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City Manager's Weekly Update 12/12/2025: Free Transit for Kids, Storm Response, 2026 Road Projects, Winter Recreation Kick Off

Post Date:12/13/2025 8:19 AM

 

Hello City of Eau Claire employees, residents, and Council Members –

Here are some updates from around Eau Claire. Note that prior updates can be found here, and you can use these linked forms to send feedback to the City Manager’s Office or City Council.

City Manager Stephanie Hirsch

 

CITY UPDATES

Free Transit Rides for Kids/Teens in 2026: We are excited to announce a new Transit opportunity for 2026! As part of next year’s budget, we have funded free rides for children 18 and under (plus young adults enrolled in High School). Though we are in a serious budget crunch, we were able to do this because fare revenue from children is very low. Thus, we can remove a barrier without much of an impact on our budget. It’s our hope that helping young people take our buses will cultivate a new generation of Transit enthusiasts, reduce transportation costs for households, and/or the relieve parents/guardians of the time it takes to transport kids.

Here are some Q&As:

  • Who can ride for free? Any young person (or young adult who is still enrolled in high school) can ride for free.
  • Do children need to show some kind of pass? Younger children can board without showing a pass or ID, while high school students will be asked to show a student ID.
  • What routes serve Eau Claire Area Schools? All ECASD high schools and middle schools (as well as Altoona) can be reached by a Transit route. Take a look at the map below that shows all routes that serve schools. That said, there are some cases where the schedules may not align really well, and we will continue to work on increasing the connectivity between Transit and schools. Both DeLong and North have “express” routes that primarily serve students at those two schools.
  • Does this policy cover the Northern Lite service as well? During its pilot period, through the summer of 2026, Northern Lite will also be free for young people. Children ages 13 and up can ride on their own. More information is here: Northern Lite | On-demand shared rides around Eau Claire
  • Can youth ride anywhere, or just to school? They can ride anywhere! The new policy is effectively a revision of our current age-based fare policy. (Currently, children over pre-school age need to pay… As of January 1st, children of all ages will ride for free.)
  • What’s the cost for adults riding with children or youth? Adults will pay their fares, while children will be free.

We will be sharing more information as we roll out this policy change. Please feel free to contact us with questions and suggestions. Contact Transit at (715) 839-5111 or transit@eauclairewi.gov. Or, stop by the Transfer Center lobby! Pictured below are a flier for the new fares, plus a route map showing schools.

Fare Free Poster

Schools Served by Eau Claire Transit (1)

Continuing Snowy Weather: Our staff were very busy this week responding to the impacts of the stormy weather, with cold weather challenges underway as well. Here is some information from our staff who handle the response, like Streets and Fleet Manager Aaron Nicholson.

More Snow: After a snowy Thanksgiving, the snow continued to fall this week and hasn’t yet had a chance to melt….

  • On Monday through Tuesday, we saw an inch of snow. Overnight, two plow trucks salted hills and the downtown area. And then a crew of 13 came in at 3:30AM to complete ice route operations and plow and sand the secondary streets. 
  • Then on Tuesday through Wednesday, there was a significant storm event, which turned into 5.6 inches of fresh snow throughout the City. According to Aaron, “This event became a bit complex due to the timing of the snow. Shortly after midnight, we had all the ice routes completed and curbed up, and we were planning to plow the secondary streets. Unfortunately, around 2AM, another batch of snow moved through town, and we had to shift our focus back on the ice routes. Once the snow finally stopped around 4AM, we finished ice route operations and moved into a full residential plow operation.

We had 52 staff working as plow operators, mechanics, supervisors, and admin staff to tackle the fresh snow. Due to the quantity of snow, it took a bit to get everything plowed. Our wonderful staff worked tirelessly through event, so that we had all streets plowed and sanded by 9PM on Wednesday evening. To follow up the storm, we brought 13 operators in on Thursday morning to clean up areas where cars were parked due to odd/even parking. We did this again on Friday morning with six operators.”

Aaron shared this note: “I want to take this moment to recognize all of the City staff involved with this snow operation. Thank you to the Street Division staff who worked all hours of the day and night to keep the main roads open and then complete a full plow, the Fleet staff who worked around the clock to keep all of the trucks operating during breakdowns, the Parks and Utilities staff who helped with the full plow operation, and the admin staff from multiple divisions and departments who answered phone calls and emails with requests from our residents. It is so neat to see all of the staff come together to accomplish such a big task, and I couldn't be more proud!” 

