Reconstruction project on WIS 13 in Washburn to start

Work to include replacing pavement, utilities, curb, gutter, sidewalk and streetlights

Release date: March 5, 2024

To invest in Wisconsin's transportation system, Gov. Tony Evers has signed an $8.32 million contract with prime contractor Hoffman Construction Co. of Black River Falls for a pavement replacement project on WIS 13 from Thompson Creek to 2nd Avenue West in the Bayfield County city of Washburn. Construction is scheduled to start Monday, March 11.

The existing pavement has reached the end of its service life. To address this and other issues, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation project will:

• Replace the pavement on WIS 13.
• Replace storm sewer, curb, gutter and sidewalk.
• Replace or upgrade all intersection curb ramps to meet Americans With Disabilities Act standards.
• Replace streetlights.

The city of Washburn also will have a concurrent project replacing aging sewer and water utilities.

During construction, WIS 13 will be closed beginning Monday, March 18.

• Initially, traffic will be detoured via West Bigelow Street, West Holman Lakeview Drive, Omaha Street East and 2nd Avenue West.
• Once construction is completed on WIS 13 between Washington Avenue and 2nd Avenue West, the detour route will follow West Bigelow Street, West Holman Lakeview Drive, Omaha Street East and Washington Avenue.
• Truck traffic will be detoured via US 2, County A and WIS 13.
• Access to homes, businesses and Wikdal Park will be maintained.
• Cross street access will be maintained at 8th Avenue West and one other intersection between 8th Avenue West and 2nd Avenue West.

For more information on this project, visit the project's 511 website: projects.511wi.gov/wis13washburn/.

Motorists are reminded that using handheld cell phones in Wisconsin work zones is illegal. Alerts and updates provided via these sites are not intended for use while driving. When driving, your focus should always be on driving.