Governor Evers Approved $68 Million I-43 Project

Wisconsin will invest $68.1 million to reconstruct a 9.8-mile stretch of I-43 across two counties.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Construction

Governor Evers Approved $68 Million I-43 Project

Live Poll

Do you support the allocation of public funds toward local highway expansion and infrastructure reconstruction projects?

Governor Tony Evers has authorized a $68.1 million reconstruction project for a 9.8-mile segment of I-43. The work will span Waukesha and Walworth counties, focusing on vital infrastructure improvements.

Why it matters

The project serves to maintain critical state transportation infrastructure through comprehensive pavement replacement and bridge upgrades. This investment ensures the continued reliability of a key regional corridor for Wisconsin commuters and freight.

The reconstruction covers 9.8 miles of I-43 at a total cost of $68.1 million. The scope includes pavement replacement, bridge improvements, and wall repairs alongside new sign and guardrail installations.

The players

Tony Evers

Tony Evers is the current Governor of Wisconsin who holds executive authority over state infrastructure projects and budget approvals.

The details

The project will remain open in both directions throughout construction by utilizing staged traffic shifts and crossovers. Early preparation, including lane widening and the creation of temporary emergency pullouts, will precede the main construction phase.

Preparation work begins the week of October 5, 2026.
Major construction is scheduled to begin in spring 2027.
The project is expected to be completed in 2029.

Market Landscape

This project follows the maintenance standards and funding cycle established by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation's State Highway Rehabilitation Program. Such large-scale infrastructure investments reflect the state's ongoing commitment to modernizing its primary interstate arteries.

Drivers using I-43 through Waukesha and Walworth counties should prepare for shifted traffic patterns and crossovers during construction. While the interstate will remain open, commuters should anticipate changes to normal lane configurations starting in 2027.

The takeaway

Maintaining 9.8 miles of interstate requires careful planning to prevent significant travel delays for local residents. Motorists are encouraged to monitor state traffic updates to navigate the upcoming lane shifts safely.