Parking Challenges: Some parts of the City – notably Randall Park – had poor compliance with alternate side parking restrictions. This creates significant challenges with snow removal. When cars are not moved, plows have to return to the areas to clean up the remaining snow. Aaron shared that when vehicles have not moved for 24-hours, the PD can ticket and potentially tow the vehicle. (By local ordinance, vehicles may not remain in the same place for more than 24 hours.) Pictured below is a vehicle that was not parked properly, resulting in the inability to clear snow. (Winter parking policies can be found here: EauClaireWI.gov/AlternateSideParking)

Parking Violations

Anticipated Cold: A Cold Weather Advisory is in effect for this weekend. As part of our participation in a regional extreme weather plan, the City provides fare-free transit when the National Weather Service issues an "Extreme Cold Watch or Warning", or a "Cold Weather Advisory" (For more information, see here: Understanding Cold Weather Alerts, and below.) Other steps are taken by regional partners as well, such as extension of hours of operation at day and night-time shelters that serve people who are unhoused.

Here's what the Advisories recommend doing in order to stay safe during these events:

  • "Extreme Cold Warning: Take Action! An Extreme Cold Warning is issued when extremely dangerous cold conditions or wind chill values are expected or occurring. If you are in an area with an Extreme Cold Warning, avoid going outside. If you have to go outside, dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and make sure at least one other person knows your whereabouts. Update them when you arrive safely at your destination.
  • Extreme Cold Watch: Be Prepared. An Extreme Cold Watch is issued when extremely dangerous cold conditions or wind chill values are possible, but the occurrence, location, and/or timing is still uncertain. As with a Warning, adjust your plans to avoid being outside during the coldest parts of the day. Make sure your car has at least half a tank of gas, and update your winter survival kit.
  • Cold Weather Advisory: Be Aware. A Cold Weather Advisory is issued for dangerously cold conditions that are not expected to reach warning criteria. Be sure you and your loved ones dress appropriately and cover exposed skin when venturing outdoors."

Our regional Public Health Emergency Preparedness Specialist shared some reminders, including a request that residents check on neighbors. The image below reads "Remember that isolated or elderly people can be unaware of rapidly changing weather conditions and may not be able to sense or respond to low temperatures."

Check on your neighbors_WIDHS

Calls for Service: Our Police and Fire Departments saw busy days this week responding to car crashes and disabled vehicles. Deputy Fire Chief Bob Haller shared: “As of Friday morning, the Fire Department has responded 11 motor vehicle crashes. With more winter weather approaching, we anticipate a few more due to slick road conditions.” Please be sure to give these situations plenty of room. Note that our first responders are out in the snow and frigid air as they respond to calls, and these long, cold days can be exhausting. Pictured below are how the incidents appear in the departmental daily reports.

FD Crashes

PD Crashes

Structure Fire: The Fire Department also reported on a structure fire this week. This is the City’s 39th Structure Fire this year and the Fire Department's 49th Structure Fire in total. (This also unfortunately added a red bulb to this year’s fire prevention holiday wreath.)

The Fire Department reported: “The Eau Claire Fire Department responded to a structure fire on December 12th on the near East side of the City on Cass Street. On arrival, fire crews found smoke coming from the attic vents of the residence. Crews immediately began searches for fire and to ensure all occupants were out. All levels of the home were searched, and it was found that all occupants had evacuated.

Fire was located in the attic space and was extinguished quickly, while the remainder of the attic was investigated to check for fire extension. The home was ventilated to remove smoke, and fire damaged debris was removed from the residence. No injuries were reported. The Red Cross was contacted to assist the occupants with temporary housing needs. The ECPD and EC Communications Center assisted during the incident.” Pictured below is an image from WEAU's reporting on the fire.

Cass Fire

Notable Police Case Log: And here is a sample of what our Police Department tackled in recent days. View the full case log here: PD News | City of Eau Claire, Wisconsin Many calls were related to substance misuse, including these two below. And there were a high number of domestic-related incidents. These types of calls often are higher in the winter and near the holidays.

On the North Side, “Officers checked on a vehicle that had violated a red traffic light and slid into the median. The driver was contacted and appeared intoxicated. They refused to perform SFSTs and were arrested for OMVWI 1st Offense.”

On the South Side: “Officers responded to a report of a vehicle that had left the roadway and crashed into a highway sign. Officers arrived and found the vehicle unoccupied. At about the same time, a gas station nearby called to report a person inside the store that was claiming to have just been involved in a crash. Officers responded and contacted the person. The person appeared intoxicated but refused to participate in SFSTs. They were arrested for OMVWI 1st.”

