WisDOT seeking input on project rehabbing six I-94 bridges

Work planned on structures over WIS 37, the Chippewa River and Chippewa River overflow

Release date: July 20, 2026

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) is seeking public input on a proposed project rehabilitating bridges carrying east- and westbound I-94 over WIS 37, the Chippewa River and Chippewa River overflow, all in Eau Claire County.

The public is encouraged to visit the project website, review a presentation and other information and submit comments by Friday, Aug. 7 by: 

  • Email: adam.hetrick@dot.wi.gov
  • Mail: Wisconsin Department of Transportation
             718 W. Clairemont Ave.
             Eau Claire, WI 54701
             Attn.: Adam Hetrick

Built in the 1960s, the bridges need repairs. WisDOT is proposing:

  • Replacing the expansion joints and abutment backwalls at all structures
  • Overlaying the bridge decks on the structures over the Chippewa River and Chippewa River overflow with concrete
  • Making concrete surface repairs to components on all six bridges
  • Placing a high-friction surface treatment on the deck of the eastbound structure over the Chippewa River
  • Cleaning and painting bearings on all four bridges over the Chippewa River and Chippewa River overflow
  • Updating guardrail at all bridge approaches

The project originally only included the work on the Chippewa River and Chippewa River overflow bridges.

During construction, I-94 will remain open to traffic, but motorists will be shifted to one side of the interstate via median crossovers that will carry one lane of traffic in each direction as work is completed on the bridges on the other side. 

Construction currently is scheduled for 2028 and 2029.

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

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