recreation, and cultural
opportunities.
Ø Encourage family participation.
Ø Provide quiet outdoor spaces for rest and reflection.
Preserve, protect, maintain, improve, and enhance natural resources and open
spaces
Ø Preserve environmentally sensitive areas and at risk habitats.
Ø Prioritize the development of passive parks and recreation facilities.
Ø Incorporate native plants into landscaping and stormwater plans for all outdoor recreation facilities.
Ensure that new development projects include adequate park and recreation
facilities
Ø Work with residential developers during the platting process to identify sites appropriate for
neighborhood parks and preserved open space.
Ø Encourage developers to incorporate pedestrian and bicycle facilities into all proposed commercial
developments and residential subdivisions.
Ø Update Title 16: Subdivisions to emphasize preservation of greenspace in the plat review and
approval process.
Develop a year-round park and recreation system embraced by the community
Ø Identify locations for seasonally specific activities such as tree planting, community gardens,
sledding, and cross country skiing, among others.
Ø Utilize the park system to host seasonal festivals, farmers’ markets, food trucks, monthly events,
and other such gatherings.
Ø Create parks and recreation programs or families, kids, seniors, etc.
Ø Publicize and promote recreational programs and events.
Diversify the transportation system by expanding multi-modal opportunities
Ø Identify opportunities to increase multi-modal connectivity between neighborhoods, existing parks
and trails, schools, and other key destination nodes.
Ø Work with the Town of Randall, Kenosha County and SEWRPC to expand pedestrian and bicycle
facilities.
Ø Identify appropriate streets as designated bicycle routes.
Ø Utilize wayfinding tools to assist residents and visitors in navigating to and from parks and
recreation facilities and other Village destinations.
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Continually evaluate outdoor recreation levels of service
Ø Utilize the Capital Improvements Plan to budget for future outdoor recreation expenditures.
Ø Ensure that each neighborhood has access to appropriate recreational facilities.
Ø Ensure that future parks and recreation facilities are sited and designed to enhance neighborhood
cohesion and provide common areas for neighborhood gatherings.
Ø Engage the general public in the design and development of future parks and recreation facilities.
Ø Pursue state and federal grants to acquire and develop desired parks and recreation facilities.
Ø Pursue public-private partnerships to aid in acquiring, developing, and maintaining parks and
outdoor recreation facilities.
Ø Consider pursuing revenue generating recreational facilities and events to supplement parks and
recreation budget.
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Community Profile
Courtesy West of the I
Introduction
The purpose of the Community Profile is to briefly describe the demographic, economic, social, and
geographical characteristics that underpin the Village providing a foundation for outdoor recreation
planning.
Metropolitan Statistical Area5
Metropolitan statistical areas (MSA) are geographic areas designated by the United States Office of
Management and Budget (OMB). They consist of the county or counties associated with at least one
urbanized area of at least 50,000 population, plus adjacent counties having a high degree of social
and economic integration with the core as measured through commuting ties. MSA provide a more
meaningful measure of population and economic dynamics than what can be achieved by focusing
upon individual municipalities. Kenosha County is part of the Chicago-Naperville-Michigan City
Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), the largest MSA in the Midwest and third largest in the U.S. Its
proximity to the Cities of Chicago and Milwaukee, along with the natural beauty of Lakes Elizabeth and
Mary, explain the preponderance of seasonal homes in the community.
5 Source: United States Census Bureau, 2021.
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Population Profile
The Census
Twin Lakes has experienced sustained growth
The 2000 Census was the last to utilize a long
for more than five decades (see Figure 1).
survey format. Beginning in 2010, the Census
According to the Wisconsin Department of
Bureau distributed an abbreviated survey
Administration (WDOA), growth is projected to
instrument, one that collected a more limited
plateau before beginning a gradual decline. As
volume of data. Due to these limitations, the
a US Census Bureau State Data Center Lead
census is now supplemented with additional
Agency, WDOA develops annual estimates
data gathered through the annual American
and future projections of the population for all
Community Survey (ACS). Also conducted by
Wisconsin towns, villages, cities, and counties.
the Census Bureau, the ACS is an expanded
statistical survey sent to approximately 250,000
These projections are based on the prior
addresses monthly. It gathers information
census and analysis of contemporary data
previously contained in the decennial census.
including housing units, dormitory and
institutional populations, automobile
registrations, and other indicators of population change.6
Figure 2 compares the population of the Village within select age groups for the years 2010, 2020,
and 2023. These groups are important for planning purposes since each represents a differing set of
needs with respect to outdoor recreation, transportation, housing, and the like. Table 5 provides a brief
description of each group, its characteristics, and examples of potential park and recreation needs.
6 Source: Wisconsin Department of Administration, 2022.
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Table 2: Characteristics and Needs of Select Age Groups
Age
Group
Description
Characteristics
Types of Park & Recreation Needs
Under 5
Infants, toddlers,
pre-school, and
kindergarten
Entirely dependent
upon others
Playgrounds; splash pads; summer park
programs; neighborhood parks; gymnastics and
tumbling.
5 to 19
School aged
children and young
adults
Dependent upon
others for lodging,
food, education, and
most other needs
Athletic facilities; multi-purpose sports fields;
BMX/skate parks; splash pads; playgrounds;
disc golf; RC/drone areas; adventure facility
(climbing walls, ropes course, etc.); ice rinks;
summer park programs; youth baseball/ soccer;
neighborhood parks; teen center; youth fitness
& wellness programs; after school programs.
20 to 24
Post high school;
job and career
training (college,
trades, military, etc.)
Somewhat dependent
upon others for certain
needs
Ice rinks; music in the park; disc golf; RC/ drone
areas; adventure facility (climbing walls, ropes
course, etc.); martial arts, sports fields/courts.
25 to 44
Established adults
Increasing earning and
spending potential;
Outdoor fitness stations; public art; water
features (fountains, reflecting pools); camping;
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
traditional child-raising
years
community gardens; yoga/tai chi in the park;
softball/volleyball leagues; meeting space for
rental.
