Leaders with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) joined community leaders in Milwaukee and Ozaukee counties to celebrate the completion of 14-miles of infrastructure upgrades between Glendale and Grafton.
The I-43 North-South project upgraded one of the busiest routes in the state, officials said. I-43 connects tens of thousands of travelers every day to manufacturers, merchants, commuters and tourist destinations. Additionally, the highway provides access to multiple modes of transportation including airports, buses, passenger rail, ferry service and the Port of Milwaukee.
WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman today joined community leaders near River Hills to celebrate completion of the 14-mile Interstate 43 North-South project between Glendale and Grafton. The ribbon cutting event recognized another quality Wisconsin infrastructure upgrade completed on-time and under budget, as well as the positive impacts it brings to the region and the entire state.
“We are proud to modernize this section of I-43 which serves as a local cornerstone in supporting daily life – connecting people to schools, jobs, healthcare, and to one another,” WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman said. “Completion of the I-43 North-South project shows that when we invest in Wisconsin’s transportation system, we are investing in more than steel and concrete. We are attracting visitors, improving the flow of commerce, making it easier to reach our destination and most importantly – improving safety. Investments in transportation truly enhance the quality of life for the people of Wisconsin.”
Construction on the project started in early 2022, officials said. While work is largely completed, addition work will be done over the coming weeks to finalize the project. The $550 renovation widened 14 miles of interstate, rebuilt five interchanges, constructed a new interchange and replace the Union Pacific railroad bridge over I-43 in Glendale. The project also installed southeast Wisconsin’s first Diverging Diamond interchange.
“I am excited to see this project come to fruition,” City of Glendale Mayor Bryan Kennedy said. “It is more than just new lanes of concrete. It is a commitment to building infrastructure that serves people – and the willingness of leaders at every level to work together to make it happen.”