Proposed work includes removing and replacing Otter Creek Bridge east of the US 12/US 53 interchange
Release date: February 27, 2026
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) is holding a public involvement meeting to share details about the proposed replacement of the bridge that carries US 12 over Otter Creek in the Eau Claire County town of Washington east of the US 12/US 53 interchange.
- When: 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, March 12
- The meeting will be open-house format.
- Where: L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library, 400 Eau Claire St., Eau Claire, in the RCU Dabble Box Makerspace meeting room
Built in 1988, the bridge is nearing the end of its service life. WisDOT is proposing to:
- Replace the existing structure with a new bridge
- Reconstruct the roadway approaches on both sides of the bridge
- Improve a westbound left-turn lane median taper
- Replace guardrail, storm sewer, fencing, signage and pavement markings
- Make lighting modifications
Construction will be staged to allow US 12 to remain open to traffic. During work, two lanes of eastbound US 12 and one lane of westbound US 12 will always remain open.
Construction currently is scheduled for 2028.
More information can be found on the project website. WisDOT is seeking public input on the proposed work through April 16 by:
- Email: daniel.rambo@dot.wi.gov
- Mail: Wisconsin Department of Transportation718 W. Clairemont Ave.Eau Claire, WI 54701Attn.: Daniel Rambo
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.
For more information regarding traffic impacts, transportation news and improvement project updates in Wisconsin’s Northwest Region:
For more information, contact:
Christena T. O'Brien, Northwest Region Communications Manager
(715) 833-9814, (715) 828-9471,
christena.obrien@dot.wi.gov