45 to 64
Mature adults
Prime earning years,
often ‘empty nesters’
Community gardens; outdoor fitness stations;
yoga/tai chi in the park; pickleball; meeting
space for rental.
65 to 84
Retirement-age
Decreased earning,
sustained activity level,
increasing healthcare
costs
Hiking/biking trails, equipment rentals (kayaks,
XC skis, etc.), community gardens; senior
exercise stations; yoga/tai chi in the park;
dancing; pickleball; meeting space for rental.
85 and
over
Post retirement
Decreased earning,
spending, and activity
level
Community gardens; senior exercise stations;
yoga/tai chi in the park; dancing.
All ages
n/a
n/a
Multi-use trails; pedestrian & bicycle facilities;
passive parks; fishing areas; swimming pools;
music/movies in the park; public art; water
features (fountains, reflecting pools); nature
center/nature trails; equestrian trails; picnic
areas; dog parks/exercise areas; performing
arts facility; multi-generational community
center; programs for people with disabilities;
community festivals & special events; arts &
crafts.
Note: The information presented in this table is intended to reflect examples of the types of park and
recreation facilities that may be desired by the given population group. It should not be considered an
exhaustive list.
Landscape Profile
Geology7
The surface geology for the whole area
is glacial till in one form or another to
100-260 feet. The bedrock immediately
underlying the glacial till in the area
primarily consists of shale (Maquoketa)
and dolomite (Cayugan, Niagaran and
Alexandrian) to a depth of about 860
feet. Far beneath these sedimentary
rocks is the crystalline rock, which is
impermeable to water. The surface
geology and landforms in the region
Table 3: General Population
Characteristics
2010
Median Age
2024
41.3
50.6
Median Household Income
$62,471
$86,222
Bachelor’s Degree or Higher
23.2%
23.4%
Housing Units
3,279
3,961
$198,300
$270,700
Average Household Size
2.35
1.97
Households with Children Under
the Age of 18
842
614
Median Housing Value
Source: US Census Bureau
7 Excerpted from Town of Randall and Village of Twin Lakes Smart Growth Comprehensive Plan: 2005-2024.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
(and much of Wisconsin) were formed by the continental ice sheets that advanced and retreated from
the region several times during the period of time known as the Pleistocene Epoch. Glaciated deposits
are grouped into two categories depending on how the materials were moved. If moving water
transported the materials, the resulting deposits are referred to as outwash deposits and are
characterized by well-sorted materials and stratified layers. If the ice sheets physically moved or carried
the materials, the deposits are unsorted and unstratified and are known as till deposits. Although there
are two main types of glacial deposits, they appear in a wide variety of landforms.
At the surface glacial features dominate the whole area. Of note are knobs and kettles, which shape
the Village. Knobs and kettles are defined as gravel cones and piles of till, forming many rounded
knobs or ridges and between these are small ponds or swamps known as kettles. A moraine
separates the Twin Lakes, with three very significant knobs on the west end and Indian Point. Another
knob is in the park, another just north of the Village Hall and still others to the north. The wetlands
bisected by Holy Hill Road are the kettles.
Soils8
Soils in the region were formed from the Pleistocene deposits transported by continental glaciers that
moved across the land many thousands of years ago. Some of the soils found in the Village
developed from sandy loam glacial till and is generally grouped into two soil associations Dodge-St.
Charles-McHenry Association and the Plano-Ringwood-Griswold Association (Exhibit G-3). These are
generally found on elevated sites and contain silt loam. The Batavia-Houghton-Dresden Association is
associated with the streams in the area. These forested silt and prairie silt soils dominate this area of
the region.
Some of the soils within the Town and Village pose a number of limitations for development. The most
common limitation is related to the use of individual septic systems. Some of the soils do not allow
proper drainage, while others are saturated.
Surface Waters9
Lake Elizabeth and Lake Mary are the two main water features in the Village of Twin Lakes. These two
lakes alone make up approximately 1,017.5 surface acres of the Village. Lake Victoria adds
approximately 3.5 acres of water recreation. A small stream flows along the southern edge of West
Side Park and numerous small ponds are present throughout the Village. There are many other water
features in close proximity to the Village. The Town of Randall encompasses most of Powers Lake and
Benedict Lake. Nearby Lilly Lake, Silver Lake, Center Lake, Camp Lake, and Pell Lake are all located
within a short driving distance in southwestern Kenosha County.
8 Excerpted from Town of Randall and Village of Twin Lakes Smart Growth Comprehensive Plan: 2005-2024.
9 Excerpted from the Village of Twin Lakes 2005 Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Environmental Corridors and Isolated Natural Resource Areas10
Primary and secondary environmental corridors are also located within the Village. The environmental
corridors include both wetlands and woodlands. Environmental corridors and isolated natural resource
areas serve a multitude of purposes. These areas contribute significantly to the rural atmosphere that
most area residents desire while preserving the purity of our drinking water, as well as maintaining
integral portions of our ecosystem. The Southeastern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission has
identified and delineated these environmentally sensitive areas so that local governmental agencies
can protect them.
Environmental corridors have been split into two major categories. Primary environmental corridors are
at least 400 acres in size, two miles in length, and 200 feet in width. Secondary environmental
corridors generally connect with the primary environmental corridors and are at least 100 acres in size
and one mile in length. Isolated natural resource areas are at least five acres in size and are separated
physically from the environmental corridors by intensive urban and agricultural land uses.
Primary environmental corridors within the Village are fairly dispersed, mainly along the western edge of
the lakes. The wetlands to the west of Lake Elizabeth make up a significant portion of the primary
environmental corridors. Because both Lake Mary and Lake Elizabeth are considered part of primary
environmental corridors, there are a significant number of subsequent shorelands and floodlands
associated with the lakes that are also considered primary environmental corridors. Several Village
parks also encompass wooded areas that contain primary environmental corridors. These areas
include the hill in Lance Park and the wooded areas in West Side Park.
