The Wisconsin Department of Transportation announced on Mar. 25 that it plans to undertake more than 400 highway improvement projects during the 2026 construction season, with work scheduled in every county across the state.
These infrastructure improvements are aimed at modernizing Wisconsin’s transportation system, enhancing safety for road users, and supporting economic growth throughout the state. According to Secretary Kristina Boardman, “As our teams get ready for another robust construction season, the safety of crews, industry partners and the traveling public remains our 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.”
Major projects highlighted include ongoing expansion on I-41 between Appleton and De Pere; reconstruction of WIS 21 between Omro and Oshkosh; resurfacing work on I-43 in Sheboygan County; continued rebuilding along I-94 near Milwaukee; final-year work on I-41 in Milwaukee County; repairs to bridges over the St. Croix River near Hudson; culvert replacement on US 63 in Barron County; reconstruction along US 51 between Stoughton and McFarland; upgrades at the I-90/94 interchange near Tomah; bridge repairs over the Wisconsin River in Columbia County; roundabout installations around Rhinelander on US 8; and pavement repairs near Wausau.
Motorists are advised to expect lane shifts, closures, detours, reduced speed limits and other traffic changes as these projects progress. Safety guidelines emphasize obeying posted speed limits—where fines double within work zones—avoiding phone use while driving (especially texting or handheld devices), practicing zipper merges where appropriate, giving space for crews by moving over or slowing down when approaching workers or equipment, and remaining patient during potential delays.
Travelers can access real-time information about travel conditions through resources such as the free 511 Wisconsin app or website (511wi.gov), follow @511WI on X (formerly Twitter), or call 511 directly for updates—noting that alerts should not be checked while driving. The WisDOT Safety Patrol will also be active along several major corridors to help manage incidents within construction zones.
According to the official website, WisDOT manages approximately 12,000 miles of highways statewide as well as thousands of bridges and various transit networks serving both urban and rural communities. The department employs more than 3,200 individuals across its divisions according to its official website. Its mission centers on leading development and management of a safe transportation system according to WisDOT, while advancing equity through initiatives like its Diversity Committee according to WisDOT.
The agency operates as a government body established by law with responsibility for transportation functions across Wisconsin according to its official site. Services extend statewide via highway maintenance as well as support for bus systems, airports, ports and railways.
