Oshkosh’s Menominee Park unveiled a brand‑new trackless train this summer, and the community response has been overwhelming. City officials report that the train carried just over 25,000 riders, roughly twice the number logged by the former on‑rails system.

Family‑friendly success

“It was a great great season, we had just over 25,000 riders this summer so families definitely loved it and came down to take a ride,” said Revenue and Facilities Manager Jen McCollian. The train also sold 614 family passes, indicating that many visitors returned for multiple trips.

Positioned at the park entrance, across from the playground and a short walk from the beach, the train’s new route makes it easy for families to combine a ride with a visit to the nearby zoo. “Now the train is right by the entrance to the zoo and right across the street from the playground, and just even a half a block from where the beach is,” explained Bill Wyman, President and CEO of the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation.

Lower costs, higher reliability

City staff say the shift from rails to a trackless system has dramatically reduced maintenance expenses. “That track, it was really hard to maintain,” McCollian noted. “An old train is hard to maintain. As far as the maintenance values and stuff, those were much lower for us. So we hope it only goes up from here.”

The previous on‑rails train faced budget constraints that nearly forced its closure last year. A student‑initiated GoFundMe campaign helped keep the attraction alive for one more season, but the $100,000 trackless train was ultimately funded entirely by private donors through the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation.

Beyond the summer season

Unlike the former train, the new vehicle will remain in service after Labor Day, providing year‑round access for park visitors. City planners also announced that the train will take part in Oshkosh’s Christmas Parade later this month, adding a festive element to the holiday celebration.

Local leaders view the train’s success as a model for how public‑private partnerships can enhance community amenities while preserving fiscal responsibility. The project demonstrates that thoughtful investment in family‑oriented recreation can boost both quality of life and municipal efficiency.

Original reporting: FOX 11 WLUK Green Bay (local) — read the source article.