Over 400 Highway Improvement Projects Now Scheduled In Wisconsin

Wisconsin highway improvement projects are crucial for increasing safety, reducing congestion, lowering vehicle operating costs, and supporting economic growth by facilitating efficient freight movement.

The projects are managed by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), and they address critical deficiencies, improve infrastructure reliability, and facilitate regional connectivity for commuters and commerce.

Recently, WisDOT released its 2026 construction season preview, which highlights substantial infrastructure improvements designed to 'modernize the state's transportation system, enhance safety for all road users, and continue to spur economic growth across Wisconsin.'

Get our free mobile app

WisDOT Announces More Than 400 Highway Improvement Projects

WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman says it'll be another robust construction season in the state, and the safety of its crews, industry partners, and the public remains the top priority.

"With construction projects planned in every county of the state, we urge motorists to plan ahead, know before you go with 511 Wisconsin, and always drive with caution in work zones,"​ said Boardman.

Significant projects across Wisconsin this year include:

• Construction work is ongoing for the major I-41 expansion project between Appleton and De Pere. Pay attention to lane shifts, reduced speed limits, and off-peak closures.
• Work starts next month to reconstruct WIS 21 between Omro and Oshkosh. WIS 21 will be closed and detoured until November 2026.
• Watch for lane and ramp restrictions on I-43 in Sheboygan County during resurfacing work through November 2026.
• Construction is underway on I-94, between 70^th Street and 16^th Street, near Milwaukee. Be alert for long-term lane closures, ramp closures, and lane shifts throughout the work zone.
• The rebuild of I-41 in Milwaukee County enters its final year of construction. Watch for long-term lane closures between Burleigh Street and Good Hope Road, ramp closures, and overnight work.
• Plan for construction work, lane closures, and slowdowns on the I-94 bridges over the St. Croix River near Hudson.
• US 63 will be closed to through traffic in Cumberland in Barron County as crews replace a culvert at Beaver Dam Lake with a new structure. Traffic will be detoured via WIS 48, US 53, and WIS 70.
• Work is ongoing to reconstruct the US 51 corridor between Stoughton and McFarland in Dane County. Watch for lane closures and flagging operations.
• Crews are rebuilding the I-90/94 interchange near Tomah in Monroe County. Be alert for lane and ramp closures this spring.
• Construction work continues for the I-39/90/94 bridges over the Wisconsin River in Columbia County. Pay attention to reduced speed limits and lane shifts.
• In the Rhinelander area, crews will reconstruct US 8 between WIS 47 and Oneida County G and build roundabouts at the US 8 intersections with WIS 17 and County G. Through traffic will be detoured during the project.
• Pavement repairs will take place on the US 51 and WIS 29 corridors near Wausau this summer. Watch for lane and ramp closures.

Safety In Work Zones Stressed

WisDOT reminds motorists to always be prepared to encounter traffic changes when approaching work zones, including reduced speed limits, lane shifts, and slow or stopped traffic. To keep everyone safe, drivers must:

• Follow posted speed limits. Fines double in work zones.
• Leave the phone alone. Texting while driving is illegal statewide, and using a hand-held mobile device is prohibited in work zones.
• Do the zipper merge.
• Move over or slow down. Give space to crews to safely do their work.
• Be patient. Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.

SEE NOW: These Are The 10 Best Hotels Right Now In Wisconsin