'We need your help:' WisDOT urges drivers to use caution in I-94 N-S construction zone

RACINE -- As you count down to the end of your work week and get ready to indulge in food, fun and fireworks for the Fourth of July, there is one thing the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) wants you to remember. Drive safely -- especially in construction zones.

"We need your help," said Michael Pyritz, communications manager for the WisDOT Southeast Region.

WisDOT officials say more than 930,000 vehicles will be on the roads this holiday weekend.

Michael Pyritz

"We're expecting very high volumes in the construction zone," Pyritz said.

Pyritz is encouraging travelers to pump the brakes and pay attention. In recent weeks, several unpredictable accidents have led to hours-long closures in the I-94 North-South work zone.

"If you drive the posted speed limit in this construction zone, it takes you 18 minutes," Pyritz said.

On June 19, two semi truck drivers were killed in  fiery crash along the interstate near 50th Street. One day later at Rawson Avenue, a car hauler smashed into a concrete barrier, putting thousands of vehicles at a standstill. Then last Friday, June 28, another miserable closure occurred after corrosive material from a semi spilled during an accident.

Road construction in I-94 North-South corridor

"Yeah, it was a real nightmare," said Crystal Hoegsted, who plans to travel during the holiday weekend.

Hoegsted lives in the area -- and was stuck in the middle of that mess.

"It took us one hour to get home," Hoegsted said.

Hoegsted plans to leave for Lyndon Station -- located just northwest of Wisconsin Dells -- Wednesday morning.

Road construction in I-94 North-South corridor

"In fact, we plan on taking the back roads home when we leave on Sunday," Hoegsted said.

To help ease the holiday backups, major construction will halt beginning on Wednesday at noon through 6 a.m. Monday.

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Road construction in I-94 North-South corridor