10 Excerpted from the Village of Twin Lakes 2005 Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Ø Primary Environmental Corridors11
The primary environmental corridors include the best remaining woodlands, wetlands, and wildlife
habitat area and are, in effect, a composite of the best remaining elements of the natural resource
base of the study area. These corridors have truly immeasurable environmental and recreational value.
Protection of the primary environmental corridors from intrusion by incompatible uses, and thereby
from degradation and destruction, is directly related to the provision of quality outdoor recreational
opportunities and should therefore be of high priority to the Village. The preservation of these areas in
an essentially open, natural state, including park and open space uses, limited agricultural uses, and
very low-density residential uses, will serve to maintain a high level of environmental quality in the
Village, protect its natural beauty, and provide valuable recreation opportunities.
Ø Secondary Environmental Corridors12
No less important are the secondary environmental corridors. These areas are very similar to the
primary environmental corridors except that they are simply not as large in size. The secondary
environmental corridors carry out the same valuable functions as the larger primary environmental
corridors, but at a slightly smaller scale. The secondary environmental corridors are equally important
to the ecosystem and to the preservation of natural resources and should be protected to the same
degree. Secondary environmental corridors in Twin Lakes are mainly east and north of the two lakes.
The land that surrounds the Bassett Rail Corridor Multi-Use Trail is considered part of a secondary
environmental corridor. Lake Victoria is completely surrounded by a secondary environmental corridor.
Isolated natural resource areas within the Village are mainly privately owned wooded areas located
east of the two lakes. These areas are owned by private entities, but their preservation remains
important to the environment and to the Village.
11 Excerpted from the Village of Twin Lakes 2005 Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan.
12 Excerpted from the Village of Twin Lakes 2005 Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
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20
Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Inventory of Parks & Recreation Facilities
Introduction
Twin Lakes’ outdoor recreation system is comprised of parks, trails, natural open spaces, beaches,
boat launches, athletic fields, and golf courses. fields. Additional public recreation facilities include the
sports facilities, playgrounds, and trails associated with the Lakewood and Randall Schools. Regional
parks and outdoor recreation facilities include Kenosha County Veterans Memorial Park, Fox River
Park, Silver Lake Park, Old Settlers Park, and Bong State Recreational Area, among others.
Village Parks, Beaches, & Trails
Arrowhead Park
Arrowhead Park is a 1.38-acre located on Tomahawk Drive. It hosts a playground and open space.
Central Park
Central Park is located in downtown Twin Lakes at the intersection of Main Street, North Lake, and
South Lake. The 0.79-acre park is designated as a memorial to people who have contributed to the
community.
Ice House Multi-Use Trail
The 1.2-mile Ice House Multi-use Trail begins in downtown Twin Lakes and connects County road EM
to County Highway F. The 10-foot wide asphalt path is open for use by pedestrians, bikes, and other
non-motorized uses.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Lance Park
Lance Park sits on the shore of Lake Mary. The park
features a beach, boat launch, fishing pier, basketball
hoops, waterfront amphitheater, Schout House, and
small stage. It plays host to the Aquanut Water
Shows (a family focused choreographed Water Ski
Show Team), the Park Commission’s Movies in the
Parks Series, and Libertyfest. It was built on land
donated to the Village around 1960 by the Lance
family from Kenosha.
Aquanut Water Show
Formed in 1972, the Aquanut Water
Shows Organization is a water ski
demonstration and show team
committed to providing direction to
youth and encouraging family
participation through the positive
learning environment of waterskiing. In
2015 they were named the National
Show Ski Association Show Ski Team of
the Year. Although based in Twin Lakes,
the Aquanuts perform throughout
Southeast Wisconsin and Northern Illinois
communities with our waterski and stage
shows. The Aquanuts are a nonprofit
organization that relies solely on the
generosity of donations.
Legion Park
Legion Park was originally owned by American
Legion Post 544. The seven-acre park located
on Legion Drive was purchased by the Village in
Courtesy www.aquanutsshows.com
1973 and now contains a skateboarding park,
playground equipment, baseball diamonds, a basketball court, and a restroom.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Lucille Beach Park
Lucille Beach is a quarter-acre park on Lake Elizabeth hosting a sandy beach and park bench.
Millennium Park
The newest of Twin Lakes’ parks,
Millennium Park was constructed from
1999 to 2002. It is located at Stateline
Road and Richmond Park Drive
features a pavilion, a soccer/football
field, playground equipment, vending
machine, walking trails, sledding, and a
restroom.
Courtesy Jonni Hahn
Mueller Park
Mueller Park is two acres in size and is located off Sunset
Court and Hunt Avenue. It includes playground equipment,
a sledding hill, an open field, and landscaped grounds.
Musial Road Park
Musial Road Park is located at the end of Musial Road. It
is 0.88-acres in size and hosts small sand beach, sitting
bench, and boat launch.
Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach is located at the end of Sunset Drive on a grassy
peninsula jutting into Lake Elizabeth. It offers a small sand beach,
playground equipment, and portable restroom facility.
West Side Park
West Side Park was created in 1978 and is 16 acres in size.
Located at Spiegelhoff Road and Musial Road, it hosts a widely
utilized sledding hill, wooded area, small creek (near Musial Road),
and a designated snowmobile trail through the road right-of-way
along the park’s perimeter. Park amenities include playground
equipment, sledding hill, basketball court, portable restroom facility,
baseball field, sitting bench, trails through a wooded area, tennis
courts, small bleachers, and two gravel parking lots.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Village-Owned land
The Village owns two undeveloped parcels each of which would be potentially appropriate for future
parks. The first is 1.39 acres in size and is located on Chapel Avenue. It has been considered for a
multi-use stormwater management facility. The other is 1.22 acres in size and is located at Wilmot
Avenue and Rink Avenue. It currently hosts a municipal parking lot but has been used for recreation
purposes in the past.
