Milwaukee County officials are taking urgent steps to address safety concerns at Bender Park, where access to Lake Michigan has been severely limited. During a recent hybrid meeting of the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors, a proposal was put forth to allocate $100,000 from contingency funds for dredging the park's boat launch, which has been deemed non-navigable and poses risks for emergency response.

The discussion highlighted the critical need for improved access following two drownings at the site last summer. Supervisor Wasserman emphasized the importance of timely action, noting that the inability to launch emergency vehicles could have dire consequences in urgent situations. "If there's an emergency on Lake Michigan, you can't get off. And if you want to get on Lake Michigan for emergency, you can't get on," he stated, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

Despite the pressing need, some supervisors expressed concerns about the temporary nature of the proposed dredging. Supervisor O'Connor called for more public input and suggested referring the matter to the parks committee for further discussion. However, others argued that delaying the decision could exacerbate safety risks, especially as the boating season progresses.

The board ultimately voted against the referral, allowing the proposal to move forward. The dredging is expected to take place this year, although it is recognized as a short-term fix. A more permanent solution, which involves replacing a failing break wall, is projected to cost between $6 million and $8 million and is included in the county's five-year capital improvement plan.

As the board navigates these discussions, the focus remains on ensuring safe access to Lake Michigan for both recreational users and emergency services. The urgency of the situation reflects a broader commitment to addressing public safety and infrastructure needs in Milwaukee County.