Big Bay/Buckley Park Now Partially Open

Aerial image via Kevin Buckley

After months of repairs, Big Bay and Buckley Park is once again partially open to the public for the first time in nearly a year.

Village president Kevin Buckley announced on Facebook that an official announcement is coming that the walking path and stairway access to the beach are now available for use, just in time for spring and summer walks by the lake.

The upper grassy area, while freshly sodded and looking great, will remain fenced off for a few more weeks as construction crews wrap up final restoration work.

Please note: Palisades Road remains closed to vehicle traffic at the south end during this time.

Background on the Repairs

Sewer repair at Big Bay and Buckley Park

Big Bay Park and Buckley Park closed until further notice while the Village managed emergency construction activities, due to a storm sewer outfall collapse that occurred on Sunday, June 9, 2024.

This reopening follows a major infrastructure repair stemming from the critical storm sewer failure that put the park—and the bluff itself—at risk. The section of the stormwater outfall system beneath Buckley Park failed, leading to significant concerns around public safety, bluff erosion, and the capacity of the sewer system.

A temporary and smaller system was installed to maintain drainage, but it posed risks during winter months due to freezing, and it lacked the original 60" pipe's hydraulic capacity.

The Village of Whitefish Bay initiated an emergency response that included:

• Planning meetings with engineers and construction managers.

• A trenchless tunnel rehabilitation, new structural concrete installations, and full restoration of the bluff and hardscape.

• Installation of a new drop manhole and decommissioning of the temporary system.

The full project was completed in phases from fall 2024 through spring 2025. Final landscaping and restoration work is expected to be finished soon, and the full park will reopen at that time. A full history of the project can be found online from Whitefish Bay.

This repair was one of the most complex infrastructure efforts in recent village history, with an estimated cost between $4.7 to $5.7 million. The result is a long-term stormwater solution designed to last 100 years—with minimal bluff disruption and maximum safety.

More details and an official post will be shared soon by the Village. In the meantime, enjoy the path and beach access—and thank you for your patience during this extensive and essential project.