School Facilities
Lakewood School
Lakewood School is located
at 1218 Wilmot Avenue. Half
of its 20 acres are home to
basketball goals, baseball
diamond, softball diamond,
football/soccer field, wooded
area, off-street parking,
playground equipment, and
open space.
Courtesy Kenosha Co. Interactive Mapping
Randall School
Location on CTH F, Randall School offers baseball
diamonds, basketball goals, football/soccer field, offstreet parking, play equipment, and open space on 15 of
its 40 acres.
Courtesy Kenosha Co. Interactive Mapping
24
Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
SCORP 2025-2030
Courtesy WDNR
Introduction13
States are required to complete a Statewide
Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP)
every five years to be eligible to participate in the Land
and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) State
Assistance Program. SCORPs are intended to evaluate
outdoor recreation trends and issues of statewide
importance and set forth ideas about recreation’s
future role in the state. There are several required
elements for SCORPs, including identifying priorities for
use of LWCF grants. Of the many important issues
related to outdoor recreation in Wisconsin, the SCORP
highlights those areas of greatest need thus providing
a framework for evaluating LWCF grants.
SCORP 2025-2030 Goals
Ensure that all Wisconsinites have
equitable opportunities to participate
in outdoor recreation, regardless of
where they live or their ethnicity,
gender, income, abilities, or age.
Maintain and expand the sustainability
of recreational opportunities in our
state, ensuring that existing
opportunities are well funded and
have the support to grow and expand
where needed.
Towns, villages, cities, counties, tribal governments,
Enhance and grow the collaborative
school districts, and other state political subdivisions
partnership approach across federal,
are eligible to apply for LWCF grants for acquisition or
state, and local agencies and private
development of public outdoor recreation areas and
non-profit groups and businesses to
facilities. These government entities best understand
provide high-quality outdoor
their citizens’ needs, as well as the opportunities to
experiences for all Wisconsinites.
leverage their local resources and assets. As such, the
focus of the SCORP is on providing a range of
information, at the county level where possible, to help the public and their elected officials place local
conditions, needs, and opportunities into a broader framework.
Although the SCORP addresses all types of recreation that occur outdoors (as required by federal
legislation), its focus is on “nature-based recreation” activities that are typically provided at larger public
lands and require or occur in natural habitats or settings.
13 Much of the information presented in this chapter is excerpted from Wisconsin Statewide Comprehensive
Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) 2025-2030, WDNR.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
SCORP 2025-2030 Strategies
Provide more opportunities for outdoor recreation close to home
Provide needed recreation facilities
Improve affordability of participation
Support, develop, and enhance mentoring and instructional programs
Create more welcoming outdoor spaces
Improve the distribution of information on recreation opportunities
Expand and diversify funding sources
Adapt to new environmental conditions both in terms of participation in outdoor
activities as well as the management of recreation opportunities and facilities.
Ø Lead by example on climate change mitigation
Ø Create an implementation plan that identifies desired outcomes as well as the
partners to coordinate and advocate for outdoor recreation throughout Wisconsin.
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Lower Lake Michigan Coastal Region
SCORP 2025-2030 is divided into eight regions:
Great Northwest, Northwoods, Mississippi River
Corridor, Western Sands, Lake Winnebago
Waters, Southern Gateways, Upper Lake
Michigan Coastal, and Lower Lake Michigan. The
Lower Lake Michigan Coastal Region is the most
urban and populous of the eight regions.
The urban influence of Milwaukee and its
surrounding suburbs has led to an extensive
network of trails and associated recreation facilities
such as dog parks, athletic fields, and sport
courts. Despite this urban influence, some areas
of the region offer opportunities for undeveloped
outdoor recreation. The five units of the Kettle
Moraine State Forest are easily accessible not
only to the region’s residents but also the greater
Chicago metropolitan area and are some of the
most heavily used public lands in the state.
Landscape Setting
The region is home to some of the world’s best examples of continental glacial activity. Drumlins,
eskers, kettle lakes, kames, ground and end moraines, and other glacial features are evident
throughout the area. The area is protected in part by the Kettle Moraine State Forest. Historically, many
of the state’s richest and most diverse streams and rivers were found in the southeastern part of
26
Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Wisconsin. While most of these have been degraded, improving management practices have
improved many of these waterways. However, the Mukwonago River has maintained its quality and
harbors one of the highest concentrations of fish, mussels, and other aquatic invertebrates in the
Midwest.
Recreation Uses and Participation
Lake Michigan is a major recreational resource for the region. It provides opportunities for fishing,
swimming, wind surfing, sailing, and all types of boating. There are a number of parks in the area
located along Lake Michigan. Richard Bong State Recreation Area offers the widest variety of
recreation activities of any state property, including canoe/kayaking, swimming, fishing, picnicking,
camping, horseback riding, hiking, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, motorcycling, and hunting.
Several rivers that empty into the lake, such as the Milwaukee, Root, and Pike, provide surprisingly
good fishing that includes spring and fall runs of salmon and steelhead from Lake Michigan. Urban
recreational trails for walking, bicycling, and roller blading exist, such as the Root River in Racine and
Oak Creek Parkways and the Hank Aaron State Trail in Milwaukee. As would be expected in an
urbanized area, little land is available for open space recreation, such as camping and hunting.
However, there are still many small patches of natural landscape left that could support activities such
as bird watching and nature observation.
Public Outdoor Recreation Supply
The Lower Lake Michigan Coastal Region has approximately 95,000 acres of public land available for
outdoor recreation. Properties in close proximity to Lake Michigan are especially popular, as well as
other small pockets of land dispersed between the region’s large urban centers. This section briefly
describes the public conservation and recreation lands in the Lower Lake Michigan Coastal Region.
Federal
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service manages approximately 1,400 acres in the Lower Lake Michigan
Coastal area, located in both Ozaukee, Sheboygan, and Walworth counties. These parcels are
reserved mainly for waterfowl production and grassland protection.
