MADISON, Wis., July 28, 2025 — Governor Tony Evers has approved a $4.48 million contract to resurface and upgrade a stretch of US 12, reinforcing Wisconsin’s commitment to safe and modern infrastructure. The project spans from Industrial Drive in Altoona to the Fall Creek Bridge in Fall Creek, a vital corridor for local commuters and commercial traffic in Eau Claire County.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) awarded the project to Monarch Paving Co., based in Amery, which will serve as the prime contractor for this much-needed pavement rehabilitation and safety improvement effort.

Public Invited to Learn More

To keep the community informed and involved, Monarch Paving will host a preconstruction public meeting to answer questions about the project timeline, improvements, and expected traffic impacts:

When: 10 a.m., Friday, August 1
Where: Clubhouse at Lake Altoona County Park, 605 Beach Road, Altoona
Directions: Google Maps

Key Upgrades Planned

This stretch of US 12 has been showing signs of wear for years. The new project aims to extend the life of the roadway, improve drainage, and make it safer for everyone who uses it — from commuters to local farmers and freight haulers.

Major improvements include:

• Milling and resurfacing the existing pavement with fresh asphalt from Short Road to the Fall Creek Bridge.
• Widening paved shoulders from 3 feet to 5 feet to better accommodate disabled vehicles, cyclists, and improve overall safety.
• Installing shoulder and centerline rumble strips to help reduce lane departure crashes.
• Repairing or replacing aging culverts and cattle passes to keep the corridor reliable for rural communities.
• Upgrading guardrails and grading ditches in key spots to enhance drainage — including work near Schultz Road, Oak Knoll Road, and just west of the Fall Creek Bridge.
• Tree clearing for about 500 feet between Voight and Oak Knoll roads to support drainage improvements and shoulder work.
• Installing new pavement markings to improve visibility in all weather conditions.

“Investing in our roads means investing in local economies, safer travel, and the daily lives of Wisconsinites,” said Governor Evers in a statement. “This project is part of our ongoing commitment to maintain strong connections between our communities.”

Traffic Impacts

Construction will begin with preliminary work the week of August 4, with full resurfacing starting Monday, August 11. Motorists should expect lane closures controlled by flagging crews but US 12 will remain open throughout the project. Access to local properties within the work zone will be maintained.

Construction is expected to wrap up by mid-November, weather permitting.

Stay Informed

Motorists are reminded that using handheld cell phones is illegal in Wisconsin work zones. Drivers should always stay alert when traveling through construction areas.

Stay up to date on project progress and traffic alerts:

• Follow @WisDOTnorthwest on Twitter
• Visit the Northwest Region 511 website
• View the US 12 project page

This resurfacing project is one of many ongoing infrastructure investments across Wisconsin to keep the state moving safely and efficiently into the future.

Originally reported by WEAU News.