In 2025, Waukesha County is gearing up for an extensive series of infrastructure projects aimed at improving key roadways. These initiatives will affect major highways such as Interstate 94, State Highways 16 and 83, U.S. Highway 18, and State Highway 164. While lane closures are expected to cause some disruptions, the overall aim is to enhance safety and efficiency. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) has outlined plans that include resurfacing, bridge rehabilitation, and significant upgrades to traffic management systems. Despite potential delays, these projects promise long-term benefits for commuters and residents alike.

Interstate and Major Highway Enhancements

The upcoming year will see substantial work on Interstate 94 and other critical routes. The focus will be on enhancing existing infrastructure without causing extensive detours. For instance, I-94 will undergo finishing touches like high-friction surface treatments and new pavement markings. Additionally, dynamic messaging signs will be installed over the highway to improve real-time traffic information. This phase of construction follows last year's resurfacing project and aims to finalize improvements by mid-2025.

Detailed plans for Interstate 94 involve continuing from Highway 83 in Delafield to Highway 16 in Pewaukee. The project includes adding high-friction surface treatments and new signals on bridges, along with overhead dynamic messaging signs. Lane closures and brief overnight freeway closures may occur. Moreover, similar treatments will extend from Moreland Boulevard to Blue Mound Road starting in summer. Meanwhile, U.S. Highway 18, known locally as Les Paul Parkway, will undergo a major overhaul. This two-mile stretch between Arcadian Avenue and Sunset Drive will get new pavement, extended turn lanes, and improved pedestrian and cyclist accommodations. WisDOT officials have opted for staged construction to minimize disruption, with one side of the highway being worked on at a time.

Local Road Improvements and Bridge Rehabilitation

Several local roads and bridges will also receive attention in 2025. Highway 16, which crosses the Oconomowoc River, will undergo a two-phase rehabilitation project. The first phase focuses on constructing a new bridge and resurfacing the adjacent section of Highway 16 near Lac La Belle. The second phase, scheduled for 2027, will involve more extensive concrete work further down the road. Similarly, Highway 83 in Delafield will experience significant changes, including resurfacing and reconstruction, forcing detours for through traffic.

Highway 164, a crucial route south of Big Bend, will see comprehensive improvements aimed at enhancing safety. This 2.1-mile stretch from Henneberry Avenue to County Line Road will feature a new aggregate base topped with asphalt, widened shoulders, rumble strips, and modern guardrails. Detours using nearby highways will be implemented to reroute traffic while maintaining access to local homes and businesses. Looking ahead, Interstate 43 is set for major reconstruction in 2026, particularly in the southwest part of the county. This project will introduce a Diverging Diamond Interchange at the I-43/Highway 164 junction, significantly improving traffic flow and safety.