State
The Department of Natural Resources owns more than 90,000 acres of land in the Lower Lake
Michigan Coastal Region. Kohler-Andrae and Harrington Beach State Parks include developed
campgrounds, miles of trails, boating opportunities, and picnic sites. The Kettle Moraine State Forest
State (see image on following page) provides numerous trails and developed recreation opportunities.
Cedarburg Bog State Natural Area, the most intact large bog in southeastern Wisconsin, houses a
relict community of flora and fauna.
27
Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Courtesy Chicago Tribune
County
No county forests are located in the Lower Lake Michigan Coastal Region; however, county parks
offer campgrounds, boat launches, walking trails, and other types of recreational opportunities.
Trends in Lower Lake Michigan Coastal Region
Strong Increase
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
ATV / UTV riding
Pickleball
Wildlife watching, nature photography
Walking, running (on paved trails)
Moderate Increase
Ø Bicycling (regular bicycle)
Ø Camping (RV, pop-up, van)
Ø Camping (tent)
Courtesy Alex Wiezbicki
28
Courtesy Chicago Tribune
Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Canoeing, kayaking, SUP, row boating
Disk golf
Hiking, walking (on unpaved trails)
Mountain biking (regular bicycle)
Picnicking
Use of shelter areas, pavilions
Visiting beaches
Visiting a dog park
Visiting a nature center
Slight Increase
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Baseball
Bicycling (e-bike)
Cross-country skiing
Fishing
Geocaching
Hosting large social gatherings
Hunting
Motor boating
Mountain biking (e-bike)
Snowshoeing
Soccer
Splash pads, outdoor pools
Swimming in lakes, ponds, or rivers
Target archery
Water skiing, wakeboarding
Winter biking (fat tire biking)
Courtesy Trip Advisor
Stable
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Basketball
Dual-sport motorcycle riding
4WD vehicles (off-road)
Horseback riding
Ice skating
Sledding
Softball
Tennis
Target firearm shooting
Trapping
Courtesy Lake-Link
29
Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Slight Decrease
Ø Ice fishing
Ø Snowmobiling
Other than certain images the entirety of this section was excerpted from Wisconsin SCORP 20252030.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Outdoor Recreation Standards
Courtesy WDNR
Introduction
Standards provide a means by which to assess existing facilities to determine whether current and
future needs are met. They provide context but are not intended to be a determinant of need.
Assessment Methods
Most local governments rely upon a ‘needs analysis’ to determine a desired level of service. The
purpose of such an assessment is to ensure that adequate park and recreation facilities are available
for residents and user groups. These analyses may be based on established national standards,
current local needs, existing natural and cultural resources, or some combination thereof. Public
opinion is a key component of the needs assessment process.
Standards-Based Needs
The most widely adopted standards are based on early National Recreation and Parks Association
(NRPA) Guidelines. First issued in 1934, they reflected the experience and recommendations of a
group of outdoor recreation professionals rather than systematic research of local needs and desires.
As a result, communities across the U.S. possess nearly identical standards though geography and
population vary greatly.
Ø Recommendation of 6.25 to 10.5 acres of parkland per 1,000 persons.
Ø A classification system for parks, which vary in size, amenities, and service area.
Ø Facility Development standards as a guideline for the number of facilities needed per capita.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Although widely accepted, there is increased recognition that national-based standards may not be
providing communities what they really want. A growing school of park and recreation planners argue
uniform standards:
Ø Emphasize “how much” rather than “how good.”
Ø Reflect past desires and expectations rather than today’s needs.
Ø Do not recognize the unique conditions, resources, and needs of different communities and
cultural groups.
Ø Are often unrealistic and difficult to implement.
The main critique of uniform standards is that they may contribute to underachievement in more
ambitious communities.
Demand-Based Needs
Demand-based needs assessments are closely tied to the results of public input, participation rates,
and current usage data. The results of the demand-based assessment will refine land acquisition and
programming needs and identify facility provision priorities.
Resource-based Needs
Finally, resource-based needs are those constructed upon the physical and environmental resources
that provide the underlying foundation upon which the parks and recreation system rests. In Twin
Lakes, these include creeks and streams; woodlands, wetlands, and remnant grasslands; historic and
cultural landscapes; and the lakes.
Table 4: Parks & Open Space Classifications
Classification
General Description
Location Criteria /
Service Area
Size Criteria
Mini-Park (also
Pocket Park)
Used to address limited, isolated,
or unique recreational needs.
Less than 1/4 mile distance
in residential setting.
Between 2,500
square feet and
one acre in size.
Neighborhood
Park
The basic unit of the park system
and the recreational and social
focus of the neighborhood. Focus
is on informal active and passive
recreation.
1/4 to 1/2 mile distance
and uninterrupted by nonresidential roads and other
physical barriers.
5 acres is
considered
minimum. 5-10
acres optimal.
School-Park
Depending on circumstances,
combining parks with school sites
can fulfill the space requirements
for other classes of park, such as
Determined by location and
size of school district
property.
Variable,
depends on
function.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
neighborhood, community, sports
complex, and special use.
Community Park
Serves broader purpose than
neighborhood park. Focus is on
meeting community-based
recreation needs, as well as
preserving unique landscapes and
open space.
Determined by the quality
and suitability of the site.
Usually serves two or more
neighborhoods and 1/2 to
3 mile distance.
As needed to
accommodate
desired uses.
Usually between
30 and 50 acres.
Special Purpose
Park
A park or recreation area that
meets a specific need or serves a
particular purpose.
Entire community.
Varies with the
size of the area
and land
available.
Large Urban
Park
Large urban parks serve a broader
purpose than community parks
and are used when community
and neighborhood parks are not
adequate to serve the needs of the
community. Focus is on meeting
community- based recreational
needs, as well as preserving
unique landscapes and open
space.
Determined by the quality
and suitability of the site.
Usually serves the entire
community.
Minimum
necessary to of
accommodate
desired uses,
with 50 acres
being typical
minimum.
Natural Resource
Area
Lands set aside for preservation of
significant natural resources,
remnant landscapes, open space,
and visual aesthetics/buffering.
