Most road construction done in time for Thanksgiving travel

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Most major highway construction projects have concluded for the year. However, drivers traveling during the Thanksgiving holiday may encounter some ongoing road work as well as heavy traffic.

“Although drivers generally won’t have to deal with detours on major highways due to construction projects, there are some areas where lane restrictions and reduced speeds may still be in place,” said Don Greuel, chief project services engineer for the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT).

Traffic is expected to be heavy on Friday, November 22, as deer hunters begin to flock to the woods and again on Wednesday, November 27, when motorists travel to join friends and family for the Thanksgiving holiday. The heaviest traffic day on major highways is projected to be Sunday, December 1, when deer hunters and holiday travelers return home.

The heavy holiday traffic may cause sudden and unexpected back-ups, so WisDOT officials advise drivers to slow down and pay attention. As always, they must drive sober and buckle up. Motorists also should be prepared for inclement weather. Before traveling, they can check current road conditions at Wisconsin 511 online (www.511wi.gov) or by calling 511 on their phone.

Significant highway projects that may affect Thanksgiving holiday travel include the following:


    Last year, five people died in traffic crashes in Wisconsin during the Thanksgiving holiday period, which runs from 6 p.m. on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving to midnight on the following Sunday.

    To help prevent crashes, WisDOT will display traffic safety messages on its electronic signs on major freeways during the holiday period.

    “This time of year, drivers need to be especially cautious because weather conditions can change rapidly, the hours of daylight decrease, and deer are extremely active,” says David Pabst, director of the WisDOT Bureau of Transportation Safety. “If drivers make responsible decisions, they can prevent crashes and help ensure a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving for everyone.”