Work to begin June 1 on WIS 164 in Waukesha and Washington counties

May 21, 2009

As part of his ongoing “Grow Wisconsin” initiative to invest in Wisconsin’s infrastructure and stimulate our state’s economy, Governor Jim Doyle has approved an $1.2 million project to improve the intersection of WIS 164 and County Q in Waukesha and Washington counties.

The work is scheduled to begin the week of June 1. “This project will replace the existing four-way stop controlled intersection with modern roundabouts,” said Christine Rawson, project manager with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT). “The improvements will reduce intersection congestion and enhance safety,” Rawson added.

Modern roundabouts are the newest form of intersection in the U.S. Several are in operation in Wisconsin, including a new urban roundabout on Milwaukee's south side. Several others are in the planning stages around the state. Roundabouts provide safe and efficient traffic flow and make use of extensive safety and traffic research conducted over the past 25 years in other countries. Today's roundabouts are much smaller than the "traffic circles" of earlier years. Roundabouts move traffic safely through an intersection with slower speeds, fewer conflict points and easier decision-making. Visit the following links for more information on how to travel roundabouts:

• WisDOT roundabout information
• Computer animations on driving roundabouts
• Video of roundabouts in Washington and Kansas

WIS 164 will remain open to traffic through construction; however, lane closures may occur.

The contractor, Super Western, Inc. is scheduled to complete the project by mid-September, weather permitting.

80 percent of the project will be paid with federal transportation funds; the remaining 20 percent will be paid with state transportation funds.

For more information, contact:
Dennis A. Shook, Regional Communications Manager
(414) 750-2395, dennis.shook@dot.wi.gov