Groundbreaking Ceremony Launches Major Improvements at Mendota County Park
April 30, 2025
execmedia@danecounty.gov, 608-800-1127
County Executive, Land & Water Resources
The park is set for major revitalization through public and philanthropic partnership
MADISON - The Foundation for Dane County Parks and Dane County Parks hosted a groundbreaking ceremony yesterday at Mendota County Park to kick-off construction on a multi-million-dollar park improvement made possible by philanthropic support in honor of Karen and Tom Ragatz.
Karen and Tom Ragatz - beloved members of the Dane County community who passed away in 2021 - will leave a lasting legacy at Mendota County Park. Tom, a respected attorney and civic leader, and Karen, a dedicated educator and volunteer, gave selflessly to countless causes throughout their lives. Their deep love for their community and tireless investment in its people will be reflected in this park revitalization project, which will serve as a lasting tribute to their values, generosity, and the joy they brought to so many.
“Mendota County Park has long been a beloved part of the community, and these improvements will help ensure it remains a vibrant, welcoming space where families gather and neighbors connect,” said Dane County Executive Melissa Agard. “This revitalization project will breathe new life into a space that means so much to so many.”
“We are deeply grateful to the Ragatz family and community donors for their generous support honoring Karen and Tom’s incredible legacy,” said Tom Wilson, President of the Foundation for Dane County Parks. “Their lifelong commitment to community, public service, and the environment has touched countless lives, and this project ensures their spirit will continue to inspire and bring people together for generations to come.”
In 2016, Dane County Parks completed a Master Plan for Mendota County Park, incorporating input from the public, stakeholders, neighbors, and staff. The plan assessed the park’s existing conditions and outlined recommendations for future improvements. The full Master Plan is available here: https://www.danecountyparks.com/MasterPlans/detail/Mendota-Master-Plan
Mendota County Park is one of the oldest Dane County Parks, established in 1951. The 19-acre park features a campground, a reservable shelter, an unsupervised beach, volleyball and basketball courts, playground equipment, and a shallow launch for small boats, kayaks and canoes.
More than $1.6 million in philanthropic support, alongside $1 million in county funding, will be invested in the following improvements:
- Replacement of the existing park shelter
- Installation of a new accessible and inclusive playground
- Addition of a paved walking trail
- Rehabilitation of the basketball court
- Reconstruction of parking areas to improve circulation, accessibility, and stormwater management
Construction will begin in May 2025, with completion scheduled for Fall 2025. More details, including the full project plan can be viewed here: https://lwrd.danecounty.gov/CurrentProjects/Detail/Mendota-County-Park-Improvements
Mendota County Park will be closed for the duration of construction. This full closure includes the campground, shelter, restrooms, beach, and lake access. To stay informed about this closure or receive updates on other Dane County Parks properties, sign up for notifications here: https://www.danecounty.gov/Account/Login?ReturnUrl=%2fparksnotifications
About the Foundation for Dane County Parks
The Foundation for Dane County Parks is the philanthropic non-profit partner of Dane County Parks.
Since formation in 2017, the Foundation has raised more than $4 million to support Dane County Parks programs and improvements. The Foundation supports Dane County Parks so that park users can experience the beauty and benefits of nature. The Foundation also plays a central role in raising funds for the Friends of Dane County Parks Endowment Fund, to ensure long-term financial support for Dane County Parks.
About Dane County Parks
Dane County Parks manages over 18,000 acres of land that features the best of Wisconsin’s natural beauty. Our Parks do not require an entry fee and offer countless opportunities to get away from it all to unwind, spend time outdoors, and make memories with friends and family. Dane County Parks takes an active role to enhance and preserve the county’s finest natural resources. We strive to create welcoming spaces, events and educational opportunities for park visitors of all backgrounds and ability levels.