WisDOT seeking input on WIS 13 pavement improvement project

Replacing pavement now proposed for work from Douglas County line to County A

Release date: April 10, 2026

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) is holding a public involvement meeting to share information and obtain public input about a pavement improvement project on WIS 13 from the Douglas County line to County A in Port Wing, all in Bayfield County, as project details have changed.

• When: 7 p.m. Thursday, April 16
• Where: Port Wing Fire Hall, 83030 Pennsylvania Ave.

Originally, this section of WIS 13 was slated for resurfacing. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation is now proposing:

• Milling top layer of existing asphalt
• Pulverizing and mixing the existing asphalt and base aggregate with an asphalt emulsion to stabilize the base
• Paving with new asphalt, matching points of access along WIS 13 and marking pavement
• Placing and shaping gravel to build existing gravel shoulders up to match level of new paved surface
• Repairing abutments on the Iron River and Fish Creek bridges with grout
• Adding riprap at the Iron River and Fish Creek bridges and the Jardine Creek and Pohler Creek box culverts to prevent further erosion
• Removing brush for maintenance and to allow access for construction activities
• Replacing existing guardrail, including grading slopes behind guardrail to meet current standards

During construction, WIS 13 will be open to traffic before and after the bulk of the pavement replacement project. Motorists might encounter lane closures controlled by flagging or shoulder closures.

During pavement replacement, WIS 13 will be closed to through traffic for at least eight to ten weeks. Through traffic will be detoured via Bayfield County A, US 2 and Douglas County F. Access will be maintained to properties in the work zone.

Construction currently is scheduled for 2028.

More information about the project can be found on the project’s website, including a comment form. Comments on the project are being accepted through May 31.

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.