March 26, 2026

By Lane Kimble

From Major and Mega freeway work continuing in the Fox Valley and Milwaukee to smaller undertakings in places like Rhinelander and Cumberland, you can expect to see state highway projects in every county in Wisconsin this year.

WisDOT has more than 400 projects slated for 2026, the Department said in a news release Wednesday.

The release detailed about a dozen specific projects across the state, giving drivers advance warnings and instructions on what to expect in those work zones.

“With construction projects planned in every county of the state, we urge motorists to plan ahead, know before you go with 511 Wisconsin, and always drive with caution in work zones,” WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman said.

This year’s assortment of projects reflects a slight decrease in overall number but an increase in projected let levels.

WisDOT told WTBA it predicts lets to total around $1.6 billion in FY2026, which would mean a more than $200 million jump over 2025.

WisDOT also stressed work zone safety in its news release. WTBA has worked with the Department for four years to expand safety messaging beyond the traditional one week in mid-April to all season long.

Keep an eye out for details on a kickoff event open to WTBA members in the coming weeks. Work Zone Awareness Week is April 20-24.