In the heart of Milwaukee County, a pressing issue has emerged from the depths of Bender Park's boat launch, where safety and accessibility hang in the balance. During a recent Committee on Finance meeting, officials voiced their frustrations over delays in dredging the launch, a project initially budgeted at $800,000 for 2024. As summer progresses, the project remains uncompleted, raising concerns about public safety on Lake Michigan.

Supervisor Taylor highlighted the urgency of the situation, recalling the tragic drownings that occurred last summer at Bender Park. He emphasized the need for a functional boat launch, stating, “People need to be able to get on and off Lake Michigan.” The dredging is not merely a maintenance task; it is a critical health and safety measure for the community. The launch site has become increasingly shallow due to sediment buildup, limiting emergency responders' access and posing risks to swimmers.

Sarah Toomsen, director of planning for the parks department, elaborated on the safety concerns, explaining that the launch's design complicates navigation for emergency services. “If there should be a need for emergency responders to get into a boat... navigation is extremely limited,” she noted. The situation is exacerbated by the formation of a new beach within the stone jetty, further complicating access.

Despite the urgency, the project has faced setbacks, including over-budget bids and permitting delays. The committee discussed reallocating $100,000 from a previous project to help fund the dredging, but an additional $241,000 is still needed to move forward. Taylor expressed his determination to see the project completed, stating, “We need to get this done.”

As the meeting concluded, the committee was left grappling with the implications of these delays. The dredging project at Bender Park is not just about maintaining a recreational facility; it is about ensuring the safety of the community and preserving access to the natural beauty of Lake Michigan. With the summer season in full swing, the urgency to act has never been clearer.