Bill > AB694

This bill modifies Wisconsin state law to allow certain government entities, such as county boards, village boards, and the Department of Transportation, to use the power of condemnation (legally forcing the sale of private property for public use) to acquire land for establishing or extending recreational trails, bicycle ways or lanes, and pedestrian ways. Currently, state law prohibits the use of condemnation for these specific purposes. The bill removes previous language that restricted the use of condemnation for trail and pathway development across multiple sections of state statutes, effectively giving local and state governments more flexibility in acquiring land for transportation and recreational infrastructure. By eliminating these restrictions, the bill aims to make it easier for government entities to create and expand trail networks, potentially improving public access to recreational spaces and alternative transportation routes. The changes apply to future condemnation proceedings where the property title has not already been transferred to the government.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2025/proposals/reg/asm/bill/ab694