WisDOT Pauses Construction for Labor Day, Urges Caution on Roads

MADISON, Wis. (Civic Media) — The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) is temporarily pausing work on most highway construction projects across the state to ease travel during the Labor Day weekend. However, drivers are told to remain cautious and expect slower traffic in work zones and along major travel corridors.

WisDOT Secretary Craig Thompson emphasized the importance of safe driving habits. “While the summer travel season is almost in the rearview mirror, drivers must focus on the road ahead,” Thompson said. “Let’s continue to work together to make our roads safer and avoid bad driving habits.”

According to AAA, peak travel times are expected between 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Thursday, 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday.

Despite the pause in construction, several significant road projects may impact holiday travel. In Northeast Wisconsin, northbound I-41 is reduced to two lanes between Main Street and US 10/WIS 441 in the Fox Valley area, with significant delays expected. Drivers are advised to consider alternate routes.

In Northwest Wisconsin, both directions of US 53 traffic are operating on the northbound lanes between 26th Avenue, north of Rice Lake to Pine Grove Road, south of Sarona. Reduced speed limits are in effect.

Southeast Wisconsin travelers should be prepared for various ramp closures and single lane closures along I-43 between Capitol Drive and the Marquette Interchange in Milwaukee County.

WisDOT recommends using the free 511 Wisconsin app or visiting 511wi.gov for real-time travel information. The department also reminds drivers that the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign is in effect through Labor Day, with law enforcement agencies across the state patrolling highways to enforce traffic safety laws.

Drivers are encouraged to buckle up, be patient, and avoid using their phones while driving to ensure a safe holiday weekend on Wisconsin’s roads.