WisDOT, City of Racine share update on WIS 38 Root River bridge project in Racine County
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) and City of Racine today shared an update on the WIS 38 Root River bridge project, between County MM and Rapids Drive, in Racine County.
Utility work in the area, separate from the WisDOT construction project, has delayed the start of the WIS 38 Root River bridge reconstruction. WisDOT staff are working in coordination with the City of Racine to reschedule the project, originally set to begin this summer. During this process, staff may adjust schedules of future area improvement projects to minimize impacts.
Community involvement is an important part of any transportation project. Last month, WisDOT staff hosted a public involvement meeting to provide timely updates on the WIS 38 bridge project. Future public involvement meetings and outreach efforts are expected as the project progresses.“After hearing the concerns from a number of businesses and community members, I would like to thank the Wisconsin Department of Transportation for being receptive to our input on the Rapids Drive Bridge project,” City of Racine Mayor Cory Mason said. “I am working closely with WisDOT to understand the future of the project and encourage the community to contribute to the public engagement process over the next few months as we all are in this together.”
WisDOT recognizes the impacts for businesses located in or near work zones. In conjunction with the new project schedule, WisDOT staff are reevaluating the alternative to keep the bridge open during construction, and identifying potential travel impacts while replacing the 60-year-old bridge.
The reconstruction project will address the deteriorated bridge structure built over the Root River and improve overall traffic operations and safety within the project corridor. Further updates on the WIS 38 bridge project will be provided on the website, https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/projects/by-region/se/38rootriver/default.aspx.
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.
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WIS 241 Closed Near Root River in Milwaukee County Due to Flooding
Apr 17th, 2026 by Wisconsin Department of TransportationWIS 241 (27th Street) in the city of Frankin is currently closed due high water levels at the Root River. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) encourages drivers to be aware of changing travel conditions. “Know before you go” with 511 Wisconsin, 511wi.gov or via the free app, to view highway closures impacted by flooding and weather alerts across the state. Current highway closure: Milwaukee County WIS 241 (27th Street) near the Root River is closed in both directions, Milwaukee County The timeline for reopening these roads remains unknown, as river levels are still cresting, and additional rain is anticipated. WisDOT officials are closely monitoring the roads and river levels and will reopen them as soon as it is safe to do so. While it’s difficult to predict if or where flooding may occur, WisDOT offers these tips: Flooding conditions may change rapidly so drive with caution at all times. Never drive through standing water or around barriers. As the safety slogan goes, “Turn Around, Don’t Drown!” It only takes a foot of rushing water to sweep away or float most cars and just two feet of rushing water can carry away SUVs and trucks. Just six inches of floodwater will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control and possible stalling. Stay alert and slow down. Follow designated detour routes if state, county and local roads experience flooding. If you must travel, check 511 Wisconsin for the latest information on any road closures or impacts.
