Oshkosh, WI – The city’s newest attraction, a trackless train that began operating at Menominee Park earlier this year, has quickly become a favorite for families. Revenue and Facilities Manager Jen McCollian reported that the train logged just over 25,000 riders during the summer, a figure that “definitely shows families loved it and came down to take a ride.”
Ridership and repeat customers
In addition to the high rider count, the park sold 614 family passes, indicating that many visitors returned for multiple trips. “Those people were kind of repeat customers throughout the summer,” McCollian said, highlighting the train’s role in encouraging repeat visits to the park and surrounding attractions.
From rails to wheels: cost savings and operational benefits
The switch from the old on‑rails train to a modern trackless system has delivered tangible savings. McCollian explained that the previous rail infrastructure was “really hard to maintain,” and the aging train required frequent repairs. By removing the rails, the city has reduced maintenance expenses, allowing more resources to be directed toward programming and park improvements. “As far as the maintenance values and stuff, those were much lower for us,” she added, expressing optimism that the cost trend will continue to improve.
Community support and funding
The $100,000 train was funded entirely by private donors through the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation. Foundation President and CEO Bill Wyman noted the strategic placement of the train near the zoo entrance, the playground, and the lakefront beach, creating a seamless experience for visitors. “It’s all combined right together, it makes it much more accessible and it makes the park look like there’s a whole lot going on,” Wyman said.
Future plans and seasonal continuity
Unlike the previous rail‑bound version, which was slated for closure last year due to budget constraints, the trackless train will remain in service beyond the traditional summer season. The city has announced that the train will participate in Oshkosh’s Christmas Parade later this month, extending its visibility and community impact into the holiday period.
Local impact and family recreation
City officials view the train’s success as a testament to the value of investing in family‑friendly amenities that reinforce community bonds. By offering a free, easy‑to‑access ride that connects key park features, the trackless train supports the city’s broader goal of providing safe, wholesome recreation for families while preserving fiscal responsibility.
Overall, the Menominee Park trackless train exemplifies how thoughtful public‑private partnerships and smart infrastructure choices can enhance quality of life for residents, boost tourism, and safeguard municipal budgets.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