Plans for 2026 Construction Season Underway: Our Engineering Director Leah Ness shared this note: “On Tuesday, December 9th, City Council approved resolutions to accept special assessment policy and rates along with the levying of special assessments for the beginning of the 2026 Capital Improvement Projects. Engineering staff are currently working on design and construction related activities for the following proposed projects:

  • Dorret Road (South City Limits to Vine Street)
  • Marquette Street (Riverview Drive to Starr Avenue)
  • Woodland Avenue (Chauncey Street to Margaret Street)

The next step in continuing these projects is to send project-related notices to property owners. These notices will include Engineering Reports and more project information, along with assessment information and information related to the public hearing. Staff works to keep up to date information related to the CIP on the following webpage: https://www.eauclairewi.gov/our-city/construction-projects.

Any questions related to the Capital Improvement Projects and be directed to the Engineering Department at Engineering@eauclairewi.gov or 715-839-4934.” Pictured below is a map of the proposed County Line Road project.

Project Map

Outdoor Winter Recreation Opportunities: Our Recreation Department announced the kick-off of winter recreation season, with this information:

Pinehurst Warming Shelter: Pinehurst warming shelter will be open beginning Monday, December 15th for gear share and sledding, downhill skiing, and snowboarding. Pinehurst skating rink availability is planned to begin on Friday December 26th, weather permitting.

Pinehurst warming shelter hours of operation as of December 15th will be Monday through Friday from 4 to 7PM and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 7PM. (The shelter will be closed December 24th and 25th)

Boyd, Roosevelt, and Putnam Heights Skating Rinks and Warming Shelters: Crews are currently building ice to a safe and skateable condition. Weather permitting, the rinks and warming shelters at these locations are tentatively planned to open on Friday, December 26th. Updates will follow as the date approaches.

Mitscher and Sam Davey Skating Rinks: Skating rinks at these locations are tentatively planned to open on Friday, December 26th. Updates will follow as the date approaches. These locations will be skating rink only, with no warming shelter availability.

Recreation staff shared: "We kindly ask that everyone stay off the outdoor rinks until they are opened. Staying off the ice will help preserve the progress that has already been made and ensure the rinks are in the best possible condition once they open." For additional City of Eau Claire Outdoor Rink information please visit: https://www.eauclairewi.gov/recreation/outdoorskating-rinks

Groomed Cross Country Ski Trails: For the first time since 2023, cross-country ski trails at Pinehurst Park, Northwest Park, Fairfax Park, and Carson Park have been groomed and packed, and they are officially open! For additional cross country ski trail information please visit: https://www.eauclairewi.gov/recreation/trails/ski-trails. 

For updates on all winter recreation activities follow the Recreation and Parks Divisions' Facebook page at www.facebook.com/cityofecpr. Pictured below are trails being groomed and a skier testing a trail.

Grooming Trails

Cross Country Trails

 

WAYS TO SERVE

Employment Openings: Take a look at our open positions here: Job Openings | Sorted by Posting Date descending | JOB OPENINGS (governmentjobs.com)

Bus Operator - Full-Time (Transit): Where customer service skills, service to your community, and a fulfilling job intersect – Eau Claire Transit. We are currently hiring for a full-time Bus Operator. This position includes driving city-wide bus routes while maintaining the schedule and obeying traffic laws, providing information to customers regarding the Transit System, tracking passenger count data, and more. Deadline to apply: Sunday, December 14th at 11:59PM

NEW - Library Assistant - Circulation Services (Library): The L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library is seeking an outgoing, enthusiastic and detail-oriented Library Assistant who has a passion for public service, exemplary customer service and strong organizational skills. This is a full-time, non-exempt position, 40 hours per week. The 2026 starting wage is $20.08 per hour. Deadline to apply: 8AM on Monday, December 22nd.

Police Officer (Police Department): Enhance the quality of life in Eau Claire by partnering with the community to solve problems, reduce crime and disorder, safeguard individual rights, and improve public safety. Join the City of Eau Claire’s Police Department! We are now accepting applications for current Police Officer openings and a hiring eligibility list. Now accepting lateral transfers! Deadline to apply: Sunday, January 4th, 2026 at 11:59PM. Learn more here: https://www.joinecpd.org/

Boards, Commissions, and Committees: We have several openings on the volunteer Boards, Commissions, and Committees that are listed below. Learn more about these roles and apply here:  Boards, Commissions & Committees | City of Eau Claire, Wisconsin

Zoning Board of Appeals: The work of the board is to hear and decide appeals where it is alleged there is error in any order, requirement, decision or determination made by the Zoning Administrator. An understanding of zoning and land use is helpful, but not required.

Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee: This commission provides advice to City Council that reflects community values on bicycle and pedestrian practices relative to the City.

