Originally published in the Ozaukee County News Graphic on May 22, 2025
The Mequon-Thiensville Community Foundation presented Restoring Lands — formerly Ozaukee Washington Land Trust & River Revitalization Foundation — with a $49,059 check toward construction of the new connector trail between Spirit Lake Nature Preserve and Pukaite Woods at Rotary Park.
The funds were donated via a paddle raise at the 2024 Pillars of the Community Luncheon. Construction is underway with completion slated for early August 2025.
“From the generosity of our 2024 Pillars of the Community attendees, we raised 63% of the project cost. This allowed the project to move full steam ahead,” MTCF President Lori Lorenz said. “We are thrilled to turn our donors’ passion of enhancing our community into reality.”
Organizers noted that this project was a longtime dream for former Mequon Mayor Connie Pukaite, as both properties boast hiking trails, wetlands, a broad range of outdoor recreational activities, and are home to an array of native plant and animal species.
The trail system will offer more than 3.5 miles of walking trails right in the heart of Mequon.
“Restoring Lands is deeply grateful to Connie Pukaite and the Mequon-Thiensville Community Foundation for envisioning and providing seed funding for the new connector trail,” Restoring Lands Executive Director Tom Stolp added. “The new trail invites visitors to spend extended time in nature among forest, prairie and wetland ecosystems, conveniently located in the middle of Mequon.”
According to MTCF, it has awarded over $1.3 million to enhance the quality of life within both Mequon and Thiensville. The funds given have focused on parks and recreation, municipalities and historical endeavors.
To learn more about the foundation, where to donate or how to become involved, go to mtcfgives.org.
