Milwaukee County motorists face significant traffic changes starting November 3 as the first phase of the Interstate 94 East-West project begins. This multi-year, multi-billion dollar initiative will reconstruct and widen a critical stretch of the highway, impacting daily commutes for thousands of drivers.
Key Takeaways
- I-94 East-West project's first phase, the West Leg, starts November 3.
- Initial closures include ramps and lane reductions between 70th Street and General Mitchell Boulevard.
- The West Leg segment is expected to continue through 2028.
- The overall project aims to widen I-94 to four lanes in each direction between 16th Street and 70th Street.
- Drivers should plan for significant delays and use alternate routes.
First Phase Targets West Leg Segment
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) has confirmed that the initial traffic impacts for the I-94 East-West project will commence on Monday, November 3. This first segment, known as the West Leg, focuses on the stretch of I-94 between 70th Street and Zablocki Drive in Milwaukee County. Crews will begin reconstruction efforts immediately.
Motorists should prepare for a series of ramp closures and lane reductions. These changes are designed to allow construction crews to work safely and efficiently on the vital highway infrastructure. The project is a major undertaking, aiming to improve traffic flow and safety for the region.
Project Scope
- Total Project Cost: Approximately $1.8 billion
- Project Duration: Expected to wrap up in 2033
- West Leg Completion: Estimated through 2028
- Goal: Widen I-94 to four lanes in each direction from 16th Street to 70th Street.
Immediate Traffic Impacts and Closures
The first wave of closures began just after midnight on November 3. The WIS 175 southbound exit ramp to Frederick Miller Way will close for roughly 30 days. This is one of several significant disruptions planned for the coming weeks.
Beginning November 4 at 9 p.m., a long-term closure will affect the 68th Street entrance ramp to I-94 eastbound. Additionally, the I-94 eastbound exit ramp to Hawley Road will close for an extended period, and the Hawley Road entrance ramp to I-94 eastbound will become a permanent closure.
Eastbound and Westbound Lane Reductions
On November 5 at 4:30 a.m., I-94 eastbound between 70th Street and General Mitchell Boulevard will see a long-term lane closure, reducing traffic to two lanes. This reduction is expected to cause considerable delays during peak hours.
Similar impacts are slated for westbound traffic. Starting November 6 at 9 p.m., the I-94 westbound exit ramp to Hawley Road will permanently close. The Hawley Road entrance ramp to I-94 westbound will also experience a long-term closure.
By the week of November 10, I-94 westbound between the Stadium Interchange and 70th Street will be reduced to two lanes. The WIS 175 southbound system ramp to I-94 westbound will also close long-term. Drivers traveling through these areas should expect significant changes to their daily routes.
"Keeping the freeway open to traffic is a major goal," a WisDOT representative stated. "We understand the inconvenience, but these measures are necessary for the long-term improvement of I-94."
Why Eight Years for Construction?
The extensive duration of the I-94 East-West project, projected to last until 2033, raises questions for many commuters. WisDOT officials explain that the project's complexity involves several factors. One key consideration is maintaining access to major destinations like American Family Field, home of the Milwaukee Brewers, and other significant local stakeholders.
Another primary reason for the extended timeline is the commitment to keep at least two lanes of traffic open in each direction throughout most of the construction period. This approach minimizes complete shutdowns but naturally extends the overall project duration. The goal is to balance necessary infrastructure upgrades with the daily needs of the traveling public.
Project Goals
The I-94 East-West project aims to modernize a critical transportation corridor. Expanding I-94 to four lanes in each direction between 70th Street and Zablocki Drive is a major component. This expansion is designed to accommodate current and future traffic volumes, reducing congestion and improving safety for drivers.
The Hawley Road interchange will also undergo significant reconstruction. It will become a half-interchange, eliminating ramps to and from the east while maintaining access to and from the west. The 68th Street / 70th Street interchange is also slated for reconstruction as part of the West Leg segment.
Recommended Alternate Routes
WisDOT has provided several alternate routes for motorists to consider during the construction. These routes are crucial for minimizing delays and managing traffic flow away from the active construction zones.
Local Alternate Routes
- North of I-94: Drivers can use Wisconsin Avenue and Bluemound Road.
- South of I-94: Canal Street, National Avenue, Greenfield Avenue, and Lincoln Avenue are recommended alternatives.
Regional Alternate Routes
- North of I-94: WIS 100 (Brown Deer Road/Main Street) between I-41 and I-43 is a viable option for longer trips.
- South of I-94: I-894 between I-41 and I-43/94 can help bypass the immediate construction area.
Drivers are encouraged to check real-time traffic updates regularly and plan their commutes well in advance. The construction will be a long-term fixture in the Milwaukee County landscape, requiring patience and adaptability from all road users.
