Green Bay Began Winterization of City Infrastructure

Public works crews have initiated seasonal closures and maintenance to protect infrastructure from winter freezing.

Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Severe Weather

Isometric editorial illustration of a city drain grate covered in autumn leaves, representing municipal winterization efforts. — Green Bay city crews have initiated seasonal winterization procedures to safeguard public infrastructure and storm drains from freezing temperatures. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Green Bay city crews have started the seasonal winterization process, which includes shutting down public parks and removing recreational infrastructure. The initiative aims to protect city assets from the upcoming cold weather season.

Why it matters

Winterization helps prevent costly damage to plumbing and equipment caused by freezing temperatures. Additionally, the city is clearing leaves to eliminate traffic hazards and prevent storm drain clogs during late autumn.

Crews are systematically draining pipes at park shelters and removing waterfront docks and navigation buoys. These actions are performed annually to mitigate damage from freezing in the Fox River and local park facilities.

The players

Green Bay Parks and Recreation

This department manages municipal recreational facilities, including the maintenance and seasonal preparation of public parks and waterfront areas.

The details

Parks and Recreation personnel are currently storing rides from Bay Beach Amusement Park and winterizing splash pads and pools. Residents are asked to assist by placing leaves on the terrace, as street accumulation poses risks to drainage and traffic safety.

The week of October 12, 2026: Dock removal at city waterfront locations.
The week of October 19, 2026: Buoy removal from Fox River and start of leaf collection.
November 26, 2026: End of the leaf collection season.
December 2026: Scheduled completion of the Leicht Park shelter.

Seasonal Patterns

The city's winterization process follows standardized seasonal maintenance cycles established to ensure public infrastructure remains operational during cold-weather months. These recurring preparations are timed annually to address the specific climate demands of the region.

Residents must place leaves on the terrace rather than in the street to prevent clogged storm drains and traffic hazards. If residents miss the scheduled collection window, they are required to transport yard waste to designated city sites.

The takeaway

Proper seasonal maintenance of private and public property significantly reduces the risk of water damage and infrastructure failure during the winter. Residents should follow the municipal collection schedule to keep storm drains clear and maintain neighborhood safety.

What happens next

Leaf collection is set to commence the week of October 19, 2026, and will continue until the season concludes on November 26, 2026. Additionally, dock removal is slated for the week of October 12, 2026, followed by the removal of Fox River buoys the week of October 19, 2026.