 

CLOSURES/DETOURS, OPENINGS, DEADLINES, ALERTS, & REMINDERS:

Here are a few reminders:

  • Communicable Disease Updates: Stay on top of the virus outlook by signing up for the Health Department’s monthly communicable disease email newsletter by clicking here.
  • Eddy Street Bridge Open (with Weight Restrictions): Eddy Street Bridge is open with a 15-ton weight limit. (Most personal-use vehicles, including passenger cars, SUVs, and light trucks, weigh less than 15 tons.)
  • Green Waste Facility: The Green Waste Facility is now closed. It will re-open for Merry Mulch season.
  • Odd/Even Parking Restrictions: The City is enforcing winter odd/even parking restrictions. Alternate Side Parking rules are in effect even if there is no snow. If you're new to Eau Claire or just need a refresher, visit EauClaireWI.gov/AlternateSideParking for what you need to know. Alternate Side Parking rules do not replace more restrictive parking regulations, including any street posted with No Parking sign.
  • Santa’s Reindeer Round-Up: Join in the Recreation Divisions clue search. Register to be eligible for prizes at: Reindeer Round-Up. Pictured below is one team that found a clue!

Reindeer Search

 

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS: Feel free to share your question here and we will work on answering it: Service Request Form - City Manager | City of Eau Claire, Wisconsin (eauclairewi.gov) Send questions or comments to the City Council via this form: https://www.eauclairewi.gov/government/city-council/city-council-members/city-council-contact

Plow Ridges

Question: “The City plows leave lots of snow piled up in my driveway after I've shoveled it. What can be done?”

Answer: Unfortunately, there is not a way to avoid creating the plow ridge when plows go by. We apologize for the extra shoveling work that's required and appreciate everyone's help in keeping the streets clear.

RV Dump Station

Question: “I understand the water is turned off on the RV dump station at the wastewater site. However, is the dump drain still available to use and clear of snow during winter months?”

Answer: Community Services Operations Manager Ty Fadness shared: “The RV dump station at the Wastewater Treatment Plant is open seven days a week 7AM to 2:30PM year-round. You are correct that the rinse water has been shut off, but you can still dump.”

Plow Question

Question: "Why does the truck go by with the plow blade up?"

Answer: The current truck fleet is equipped with salters/sanders, main plows, and wing plows. The salter/sander plow trucks can travel much faster with their blades up. Operators may travel with the plow blade raised for several reasons:

  • The operator may be headed to a specific area, such as an accident or another incident that needs a quick response.
  • The operators may be going back to the shop for fuel, repairs, or to reload with sand or salt. If they took the extra time to travel with the plow blade down, the plow area or route to which they were assigned would experience a delay in their service.
  • The operator may be headed to the next assigned location and using a route such as a primary ice control route to travel. See maps of all three route tiers at EauClaireWI.com/SIControl

Plow with Blades Up

Sand for Residents

Question: “Can I get sand to make my sidewalks less slippery?”

Answer: Sand is available for Eau Claire residents anytime at the Central Maintenance Facility (CMF) at 911 Forest Street. The sand is available 24 hours a day, and there is no cost. Remember to bring your own shovel and container. There is a five-gallon pail per resident limit.

 

WAYS TO GET IN TOUCH: We encourage you to use these different ways to follow City news and reach out to us.

  • Contact City Council. Council Members welcome contacts, and you can reach them here: City Council
  • Attend Council Meetings. Individuals can stream or attend City Council meetings, and each Monday evening session has a period of public comment. Meetings can be found here: Meetings | City of Eau Claire, Wisconsin
  • Invite us to a meeting. We are also always happy to send staff and Council Members to other meetings residents or stakeholders would like to hold. We can attend book clubs, lectures, classes, church assemblies, etc. We will come to you -- just let us know where and when.

 

COUNCIL CALENDAR (Tentative – Please see: City Calendar | City of Eau Claire, Wisconsin (eauclairewi.gov) for most complete and up-to-date list of public meetings)

  • CANCELLED: December 22nd and 23rd Meetings
  • Monday, January 12th, Council Public Hearing, 6PM, Council Chambers
  • Tuesday, January 13th, Council Legislative Session, 4PM, Council Chambers
  • Monday, January 26th, Council Public Hearing, 6PM, Council Chambers
  • Tuesday, January 27th, Council Legislative Session, 4PM, Council Chambers
  • Monday, February 9th, Council Public Hearing, 6PM, Council Chambers
  • Tuesday, February 10th, Council Legislative Session, 4PM, Council Chambers
  • Monday, February 23rd, Council Public Hearing, 6PM, Council Chambers
  • Tuesday, February 24th, Council Legislative Session, 4PM, Council Chambers
  • Monday, March 9th, Council Public Hearing, 6PM, Council Chambers
  • Tuesday, March 10th, Council Legislative Session, 4PM, Council Chambers
  • Monday, March 23rd, Council Public Hearing, 6PM, Council Chambers
  • Tuesday, March 24th, Council Legislative Session, 4PM, Council Chambers
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