Resource availability and
opportunity.
Variable.
Greenway
Effectively tie park system
components together to form a
continuous park environment.
Resource availability and
opportunity.
Variable.
Sports Complex
Consolidates heavily programmed
athletic fields and associated
facilities to larger and fewer sites
strategically located throughout the
community
Strategically located
community-wide facilities.
Determined by
projected
demand. Usually
a minimum of 25
acres, with 40-80
acres optimal.
Special Use
Covers a broad range of parks and
recreation facilities oriented toward
single-purpose visit.
Variable- dependent on
specific use.
Variable.
Private Park /
Recreation
Facility
Parks and recreation facilities that
are privately owned yet contribute
to the public park and recreation
system.
Variable- dependent on
specific use.
Variable.
Source: National Recreation and Park Association.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Assessing Park & Recreation Needs & Demand
NRPA regularly develops outdoor recreation standards based upon national surveying. Such
standards can be effective as a guide to determining whether existing facilities and services are
sufficient to meet existing (and future) needs. Within communities of similar size, the determination of
adequacy may be influenced by a number of variables, including:
Ø The culture of the community.
Ø The percentage of the population represented by seniors, youth, motorized & silent sports
enthusiasts, etc.
Ø The availability of natural assets such as lakes, forests, grasslands, and the like.
Ø Proximity to state and county parks and recreation facilities.
Ø Seasonal fluctuations in non-resident population.
NRPA’s 2021 Field Report recommends municipalities provide one park for every 2,277 residents
served and 9.9 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents.14 The report was drawn from the results of
surveys submitted by nearly 1,000 agencies (i.e., municipalities) across the U.S. The data was used to
establish typical population-based benchmarks for parks and recreation facilities. The best standards
are those deemed adequate by residents. Regardless of how they are developed, standards must:
Ø Reflect the needs and lifestyles of current residents and the area being served.
Ø Provide a basis for measuring achievement of community objectives, both quantitative and
qualitative.
Ø Be attainable within a reasonable time frame and with available or reasonably anticipated funding
sources.
Ø Be based on sound principles, information, and a credible development process, and flexible
enough to handle unanticipated situations and rapidly changing needs.15
Accessibility
Americans with Disabilities Act, Title II16
Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals with
disabilities in all programs, activities, and services of public entities. It applies to all state and local
governments, their departments and agencies, and any other instrumentalities or special purpose
districts of state or local governments. It clarifies the requirements of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation
Act of 1973, as amended, for public transportation systems that receive federal financial assistance,
and extends coverage to all public entities that provide public transportation, whether or not they
receive federal financial assistance.
14 Source: NRPA Agency Performance Review, National Recreation and Park Association, 2021.
15
Source: Criteria for Developing Outdoor Recreation Standards, Seymour Gold.
16 Source: United States Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division, 2021.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
This title outlines the administrative processes to be followed, including requirements for self-evaluation
and planning; requirements for making reasonable modifications to policies, practices, and procedures
where necessary to avoid discrimination; architectural barriers to be identified; and the need for
effective communication with people with hearing, vision, and speech disabilities. This title is regulated
and enforced by the U.S. Department of Justice.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Recommendations
Courtesy WTI
Introduction
The purpose of the CORP is to guide the Village of Twin Lakes in the acquisition, development, and
enhancement of the recreational resources necessary to meet current and future needs. The
recommendations presented in this section are based upon a number of public participation and
community engagement activities, a review of state and national recreation standards, an inventory of
local and regional parks and recreation facilities, and the goals and objectives presented on pages 911 of this document. The timing of park acquisition and development and improvements to existing
facilities will coincide with the demand for recreational facilities and availability of funding.
Consistent with the goals and objectives of this plan, it is the policy of the Village of Twin Lakes to
provide accessible and sustainable parks and recreation facilities.
Accessibility
Parks, trails, and recreation facilities free from barriers that preclude participation and
enjoyment by all residents.
Sustainability
Parks, trails, and recreation facilities designed and maintained to preserve, enhance,
or restore water quality, wildlife habitat, and natural landscapes.
General
General recommendations for parks, trails, and recreation facilities.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Table 5: Policy-Based Recommendations
Policy
Area
Recommendation
Conduct system-wide audit for compliance with ADA requirements.
Ensure all parks accommodate users of differing abilities. Focus should be on parking areas,
access to structures and shelters, picnic tables, water fountains, play equipment, and trails and
paths.
Provide pedestrian and bicycle facilities connecting neighborhoods to parks and community
destination nodes.
Utilize parks for community gatherings, cultural events, and local festivals.
Incorporate natural landscaping into all parks.
Plant trees in parks and on Village owned properties.
Table 6: General Park and Recreation Recommendations
Policy
Areas
Recommendations
Ensure all parks are welcoming, and safe, and regularly maintained.
Ensure facilities are updated and attractive for rentals.
Provide pedestrian and bicycle access to all parks via sidewalks, trails, and on-road bicycle lanes.
Install bicycle racks at all park locations.
Provide sufficient trash and recycling receptacles at all parks.
Ensure safety materials are available under all play equipment.
Regularly communicate with user groups regarding existing facilities.
Provide sufficient resources in support of parks, trails, recreation facilities, and recreational
programs.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Make parks available for use by community groups.
Food trucks, yoga, Tai Chi, art, music, and the like at Village parks.
Establish free Wi-Fi hot spots in parks and other Village-owned properties.
Table 7: Park Additions and Enhancements
Park
Recommendation
Create sledding area.
Lance Park
Develop a passive ADA compliant multi-use (walking, Nordic
skiing, snowshoe, etc.) path through the park
Develop a shoreline stabilization plan utilizing ‘soft’ measures (live
staking, contour wattling, brush layering, etc.); avoid hard
techniques like retaining walls, rip rap, etc.
Add pavilion and restrooms.
Refurbish or resurface basketball and tennis courts.
West Side Park
Develop a passive multi-use (walking, Nordic skiing, snowshoe,
etc.) path with rest & reflection areas through the park.
