This project is complete!

Public meeting held Dec. 11, 2012. View the news page for more.

About the I-794/I-94 westbound project

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) consistently looks for ways to improve operations for our customers on the state's freeway system.

Background

In spring/summer 2012, WisDOT made a change in pavement marking westbound through the Marquette Interchange to provide a lane for traffic from each direction. Work was done to address safety and operational issues identified in the Marquette Interchange. Specifically, the southbound lanes of traffic were experiencing hazardous congestion that resulted in merging traffic being pushed into the through lanes of I-43 southbound.

The goal was to improve traffic flow and address safety concerns identified on I-43 southbound. While we did meet this goal, additional congestion started to occur on I-794 leaving downtown.

We knew there were going to be some delays after this initial work, but they were expected to be minimal and in short duration.

Over the last few months, our traffic engineers continually monitored the area.  We've also heard from area residents, businesses and motorists that these new delays are unacceptable – and Wisconsin DOT agrees.

The new project

WisDOT recently began a new project to help traffic flow of I-794/I-94 westbound through the Marquette Interchange.

The project will:

• Add an auxiliary lane westbound from the Marquette Interchange through the 35^th Street Interchange.
• Improve operations of I-794 westbound while maintaining the improvements along I-43 southbound into and through the ramp to westbound I-94.
• Maintain improvements on I-43 southbound.

 View schematic map.

Work began in March and will be completed in May 2013, weather permitting

A public information meeting was held on December 11, 2012 to give the public the opportunity to see the proposed changes and provide comments.

The department appreciates the input and patience from the motorists using I-794. WisDOT places a high priority on providing a safe and efficient transportation system. This project will result in a safer and more efficient roadway serving downtown and all the motorists using the Marquette Interchange.

What's next

There are several large infrastructure improvement projects planned in this area over the next two years. WisDOT has plans to rehabilitate many bridges on I-43 and begin preliminary work on the Hoan Bridge.

The Marquette Interchange continues to be a landmark of transportation for Milwaukee and serves the entire state. This project will improve the overall function of the interchange.