$25M Federal Grant to Overhaul Milwaukee’s National Avenue

MILWAUKEE, Wis (WAUK) — A major thoroughfare on Milwaukee’s South Side is set for a significant overhaul, thanks to a $25 million federal grant announced Thursday.

The funding, secured through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will finance the reconstruction of National Avenue from 1st Street to 39th Street. The project aims to enhance safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists along a stretch identified as part of Milwaukee’s High Injury Network.

Sen. Tammy Baldwin advocated for the project. Her statement included a thanks to the Biden-Harris administration and some details about what’s included, “These much-needed improvements, such as replacing deteriorating pavement, making curb ramps ADA compliant, creating separated bike lanes, improved street lighting, and raised crosswalks, will make this corridor safer for commuters, pedestrians, and bikers.”

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation has a website showing plans to implement several safety measures, including raised bike lanes, crosswalks, and a raised intersection. The project will also improve sidewalk space and add transit platforms.

Gov. Tony Evers praised the initiative, stating, “We are continuing our work to bring better, safer roads, highways, bike lanes, and railways to communities across our state.”

The grant comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity program.

Officials expect to start construction in 2026.