Construction on southbound US 53 multi-bridge project to resume

Work in 2026 includes replacing one bridge and rehabbing two other structures

Release date: February 16, 2026

Construction on a multiyear improvement project rehabilitating or replacing bridges on southbound US 53 in Barron County between Cameron and New Auburn is anticipated to resume Monday, February 23; that start is weather dependent.

Construction in 2026 includes:

• Replacing the decks on the bridges over the Chetek River and 20th Street
• Replacing the bridge over County I
• Milling pavement on both sides of each structure and placing new asphalt pavement on the approaches
• Milling and overlaying the pavement on the southbound US 53 on- and off-ramps at the County I interchange
• Replacing guardrail, pavement markings and signage

Construction in 2025 included replacing the decks on the bridges over County AA and County A and overlaying the decks with concrete on bridges over Carlson School Road, Knapp Street and US 8. All structures were built in 1972.

Once construction resumes, motorists will encounter single-lane closures in both directions on County I. Work on southbound US 53 is anticipated to begin in early March, and motorists will encounter single-lane closures of the southbound lanes.

The prime contractor on the $10.7 million project is Zenith Tech, Inc. of Waukesha.

Construction in 2026 is scheduled for completion in October.

For more information, visit the project’s construction website.

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.