Fourth of July Travel Alert: Southeast Wisconsin Road Projects Continue

MADISON, Wis. (Civic Media) — The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) is urging Fourth of July travelers to exercise caution and prepare for potential delays as road construction continues in parts of Southeast Wisconsin, despite a general pause for the holiday weekend.

WisDOT Secretary Craig Thompson emphasized the importance of safe driving behaviors, stating, “Wisconsinites are expected to travel in record numbers for the Fourth of July weekend, so we urge drivers to keep their eyes up and speeds down.”

According to AAA, approximately 1.4 million people are expected to travel on Wisconsin roads during the holiday period. Peak travel times are anticipated between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Wednesday, July 3, and 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday, July 7.

While most road construction will pause to open as many lanes as possible, several significant projects may impact travel plans. In Milwaukee and Ozaukee counties, drivers should expect intermittent ramp and local street closures along I-43 between Glendale and Grafton. I-894 in Milwaukee County will maintain at least two open lanes in each direction between the Mitchell Interchange and 84th Street.

Full closures are in effect for sections of highways in Walworth and Racine counties, including parts of WIS 20, US 12, WIS 36, and WIS 11. Detours have been established for these areas.

Thompson stressed the importance of safe driving practices, urging travelers to buckle up, avoid impaired driving, and be courteous to other motorists. “These simple steps can help save lives and prevent crashes on Wisconsin roads,” he said.

To stay informed about current road conditions, WisDOT encourages drivers to use the 511wi.gov website or the 511 Wisconsin mobile app. These resources provide real-time information on travel conditions, live traffic cameras, work zones, and incidents across the state.

While Division of Motor Vehicle (DMV) customer service centers will be closed on July 4, online services will remain available 24/7 at wisconsindmv.gov.