Gov. Evers, WisDOT announce $500,000 Transportation Economic Assistance Grant to support 100 new jobs in southern Wisconsin

Gov. Tony Evers, along with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), today announced a $500,000 Transportation Economic Assistance (TEA) grant awarded to the city of Milton for infrastructure upgrades to support the creation of 100 new jobs. The TEA grant will improve 2,700 feet of Vickerman Road to increase vehicle accessibility and allow material science company Charter Next Generation (CNG) to add a second facility in the city.

“Infrastructure upgrades through our TEA grant program have a direct impact on Wisconsin’s economy and the quality of life in our communities,” Gov. Evers said. “This investment in the city of Milton will not only improve a local road but it will lead to more economic opportunity in the region. We’re proud to partner with communities to build the 21^st Century infrastructure the people of our state deserve.”

Vickerman Road will be widened to allow for safe and efficient truck access to the new facility. The road improvements will also enhance accessibility for businesses and increase capacity to accommodate further growth and development to this area. Once the upgrades are complete, Vickerman Road will be classified as a Class A Truck Route allowing for heavier loads going to and from the facility.

“Congratulations to the city of Milton on an exciting new project to improve local infrastructure and bring new jobs to southern Wisconsin,” WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman said. “This project demonstrates exactly what the TEA grant program is about. We welcome opportunities to work with communities across the state to make necessary improvements to support economic growth.”

This project also includes modifications to the existing intersection of WIS 59 and Vickerman Road, expanding the intersection to allow for better turning access to and from WIS 59. By adding a second location in Milton, CNG will expand manufacturing and distribution capabilities. CNG plans to add two new buildings, a Cast Film Plant and Recycling Center and a Film Extrusion Plant.

“The city of Milton is excited to partner with the state on street improvements that will enable Charter Next Generation to open a second facility here, further expanding job opportunities for our residents and supporting the continued growth of our community,” City Administrator Paul Hensch said.

“We are thrilled to partner with the city of Milton and the Wisconsin Department of Transportation in receiving the Transportation Economic Assistance (TEA) grant,” Chairman and CEO of Charter Next Generation Kathy Bolhous said. “This award directly aligns with our purpose of enhancing lives for a better future, creating opportunities that benefit not only our people but also our neighbors and the entire community. By investing in innovative specialty films and material science solutions, we are proud to strengthen the local workforce, drive growth and power the economy. This exciting partnership fuels continuous investment in sustainable solutions and infrastructure, paving the way for lasting progress.”

In 2024, Gov. Evers has awarded more than $3 million dollars in TEA grants to communities across Wisconsin. The Transportation Economic Assistance (TEA) program provides matching state grants to governing bodies for road, rail, harbor and airport projects that help attract employers to Wisconsin or encourage business and industry to remain and expand in the state. A municipal or county unit of government must sponsor a TEA application. The project must have the local government’s endorsement, and it must benefit the public. More information about the program, including instructions to apply for a grant, can be found here.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.