SHULLSBURG — The City of Shullsburg is proud to announce the launch of a community-wide fundraising campaign to raise $1.5 million for the long-anticipated renovation of Badger Park, a cornerstone of local recreation, high school athletics, family gatherings, and outdoor enjoyment. Badger Park is a source of small-town pride in Shullsburg that has been used by four generations of families and children. Uniquely, as a city park, it hosts not only high school athletics, but the athletic field serves athletes from t-ball to semi-professional.
Even more important than its history, Badger Park is a fundamental part of Shullsburg’s future. The ambitious renovation project will revitalize the park in order to maximize its potential and ensure the facilities accommodate future generations. This project will benefit the community in meaningful ways — from promoting wellness and outdoor activity to attracting visitors and enhancing Shullsburg’s quality of life.
Key features of the renovation are aimed at making the park a safer and more vibrant space, while still maintaining the parks historic charm. The proposed upgrades are essential to maintaining its long-term recreational function. The project will include:
● Improved ADA-accessible walking paths
● New baseball/softball dugouts
● Athletic field stormwater management improvements
● Renovated shelter houses and concession stand space
● New baseball/softball backstop and fencing
● New baseball/softball scoreboard
● New LED stadium lights
● Renovated/accessible Mine & Museum restrooms
The campaign, titled “Keep the Story Going — Support the Next Chapter of Badger Park” is seeking support from individuals, families, businesses, and local organizations through tax-deductible monetary and in-kind donations. The City of Shullsburg is committed to preserving Badger Park as a vibrant public asset, and has pledged the first $500,000 towards the project. Naming opportunities are available if you want to recognize your family or business. Gifts can be pledged over 3 years.
To kick off the campaign, the city has chosen to use the 100 Extraordinary Women fundraising platform. We are seeking a minimum of 100 women to each donate $1000 which can be pledged over 5 years ($200 per year or $18 per month). All women who participate, or people who want to honor or remember a special woman in their lives, will have recognition in the park.
The fundraising effort is a partnership between the City of Shullsburg and Advance Shullsburg, a registered 501(c)(3) not for profit organization whose mission is to make Shullsburg a destination for businesses and visitors and to promote and inspire investment within it. All gifts are tax deductible to the fullest extent possible. The City of Shullsburg would like to thank all of the generous donors who have made gifts so far, as well as those who have given of their time to make this campaign possible. The anticipated construction start date is July 5, 2026 with completion expected in Spring of 2027, as the city celebrates its bicentennial year.
Anyone can donate online at www.advanceshullsburg.org/badgerpark, by mail, or in person at the City Clerk’s office in the Shullsburg Community Townsend Center. Every dollar counts—and every contribution brings us one step closer to ensuring Badger Park remains a beautiful, welcoming space for all.
For more information on how to contribute or get involved, visit www.advanceshullsburg.org/badgerpark or contact Janelle Schumacher, City Clerk/Treasurer, at 608-965-4424 or clerktreasurer@cityofshullsburg.org
About the City of Shullsburg
Established in 1827, Shullsburg is the third oldest city in the state of Wisconsin. The Wisconsin Badger mascot traces its lineage here with the early miners. Today, Wisconsin cheese continues its long tradition here and is our biggest industry. As we approach our 200th anniversary, we invite you to be part of all Shullsburg has to offer.
