October 8, 2025

Small Cities Can Do Big Things

Big news for our community:  Two Rivers has been selected as one of just 25 small and rural communities in the nation to participate in the Recreation Economy for Rural Communities (RERC) program, a federal initiative led by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and other national agencies.

This program helps communities like ours leverage outdoor recreation to grow local economies, revitalize downtowns, and protect natural resources. Through RERC, a federal planning team will partner with the City and local stakeholders to strengthen capacity, guide strategy, and identify new opportunities that link outdoor recreation with economic growth.

For Two Rivers, the focus areas are ambitious and meaningful:

• Controlling shoreline erosion and improving water quality to protect our treasured lakefront.

• Re-envisioning Downtown Two Rivers as an outdoor recreation hub, with stronger connections between the watershed, regional trails, and Main Street.

• Supporting local businesses that serve outdoor enthusiasts.

• Expanding year-round recreation options for both residents and visitors.

This national recognition shines a light on what we already know, Two Rivers is a community defined by its natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and commitment to sustainability. Being part of this federal program will help us strengthen our local economy while preserving the lakeshore we love for generations to come.

Council Approves Next Step in Pavilion Renovation at Neshotah Beach

City decides to look into details for a fresh look, more restrooms, and modern amenities for the beloved building. 

Big improvements could be on the horizon at Neshotah Beach. The Two Rivers City Council has approved moving forward with design and bidding for major upgrades to the Neshotah Beach pavilion and concessions building, with a budget not to exceed $450,000, but a clear direction to keep the project as financially prudent as possible.

The 1950s-era pavilion is one of the most frequently used buildings in the City, serving thousands of visitors each summer. Planned improvements include:

• Doubling restroom capacity with added ADA-accessible unisex restrooms and family changing rooms.

• Modernizing the concession area with new equipment and layout to support a wider variety of food service options.

• Durable interior finishes like epoxy floors and easy-to-clean materials designed for heavy summer use.

• Utility upgrades for plumbing, electrical, and ventilation systems.

• Potential shelter enhancements, such as retractable screens and heaters, to extend the picnic area’s seasonal use.

The project reflects growing demand for better facilities as Neshotah Beach continues to draw both residents and visitors from across the region.

City staff will now advance the project through design development, competitive bidding, and grant or partner funding opportunities ahead of the 2026 construction season. The project will return to the City Council for another look in early 2026. Nothing is final until then.

Together with the recently approved paid parking pilot program, these plans reflect the City’s ongoing commitment to keeping Neshotah Beach beautiful, functional, and financially sustainable.

Paid Parking Pilot Coming to

Neshotah Beach in 2026

Helping keep the beach clean, safe, and sustainable

— one parking space at a time.

This week, the Two Rivers City Council approved a Paid Parking Pilot Program for Neshotah Beach, set to launch in summer 2026.

The idea is simple: gather real-world data on beach parking while starting to shift a portion of maintenance costs from taxpayers to the thousands of visitors who enjoy our beaches each summer.

The pilot will test a $10 per day parking fee in just two of the busiest beach lots (Lots 2 and 3) for 10 peak days next season. Parking will remain free along Zlatnik Drive, Pierce Street, and in Parking Lots 1, 4, and 5. 

The City is testing a model that’s simple, fair, and focused on long-term sustainability. The goal isn’t to nickel-and-dime anyone, it’s to make sure Neshotah Beach continues to be clean, accessible, and welcoming for everyone.

All funds raised through the pilot will go directly back into beach operations and maintenance, thus reducing the burden of property taxes to pay for the beach. Results from the 2026 trial will help guide future decisions about beach parking and funding strategies.

Congratulations Heather Ihlenfeldt!

Two Rivers is home to some truly incredible people — and this month, one of our own has been recognized across the entire state.

Senior Center Supervisor Heather Ihlenfeldt, who leads the team at the Two Rivers Senior Center, has been honored with the Wisconsin Association of Senior Centers’ Rising Star Award! This award recognizes emerging leaders in senior services who go above and beyond to support older adults in their communities — and Heather embodies that spirit every single day.

But that’s not all. Under Heather’s leadership, the Two Rivers Senior Center has successfully renewed its State accreditation — a rigorous process that happens only once every six years. Accreditation ensures that our programs, services, and operations meet the highest standards of excellence for senior centers across Wisconsin.

This marks the first accreditation renewal under Heather’s direction, and it’s a shining example of her dedication, compassion, and commitment to making the Senior Center a welcoming, enriching place for everyone who walks through its doors.

Congratulations, Heather — your hard work and heart make Two Rivers a better place for all generations!

Upcoming Events

Van der Brohe Arboretum will host its annual Garden Wine Walk starting at 3:00pm Saturday, October 11th. Stroll the scenic grounds and stop at nine Franciscan Garden stations to sample local wines and appetizers. 

A peaceful, picturesque way to experience the arboretum in fall! 

At 6:00pm, a bonfire will be lit. 

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