Weekend delays expected near I-39 work zone in Dane and Columbia County

September 10, 2009

Motorists advised to take alternate routes

Significant delays are likely near the I-39 work zone for motorists heading north Friday afternoon and returning home Sunday. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) Southwest Region strongly recommends motorists plan alternate routes.

The work zone extends 3.71 miles from the Dane County line north of Madison to WIS 60 in Columbia County, a major route for weekend motorists traveling to and from Wisconsin Dells and the northern region of the state.

Lane restrictions began this week and will be in place until the project’s scheduled completion in November.

Historically, traffic volumes are higher during the fall months. Motorists should anticipate significant delays during peak hours, particularly westbound (northbound) traffic on Friday afternoon/early evening and eastbound (southbound) traffic on Sunday afternoon/early evening.

The project’s initial stage was completed May 22 in advance of the summer travel season. Crews have begun the second stage of project to replace the pavement and install median safety walls.

Motorists can get up-to-the-minute travel information by either dialing 511 or going to the 511 Web site offered by WisDOT.  The 511 Web site provides travelers with traffic and road information on Wisconsin’s main highways, including the Interstate system.

Details on the I-39 safety barrier project can be found at the WisDOT Web site.

For more information, contact:
Tadd Owens, WisDOT Project Manager
(608) 245-5340, tadd.owens@dot.wi.gov
 
Michael Bie, WisDOT Regional Communications Manager
(608) 246-7928, michael.bie@dot.wi.gov