Governor Jim Doyle approves I-39/Business 51 interchange improvements

May 13, 2008

As part of his “Grow Wisconsin” initiative to invest in Wisconsin’s infrastructure and stimulate our state’s economy, Governor Jim Doyle recently signed a $2.5 million contract to improve the I-39/Business 51 interchange, located in the city of Stevens Point and the town of Hull in Portage County.

Construction is scheduled to begin on May 27, 2008.

American Asphalt of Mosinee is the prime contractor for the project. Crews will raise and repair the interchange bridge to meet current design and safety standards. Improvements also include the addition of a deceleration lane to the I-39/US 51 northbound off-ramp, allowing motorists a safer transition from the freeway.

Construction is scheduled for completion by late October 30, 2008, according to Mark Steidl, WisDOT project manager.

During construction, traffic impacts will include:

• Closing the I-39 northbound exit and entrance ramps, from approximately May 27 to August 29, 2008. Traffic will be detoured via I-39, US 10, and Business 51.
• Closing the I-39 southbound exit and entrance ramps for approximately three weeks beginning June 2, 2008. Traffic will be detoured via I-39, US 10, and Business 51.
• Weekday lane closures on I-39.
• Some weekend lane closures on I-39 may be necessary in early October.

Ninety percent of the project will be paid with federal transportation funds; the remaining 10 percent will be paid with state transportation funds.

For more information, contact:
Kristin McHugh, Regional Communications Manager
(715) 421-8380, kristin.mchugh@dot.state.wi.us