Interim improvements, south bypass selected for US 12, Fort Atkinson

December 4, 2007

Two years after the release of a draft environmental impact study of US 12 in the Fort Atkinson area, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) has selected a multi-phase approach to the area’s traffic and safety issues, including interim improvements on the existing roadway and the mapping of a south bypass.

After circulation of a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) in 2005, WisDOT responded to public and agency comments, completed an updated traffic study, and further examined potential impacts to the Allen Creek watershed.

“A great deal of communication and coordination between the public and the local, state and federal agency representatives has determined that the best course of action is to map a south bypass for future construction,” said WisDOT Project Manager Larry Barta.

The construction of the south bypass will depend on future traffic and safety needs along the existing US 12 route. The project will also be weighed against other projects and the state’s funding priorities. Given the state’s highway project funding process and predicted future traffic increases, WisDOT estimates that construction of the bypass could occur between 2020 and 2030. In the interim, WisDOT plans to make safety and operational improvements to the existing roadway to maximize its service life. Improvements under consideration include lane marking, signal timing and signage improvements in Fort Atkinson.

The exact alignment of the south bypass is not final. Further study will determine whether DEIS Alternatives 7, 7a, or a modification of one of them is the best alignment. Adjustments will focus on minimizing identified impacts to natural resources and property and on cost reductions while ensuring the new highway meets all engineering and safety standards. Additional coordination with property owners, other local stakeholders and agency representatives will take place as the alignment details are being refined.

A Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) will be prepared in the coming year and will include more detailed analysis of the two south bypass alignments.

WisDOT expects to complete the environmental review process and sign a record of decision on the study by the end of 2008, after which a bypass can be mapped.

WisDOT’s proposal to map a bypass would be accomplished under provisions of state statues governing the development of freeways. “Official mapping” is done by WisDOT to allow local communities and property owners to plan future development in coordination with the anticipated road project and minimize uncertainty for landowners and the governments. Mapping gives WisDOT the authority to purchase rights-of-way within the mapped area.

“The mapping will result in cost savings to taxpayers because rights-of-way can be purchased before land development takes place,” Barta said. “This will minimize the costs associated with home and business relocations.”

For more information, contact:
Larry Barta, WisDOT project manager
(608) 246-3884

Michael Bie, WisDOT regional communications
(608) 246-7928