Develop disc golf course.
Replace playground equipment.
Add community garden.
Legion Park
Convert former skate park site to parking for ball field and
community garden.
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Policy Areas
Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Replace playground equipment.
Incorporate fitness/exercise stations along walking trail.
Millennium Park
Add community garden.
Mueller Park
Upgrade playground equipment.
Repair and resurface basketball court, install area light.
Work with the Shoreline Protection and Rehabilitation Committee
(SPRC) to stabilize the shoreline with soft measures.
Lucille Beach
Add universally accessible canoe/ kayak launch.
Work with the SPRC to replace the existing steel retaining wall
with soft measures.
Sunset Beach
Clearly define park boundaries with landscaping, fencing, and/or
signage.
Add universally accessible canoe/ kayak launch.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Additional Outdoor Recreation Facility Recommendations
In order to meet the evolving outdoor recreation needs of the community, the Village should consider
the following new parks or additions to existing parks, beaches, and trails.
All-Abilities Playground
An all-abilities playground is a universally designed, sensory-rich environment that enables children to
develop physically, socially, and emotionally.17 With inclusive playgrounds, the objective is to include
everyone. They are thoughtfully designed to provide a safe place where children of all abilities can play
together and are developmentally appropriate for children with and without disabilities.18 All-abilities
playgrounds are:
Ø Physical Accommodations. Accommodating physical disabilities is one component of an inclusive
playground. This includes meeting ADA requirements by providing a wheelchair accessible route
17 Excerpted from: Inclusive Playgrounds: How to Plan, Design, and Build Inclusive Playgrounds, General
Recreation Inc., 2021.
18 Excerpted from: What is an Inclusive Playground, May Recreation, 2021.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
and ramps/transfer points. Customized equipment allows all kids to enjoy the playground as it is
meant to be enjoyed.
Ø Engaging. Inclusive playgrounds provide a number of different opportunities for children to explore.
They integrate all the senses and encourages social play. There is a little something for everyone
including those that like to climb, run, spin, slide, swing and more.
Ø Integrated. A true inclusive playground doesn’t mean that there is special equipment in a separate
area off to the side, but rather a space designed as a cohesive community where play
opportunities are integrated throughout. This is important for social development.
Ø For Everyone. Just as the name suggests, inclusive playgrounds have another mission that goes
beyond the physical accommodations and specialized equipment. These playgrounds do so
much for the community. They educate and bring families and people together. They stress the
importance of inclusion in everyday activities, no matter the ability level. They prove that kids of all
abilities enjoy exploring, learning, interacting, and having fun together.
Neighborhood / Pocket Parks
The defining characteristic of a pocket park is its size.
Although there is no strict definition, Pocket Parks are
generally recognized as public park spaces that occupy less
than one acre of land. In contrast to larger neighborhood or
regional parks that attract park goers from all around a
community. Pocket parks are built with the intention of
providing the community within the park’s immediate vicinity
with the benefits of a public park. Pocket parks use scaled
down features and recreational amenities to relay the same
benefits afforded by larger parks while occupying a fraction
of the space.19
Courtesy City of De
Pere
Potential amenities may include a small event space, play area for children, small splashpad,
basketball half-court, community garden, rain garden, skating rink, climbing wall, and rest and
reflection areas, among others.
Splash Pads
Courtesy City of Appleton
19 Excerpted from: Pocket Park Toolkit, The Trust for Public Land, 2019.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Courtesy Village of Cottage Grove
Splash pads are inclusive, cost-effective, and safe recreational spaces that allow people of all ages to
cool off and play. They offer an excellent, budget-friendly alternative to traditional swimming pools by
significantly lowering maintenance, staffing, and water consumption costs. They are accessible to
children and adults with mobility challenges, and they create a shared space where entire families can
enjoy the outdoors together.
Accessible Canoe/Kayak Launches
Accessible (or universal) launches help with a
smoother transition for all paddlers to get in and
out of the water providing a safe and stable
platform for launching canoes and kayaks. With
an easy-to-use transfer bench and transfer slide
boards, users can simply sit, slide over, and drop
down into a kayak or canoe and use durable side
rails to pull off or back on. Systems can be
floating or fixed in place similar to a dock or pier.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Bicycle Lanes
A bicycle lane is a portion of the roadway
designated for exclusive or preferential use by
bicyclists. Bicycle lanes are always one-way
facilities and are identified with pavement
markings and signing. On two-way streets, a
one-way bicycle lane should be provided on
each side. Bicycle lanes are the preferred bicycle
facility on higher volume roadways (i.e., collector
and arterial streets). They are generally
unnecessary on residential streets.
Courtesy
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
CORP map here
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Introduction
Funding
Courtesy WDNR
Introduction
A variety of funding sources are available for parks, open space, and trail projects. These include
impact fees, land dedication by property developers, federal and state grants and loans, and direct
expenditures from the general fund. Private sector fund raising is another important source of financial
support for outdoor recreation, particularly when recognition is offered in return for investment (naming
rights, signage, engraved brick pavers, etc.).
Local Funding Sources
General Fund
The primary sources of public park and recreation funding is the municipal general fund, primarily via
capital improvements planning. A Capital Improvements Plan (CIP) provides the means of planning for
major project costs by creating a multiyear schedule for physical public improvements based on the
projection of fiscal resources and planning priorities five years into the future. Capital items are
generally defined as those costing $5,000 or more and include new or expanded facilities that are
relatively large in size, expensive, and permanent. A parks and recreation oriented CIP can include
street improvements (e.g., widening, crosswalks, signalization, corridor studies, etc.), park acquisition
and improvements, pedestrian & bicycle facilities and more.
Park Impact Fees20
Wis. Stat. §§ 236.45 and 66.0617 provide for the collection of impact fees allowing Wisconsin
municipalities to pay for the anticipated capital costs associated with new development. Capital costs
refer to the one-time cost of constructing, expanding, or improving physical, public facilities such as
highways, sewage treatment systems, and outdoor recreation, among others. Prior to developing or
imposing an impact fee, a municipality must conduct a detailed needs assessment to determine the
portion of facility costs necessitated by the new development.
