PRESCOTT – The Prescott City Council has dotted its I’s and crossed its T’s and will now need to wait until May or June 2026 for a funding decision from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation 2026-2030 Transportation Alternatives Program for the Highway 10 project.

Dec. 10, the council approved a resolution showing its support for the TAP grant application to construct a 100-foot pedestrian bridge over USH 10, approximately 500 feet east of Canton Street, along with approach ramps and significant sidewalk and multi-use trail connections throughout the project area. These improvements would connect schools, neighborhoods, and existing pedestrian facilities, enhancing overall mobility and safety for students and residents. The TAP program funds up to 80% of project costs, with the city responsible for the 20% local match.

The resolution also authorizes the city to accept the award and enter into all necessary agreements if the grant is approved. This is the final step needed for the funding application to be considered.

City Administrator Matt Wolf provided the council with a refresher on the background. In October 2023, the council approved hiring Cedar Corporation to work with staff to submit a grant application through TAP.

“The city had heard from residents the need to enhance non-motorized transportation options to improve safety and connectivity for bicyclists and pedestrians crossing US Highway 10 and State Highways 29/35,” a city memo states. “The aim of TAP is to provide safe crossings and trails that connect local schools and businesses.”

Project details of the approved grant include:

• To conduct a planning study that explores trail and crossing enhancements for nonmotorized access at Highways 10 and 29/35 and Canton Street.
• The project is eligible for 80% federal funding through TAP, up to a maximum of $194,106.06. The City of Prescott will be responsible for the remaining 20%, estimated at $48,526.50.

At its Oct. 27, 2025 meeting, the council reviewed three design options and selected a preferred alternative for submission to the Wisconsin DOT Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) for design and construction funding. The selected option includes closing the Orrin Road connection to Campbell Street on the east side to allow a crosswalk to pass safely through the signalized intersection. This configuration also allows “vehicle stacking” on Campbell Street and removes the need to create a traffic gap for Orrin Road through traffic.

The city submitted the grant by the Nov. 1 deadline.

Other business

• The council passed a resolution accepting the public improvements for the Great Rivers Second Addition development.
• The developer of senior housing at 445 Court St. has requested altering their concept plan to include underground parking. The plan commission will review the proposal at its Jan. 5 meeting.
• The council approved a Class B Beer and Class C Wine license for 202 Broad St., future home of The Corner Italian, which plans to open in January. It will replace Papa Tronnio’s on the corner of Orange and Broad streets.
• The Dec. 22 city council meeting has been canceled due to the holiday week.
• 2026 Spring Election packets are available for nominees at City Hall. They are due at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 6.