Funds support outdoor recreation in Weyauwega

By Angie Landsverk

Howard Quimby has donated more funds to the city of Weyauwega for outdoor recreational purposes.

His $20,000 donation is going toward the cost of developing a paved, handicap accessible trail for the city’s new kayak/canoe launch.

“The city is so very fortunate to have such a dedicated and caring resident that takes great pride in the community,” said City Administrator Jeremy Schroeder. “He has served as mayor, scout leader and unselfishly has given a tremendous amount of monetary donations to the city to support outdoor recreation in the last year. We are so grateful and extend our deepest thank you and appreciation to Mr. Quimby for all of his support and dedication to the city of Weyauwega.”

Schroeder shared the news of Quimby’s donation during last month’s common council meeting.
Quimby called Schroeder in mid-December, and asked if the council had approved the city’s 2021 budget.

“He wanted to know specifics,” Schroeder told the council.

Schroeder said Quimby was glad to see what was budgeted for recreation.

Quimby then told Schroeder he wanted to give the city $20,000 for recreation and the outdoors.

Since Quimby did not have a specific area in mind, Schroeder asked him if the donation could be put toward the trail development project.

Canoe launch

Constructing a new handicap accessible kayak/canoe launch is one of the city’s top recreational projects.

The current access point to the Waupaca River in Weyauwega is not handicap accessible.

Last fall, the common council approved the kayak/canoe launch as part of the city’s 2021 capital improvement projects.

The park where the kayak/canoe launch is planned is located off Old Mill Street by the dam.

The project involves replacing the city’s current access point to the Waupaca River, which has no dock.

The estimated cost of the launch itself is $31,000, and the city budgeted that amount as part of this year’s capital projects.

Completion is planned this year.

The trail portion of the overall project was dependent on other financial resources.

The city is seeking a grant to help fund the cost of that part of the project.

If the city receives the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Recreational Boating Facilities Grant, it covers 35% of the cost of the trail.

Schroeder said the trail plan continues to be finalized.

Quimby’s donation allows the city to move forward with the planning.

Quimby’s third donation to city

In late 2019, Quimby donated $25,000 for an accessible fishing area for youth and those who are handicapped.

It was developed along the park that is off State Highway 110, by the bridge.

The fishing pier runs parallel to Mill Street, from the bridge to the north.

Quimby donated another $5,000 for that project early last year, after learning the cost of the proposal.

His donation covered the cost of the fishing pier and the landscaping.

Mayor Jack Spierings said the city appreciates what Quimby has done for the city.