20 Source: Planning Implementation Tools: Impact Fees, UW Stevens Point Center for Land Use Education,
2008.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
The impact fee may not be used to pay for inadequacies in the current system. Rather than distributing
costs associated with new development among existing property owners (generally in the form of
increased property taxes), impact fees are collected from the developer or property owner at the time
of building permit. They also do not cover operational or maintenance costs, which can be significant
over the lifetime of a facility. Impact fees are commonly incorporated within a subdivision ordinance
and established in the fee schedule.
User Fees
Municipalities may impose user fees to offset the costs of park improvements, recreation programs,
and maintenance. These fees are discretionary and are typically established by the elected body. They
are more common to some outdoor recreation facilities than other (e.g., RV campgrounds, indoor
skate parks, aquatic centers, and the like). As per 2003 Wisconsin Act 34, user fees must bear a
reasonable relationship to the service for which the fee is imposed.
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Land & Water Conservation Fund
The Land & Water Conservation Fund is a federal program administered in all states that encourages
creation and interpretation of high-quality outdoor recreational opportunities. Funds received by the
WDNR for this program are split between WDNR projects and grants to local governments for outdoor
recreation activities. Grants cover 50% of eligible project costs.
Urban Forestry Grant
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources offers urban forestry grants to cities, villages, towns,
counties, tribes and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in or conducting projects in Wisconsin. These
grants fall into three categories: Regular grants, startup grants, and catastrophic storm grants.
Ø Regular Grants. Regular grants are competitive cost-share grants of up to $25,000. Grants are to
support new, innovative projects that will develop sustainable urban and community forestry
programs, not to subsidize routine forestry activities.
Ø Startup Grants. Startup grants are competitive cost-share grants of up to $5,000. These simplified
grants are available to communities that want to start or restart an urban forestry program.
Ø Catastrophic Storm Grants. Catastrophic storm grants fund tree repair, removal or replacement
within urban areas following a catastrophic storm event for which the governor has declared a
State of Emergency under Chapter 323.10, Wis. Stats.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Lake Management Grants
Eligible for municipalities that have approved management plan within five years of the year in which
the grant application is submitted for Lake Management Plan Implementation. Focus areas include lake
management planning, lake protection and classification, and aquatic invasive species control.
Wisconsin Department of Transportation
Transportation Alternatives Program
The Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) allocates federal funds to transportation improvement
projects that “expand travel choice, strengthen the local economy, improve the quality of life, and
protect the environment.” TAP was authorized in 2012 by federal transportation legislation, the Moving
Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP- 21). TAP combines three previously separate
programs: Safe Routes to School, Transportation Enhancements, and the Bicycle and Pedestrian
Facilities Program. Eligible projects include:
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Trail facilities for non-motorized transport.
Constructing safe routes for non-drivers.
Converting abandoned railroad corridors for non-motorized transportation.
Constructing turnouts, scenic overlooks, and viewing areas.
Community improvement activities.
Any environmental mitigation activity.
The Recreational Trails Program.
The Safe Routes to School Program.
Projects in the right of way of former interstate system routes or other divided highways.
All TAP projects are funded 80% federally with a 20% local match. Projects must be completed within
approximately six years or will risk loss of funding.
Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation
Community Development Investment Grant
The Community Development Investment Grant is administered by the Wisconsin Economic
Development Corporation. It supports urban, small city, and rural community redevelopment efforts by
providing financial incentives for shovel-ready projects with emphasis on, but not limited to, downtown
community-driven efforts. Grant recipients must demonstrate significant, measurable benefits in job
opportunities, property values, and/or leveraged investment by local and private partners. The grant is
available on a continual basis without specific application deadlines.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Private Organizations
PeopleForBikes Community Grant Program
The PeopleForBikes Community Grant Program supports bicycle infrastructure projects and targeted
advocacy initiatives that make it easier and safer for people of all ages and abilities to ride. Funds may
be used for projects such as:
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Bike paths, lanes, trails, and bridges.
Mountain bike facilities.
Bike parks and pump tracks.
BMX facilities.
End-of-trip facilities such as bike racks, bike parking, and bike storage.
Bike facility engineering and design work.
Bike facility construction costs including materials, labor, and equipment rental.
Grant requests may be made for amounts up to $10,000, but funding may not exceed 50% of the
project budget. Grant cycles are held one to two times per year.
Kodak American Greenways Program
The American Greenways Program is the nation’s longest running community based grant program
that expands and enhances our nation’s network of greenways, blueways, trails and natural areas. The
program is a partnership between Eastman Kodak Company, the National Geographic Society, and
The Conservation Fund.
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
Appendix
Courtesy Visit Kenosha Wisconsin
Table 8: Top 20 VPS Images
Rank
Rating
1
4.20
Image
51
Rank
Rating
2
4.18
Image
Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
3
4.17
4
4.04
5
4.03
6
3.96
7
3.94
8
3.92
9t
3.85
9t
3.85
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
11t
3.82
12t
3.82
13
3.81
14
3.78
15
3.74
16
3.72
17
3.71
18t
3.66
18t
3.66
20
3.65
21
3.58
22t
3.57
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
22t
3.57
22t
3.57
25
3.55
26
3.48
27t
3.47
28t
3.47
29
3.45
30
3.44
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
31
3.37
32t
3.33
33t
3.33
34
3.32
35t
3.30
36t
3.30
37
3.27
38
3.26
39
3.23
40t
3.20
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
41t
3.20
42t
3.19
43t
3.19
44
3.12
45
3.09
46
2.94
47
2.91
48
2.87
49t
2.82
50t
2.82
51t
2.79
52t
2.79
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Outdoor Recreation Plan 2027-31
53
2.73
54
2.71
55
2.70
56
2.67
57
2.62
58
2.59
59
2.55
60
2.19
57
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