The Situation
Northern Door County communities have long envisioned a trail system that would safely connect Egg Harbor, Fish Creek, Ephraim, and Sister Bay. With limited rural roads and growing traffic on State Highway 42, walking or biking between communities can be difficult, and a fully connected off-road trail between the communities does not currently exist.

What is the “fix,” and how does it benefit the community?
The Town of Gibraltar has received funding for a proposed multi-use trail segment connecting Fish Creek and Ephraim. The project would pass through Fish Creek Park, Gibraltar Schools, and Peninsula State Park. The proposed trail would give people another option for traveling between destinations without relying on a car for every trip. Town and trail officials have also said the project could help reduce traffic congestion and move cyclists, runners, and participants in organized events off busy roadways, improving safety and enjoyment for trail and road users.

The broader Bayshore Connectivity Trail is envisioned as a roughly 16-mile multi-use trail that would improve connections for residents, visitors, students, and seasonal workers while providing access to jobs, schools, parks, and small businesses.

What makes the investment possible?
The Town of Gibraltar was awarded a $4,740,640 Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality grant from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. The grant is for approximately 25 percent of the envisioned regional trail system, specifically the connection between Fish Creek and Ephraim, and will be available for four years.

What’s next?
During the four-year grant period, Town of Gibraltar officials expect a construction plan for the Fish Creek-to-Ephraim segment to be developed. That work is expected to include designing the path, assigning people to the project, and hiring construction firms.

The segment represents one step toward the broader Bayshore Connectivity Trail vision, a roughly 16-mile multi-use trail connecting Egg Harbor, Fish Creek, Ephraim, and Sister Bay. The completed feasibility study provides a foundation for future funding, partnerships, and implementation of the larger trail system.