US 12 project frequently asked questions

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US 12 project

US 12 project frequently asked questions

Will access to US 12 change?

There were approximately 190 driveways and 40 state, county and town roads along existing US 12 between Sauk City and Middleton. One of the goals of the project was to reduce the number of access points - or potential conflict points - by 30 percent.

Each access location was reviewed on a case by case basis with the input of the property owner. Where possible, driveways were redirected to side roads or combined to serve more than one property owner.

Side roads were better aligned to intersect US 12 at as close to a right angle as possible. New town roads were created to act as frontage roads for multiple driveways.

Will homes along US 12 need noise walls?

Noise walls are not anticipated as part of the US 12 project. Although noise impacts will be reviewed and confirmed as part of the final design, noise barriers are not a likely mitigation measure for the homes potentially affected.

Mitigation of noise impacts must be done in accordance with Wisconsin Administrative Code, this means the noise barriers must reduce noise levels by a minimum of 8 dBa and must be prudent and cost-effective. Noise barriers or earthen berms have not been found effective in reducing noise where there are other access points (such as side roads or driveways) nearby.

For the residences that may have measurable noise impacts, the predicted future noise level is not high enough to incur the required 8 dBa of noise reduction that is the warrant for a noise barrier.

Where will the new park and ride lots be located?

Three lots are proposed. One park and ride lot is proposed at the south quadrant of WIS 188, another at WIS 19 east where the Dane County Highway shop is currently located, and the third will be at the southeast quadrant of the Business 12 interchange.

The lots will be designed for 40 vehicles with expansion capabilities for 100 vehicles. Telephone, lighting, bike racks, a bus loading area and connection to the US 12 bike path are planned features.

After the highway is completed, what should we expect to see as far as landscaping along the highway?

US 12 has been designed to blend naturally with the area to minimize negative aesthetic impacts. During the design phase, special attention is being taken to minimize adverse visual impacts. When possible, the design will incorporate features that blend with the existing landscape, planting disturbed areas with native species and possibly a vegetation screen for properties located next to the roadway. A special plan for Sauk City is being developed.

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