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US 51/WIS 29 project - traveler assistance

E-mail updates | Service Patrol | Message boards | Crash investigation sites | Safety tips

WisDOT is providing several services to help motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians maintain safe and efficient transportation throughout construction.

E-mail updates

To receive periodic construction updates via e-mail:

• Create an e-mail message to imailsrv@dot.listserv.wi.gov 
• Leave the "subject" area blank.
• In the message body, type: subscribe 5129project Your Name (5129project is one word. Please see example below.)
• Eliminate any signatures or any other text from the body of the message.

Your e-mail to subscribe to construction updates should be similar to the example below.

You will receive an e-mail confirming your subscription. Contact 51-29team@dot.state.wi.us if you have difficulties or questions about subscribing.

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US 51/WIS 29 Service Patrol

The US 51/WIS 29 Service Patrol's primary purpose is to keep the highway free of obstructions by assisting motorists with vehicle problems and taking vehicles from the freeway to a safer, off-site location. Drivers can use the Service Patrol's cell phone to call for additional assistance. 

The Service Patrol will operate during peak travel times and weekend hours to ensure traffic moves safely through the corridor project. The Service Patrol will also call law enforcement to the scene of crashes and assist when necessary to keep the crash site area safe.

Message boards

Traffic announcements will be displayed on portable changeable message signs along the construction zone to update travelers on current traffic conditions. A message board is also mounted on the Service Patrol Vehicle for use when providing roadside assistance.

Crash investigation sites

Crash investigation sites are designated safe zones for motorists to relocate to if they are involved in a traffic incident. Freeway shoulders are not safe places for motorists to stop.

These sites are a safe location away from high-speed, "live" traffic lanes. Relocating vehicles and motorists to off-site locations also minimizes secondary incidents.

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Safety tips

Following these safety tips will help you get through the work zone safely in less time with less frustration:

• Allow a safe distance between vehicles — approximately two car lengths. When a roadway is full, sudden braking from following a vehicle too closely creates a domino effect of braking — leading to traffic jams that can stretch for miles.
• Merge early and cautiously. Do not “punish” merging drivers by closing your gap. Traffic jams develop when cars get so close together that there aren’t any gaps between them. Without gaps, nobody can merge, so traffic comes to a near halt. Allowing cars to safely merge keeps everyone moving forward.
• Watch for special instructions and advisories on electronic message boards as you approach a major work zone.
• Avoid peak travel times or use alternate routes if possible.
• Stay calm. Work zones are not meant to personally inconvenience you. Everyone’s safety is dependent upon your cooperation.

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Questions about the content of this page:
North Central Transportation Region, ncr.dtsd@dot.state.wi.us
Last modified: February 6, 2008