The Wisconsin Department of Transportation has released its latest highway construction update, detailing ongoing and upcoming infrastructure projects across several counties in northwest Wisconsin.
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The April 10 report highlights active construction in Barron and Sawyer counties, while noting no current projects in Burnett, Polk, Rusk and Washburn counties. The updates provide contractors, commuters and local officials with insight into project timelines, costs and expected traffic impacts.
One of the most significant projects is underway along U.S. Highway 53 in Barron County, where multiple bridge structures between Cameron and New Auburn are being upgraded.
The project, valued at approximately $10.91 million, includes replacing bridge decks over the Chetek River and 20th Street, as well as replacing the bridge at County I. Additional work involves milling pavement, laying new asphalt on approaches and upgrading guardrails, signage and pavement markings.
Construction is scheduled to continue through October 2026, with the broader project timeline stretching from May 2025 to October 2026.
Motorists traveling through the corridor should expect single-lane closures on southbound U.S. 53 and reduced speed limits of 60 mph in active work zones. County I will also experience lane closures during the bridge replacement process.
Transportation officials emphasize that while the highway remains open, drivers should exercise caution and plan for potential delays as crews continue improvements on this heavily traveled route.
In Sawyer County, construction is focused on the County D bridge over the Chippewa River, located east of Exeland in the town of Weirgor.
The $1.08 million project includes replacing the bridge deck, repairing structural components such as abutments, piers and girders, and completing joint, shoulder and guardrail work. Crews are also replacing the roadway approach pavement to improve long-term durability.
Construction began March 23 and is expected to continue through early July.
Due to the nature of the work, County D is currently closed at the bridge site. Traffic is being detoured using WIS 40, WIS 70 and WIS 27, creating longer travel times for local residents and commercial drivers.
Officials say the closure is necessary to safely complete structural repairs and ensure the bridge meets modern performance standards.
While construction activity is limited in some counties this cycle, transportation planners note that seasonal schedules and funding allocations often result in staggered project timelines across the region.
The ongoing projects reflect continued investment in maintaining and upgrading critical transportation infrastructure, particularly bridges that have reached or are nearing the end of their service life.
Drivers traveling through northwest Wisconsin are encouraged to monitor updates, follow posted detours and remain alert in work zones to ensure both worker and motorist safety.
Originally reported by Dry Den Wire.
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