The Community of Bishops Bay is fortunate to have a park dedicated by the Sam Jacobsen estate along with a financial commitment by Lucille Taylor to continue park improvements. A groundbreaking ceremony was held with Lucille in May 2015 when the playground equipment arrived. Full-size football and lacrosse fields were built, a shelter, restrooms, pickleball courts, and a basketball court are now completed.
Also, just 4 years later, in May 2019, the Taylor Park Shelter dedication was held at the Harvey John and Lucille Taylor Memorial Park off Hwy Q.
This 11.2-acre community park is named after its generous benefactors, Harvey John and Lucille Taylor, who donated their entire estate to build a park for the public. Here you’ll find the largest Playworld System® playground for children ages 5 to 12 in Middleton, which is also ADA-accessible (as are picnic areas, paths, parking and football areas). For more information, click here. Two tennis courts, a basketball court, a sand volleyball area, lacrosse field, and two state-of-the-art soccer/football fields are in the works. A bike and pedestrian path, including a possible tunnel under Highway Q, will connect the park to Pheasant Branch Conservancy trails. In addition Woodland Adventure Park will offer a myriad of recreational opportunities and is the centerpiece of the Bishops Bay park system. The area is centered around a lush restored woodland and beautiful savanna, with scenic views of the Capitol, golf course, Lake Mendota, and the sprawling countryside.
In addition, stunning natural beauty and breathtaking wide-open spaces surround The Community of Bishops Bay with an amazing array of Mother Nature’s best work. Highlights include the nearby Pheasant Branch Conservancy offering 710 acres of hiking and multi-use trails, Governor Nelson State Park includes 422 acres of hiking and multi-use trails, picnicking and access to swimming in Lake Mendota.