In October 2022, McMahon and Challenge the Outdoors partnered together on a new recreational complex project at Peter’s Pond in Angelica, Wisconsin. Challenge the Outdoors is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide outdoor experiences for physically challenged sportspeople, allowing them to safely participate in activities like hunting and fishing.
McMahon’s Environment & Infrastructure and Structures and Buildings Systems worked together throughout this project to bring the plans for the property to life.
Work began with a comprehensive topographic and location survey of the property. This initial step was crucial for understanding the land’s layout and planning the access roads and pathways. At the start of the project, the area surrounding the pond was entirely overgrown and inaccessible; the team carefully thought out how to make the travel paths functional and accessible to all participants, including those with disabilities.
Once the design was complete, McMahon took charge of bidding out the project and coordinating with various contractors to make the planned improvements to the pond property.
The area around the pond that was once overgrown was bulldozed and cleared to accommodate an eight-foot, accessible trail, new culverts were installed and five floating docks were placed in the pond – an addition that can be enjoyed year-round by Challenge the Outdoors participants. Finally, the driveway along the pond was expanded, creating a 20-foot-wide asphalt surface with a three-foot shoulder.
The Mission of Challenge the Outdoors
Based in Green Bay, Challenge the Outdoors is made up of over 100 volunteers who build deer blinds, assist with fishing and hunting, provide transportation and many other helpful tasks for disabled sportspeople.
Before the new facilities at Peter’s Pond, Challenge the Outdoors operated out of various commercial spaces and hosted events across Northeast Wisconsin. Now, the organization has a centralized space and permanent home to host outdoor recreational activities.
The Grand Opening
Challenge the Outdoors at Peter’s Pond will have its grand opening on August 18, 2024, at N2647 Cherry Drive, Angelica, Wisconsin (map). This event is more than just a ribbon-cutting ceremony; it’s a celebration of community, inclusivity and the great outdoors.
From 1:00 – 5:00 p.m., visitors can enjoy free fishing, tours, food and refreshments. There will be a brief program at 3:00 p.m., highlighting the project’s significance and the people who made it possible.
McMahon is excited to see the community come together to enjoy this new space and looks forward to the positive impact it will have on bringing people together in the outdoors.
