Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) will temporarily close some recreation areas around its Merrill hydroelectric power plant beginning May 6 to safely perform needed maintenance work. The closure will take place through early June, and includes a portion of the River Bend Trail along the Wisconsin River and the fishing pier downstream of the dam.
WPS is repaving and installing new asphalt in areas around the hydroelectric facility’s powerhouse and substation. The maintenance work will ensure WPS employees can continue to safely access the facility in the future.
The portion of the River Bend Trail being closed is from the Center Avenue bridge to the western side of the hydroelectric facility’s powerhouse. During construction, an alternate trail route will be set up slightly north of the trail segment that is closed. Signs will be posted along the trail and at the fishing pier with information about the temporary closure.
WPS expects to complete construction and reopen the recreation areas around its Merrill hydroelectric power plant in early June.