Rezoning opens door for new Riveredge facility

The Saukville Town Board last week approved rezoning 8.5 acres at 4400 Highway Y to clear the way for a new maple sugaring facility at Riveredge Nature Center.

The change from agricultural to parks zoning allows for gathering places of less than 100 people and makes the property consistent with the surrounding parcels owned by Riveredge.

Riveredge’s plans for the site, which were presented to the board by architect Don Stauss of Mequon, call for a 5,725-square-foot building and outdoor terrace.  

The new facility, which will be named the Sugar Inn, will have a maple sap processing area with viewing windows, as well as pancake and syrup preparation and serving areas.  

There will also be a classroom for as many as 60 people.

“Our membership is growing, and we’re trying to lay groundwork to make sure we’re ready for the next 50 years,” said Jessica Jens, executive director of Riveredge, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. 

A construction start date has not been set.