Pewaukee council signals support to explore Amtrak Hiawatha stop at Margine Lane

Pewaukee councilors told staff to continue working with Amtrak on a proposed Hiawatha line stop on the north side of Margine Lane, signaling general support for the location while raising questions about parking, traffic and long-term maintenance costs.

"They did provide a preliminary plan that shows, I think, it's about 65 parking spaces and a 100 foot long platform," said Nick, the staff member presenting Amtrak's proposal. He said Amtrak is pursuing grant funding that would likely pay for upfront improvements, but "the ongoing maintenance, snow removal, repairs would all be the responsibility of the city."

Several council members welcomed the idea as an investment in transit and convenience for commuters. "My college kids' age were ecstatic," one council member said, describing local enthusiasm for improved rail access to Minneapolis, Chicago and other destinations. Other members cautioned that the site’s distance from downtown and current parking patterns could limit economic benefit and said policing and parking enforcement would need planning.

Councilors discussed parking enforcement options, including electronic plate-scan and QR-based systems, and noted that the village downtown would face different parking challenges if a separate stop were selected. There was no formal motion to approve a station; staff reported they would continue to coordinate with Amtrak and pursue grant opportunities if the council’s direction stands.

The item did not include a commitment of city capital for construction; staff emphasized grants were expected to cover the initial improvements while the city would be responsible for long-term upkeep if the stop is built.