Do not be surprised if you run into a few traffic jams this week due to Independence Day revelry and construction cones. AAA estimates that over 61 million Americans will drive at least 50 miles for their Fourth of July celebrations this year. According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, the peak times for holiday travel will be noon to 9 p.m. on July 2nd, 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on July 3rd, and noon to 7 p.m. on July 4th. The DOT is doing its part to make the roadways safer to drive, starting at noon on Thursday when they wrap up work ahead of the weekend. Just because you do not see crews on the road does not mean you will not see the remnants of construction work. Bridge closures are still in effect on State Highway 57 near Logan Creek due to culvert replacements, and intersection improvements on State Highway 57 at County H and Stone Road are still in progress. DOT Spokesperson Mark Kantola says there are still plenty of things to watch for when driving.
Kantola advises people to visit the DOT’s 511 website to stay up-to-date on construction projects throughout the state, so you are informed before you travel. AAA wants you to be prepared as well,l after they responded to more than 700,000 emergency roadside assistance calls last July 4th holiday travel season, which was also a record year.
