Weight restrictions set for Zoo Interchange ramps
August 18, 2009
Changes in place to ensure safety
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) has imposed weight restrictions on three ramps in the Zoo Interchange in Milwaukee after recent inspections showed deterioration of the bridge structures.
Starting today, the restrictions ban vehicles carrying loads in excess of posted limits on the following ramps:
- Northbound I-894/US 45 through the interchange to north US 45 (60,000 pound limit/30 tons)
- Southbound US 45 to the eastbound I-94 connector ramp (70,000 pound limit/35 tons)
- Northbound I-894/US 45 to the westbound I-94 ramp (80,000 pound limit/40 tons)
Vehicles exceeding the posted limits will need to use alternate routes.
WisDOT Secretary Frank Busalacchi said the state has been closely monitoring the condition of the aging Zoo Interchange structures. When recent investigations showed advancing deterioration, the state decided to post the weight restrictions immediately until a more thorough assessment can be conducted to determine needed treatments.
Secretary Busalacchi emphasized the interchange and all ramps are safe for traffic.
'Our first priority is safety,' Busalacchi said. 'These ramps will continue to safely handle traffic in the busy interchange. By restricting heavy loads, we decrease wear and tear on the bridges and preserve the integrity of the structures until they can be rehabilitated or replaced.'
Built in 1963, the Zoo Interchange is the busiest interchange in Wisconsin with more than 350,000 vehicles using it each day. The interchange connects I-94, I-894 and US 45.
The more thorough inspections and physical testing are already underway on the three posted ramps. The testing process and analyses is expected to take several months.
Signs will alert drivers of the weight restrictions and alternate truck routes.
For more information, contact:
Dennis A. Shook, WisDOT Southeast Region Communications Manager
(414) 750-2395,
dennis.shook@dot.wi.gov
Beth Cannestra, WisDOT Bureau of Structures
(608) 266-0075,
beth.cannestra@dot.wi.gov
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