Release date: July 23, 2026
Reconstruction work is underway along WIS 54, between Wisconsin Rapids and Plover, in Wood and Portage counties. Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) North Central Region leaders, Wisconsin State Patrol and industry partners today offered a behind-the-barrel experience to area media while emphasizing the message of safe, responsible driving – especially in work zones.
During the four-month WIS 54 project, the highway is reduced to a single lane in each direction. The 13-mile project extends from an urban area in Wisconsin Rapids to a rural area with factories and businesses back to an urban area in Plover.
“Traffic conditions can change fast in work zones,” said WisDOT North Central Region Director Matt Bronson. “Especially in work zones like WIS 54 where it transitions from rural to urban settings. Traffic may drastically slow down or suddenly stop in front of you, so it's important for drivers to eliminate distractions, allow ample distance between you and the car in front of you, and follow the posted speed limit.”
Speeding, tailgating and distracted driving are the leading causes of work zone crashes in Wisconsin. More than 2,000 crashes were recorded in Wisconsin work zones in 2025, resulting in seven deaths and more than 600 injuries. These choices behind the wheel are preventable and WisDOT urges drivers to stay aware in work zones.
“Speeding and distracted driving are major concerns on our roadways, with more than 15,000 speed citations and warning issued by our officers in the region last year,” said Wisconsin State Patrol Lieutenant Wrycha. “Our officers regularly monitor work zones to encourage safe driving and prevent crashes. Construction crews are often working feet from traffic and rely on motorists to keep them safe. Please slow down and stay off your phone— lives are at stake.”
Today's media tour held along the WIS 54 project corridor in Wood and Portage counties continues WisDOT's season-long campaign to increase work zone safety messaging across the state. In Wisconsin, work zones include highway construction and rolling maintenance operations as well as emergency response, municipal projects and utility work along local roads. WisDOT engages with the Wisconsin County Highway Association, the Wisconsin Transportation Builders Association and others in the transportation industry to promote safe driving in work zones.
How can you help keep work zones safe?
- Drive safely. Be courteous, avoid distractions and obey posted speed limits.
- Park the phone when driving. Texting while driving is illegal statewide and talking on a hand-held mobile device is illegal in work zones.
- Move over or slow down. Give space to crews to safely do their work.
- State law includes police and fire vehicles, ambulances, tow trucks, highway maintenance and disabled vehicles. In addition, state law restricts the use of a cell phone in areas surrounding those vehicles.
- Buckle Up, Phone Down. Take the pledge at wisconsindot.gov/BUPD.
- Visit WisDOT's work zone safety webpage for more tips and information.
For more information, contact:
WisDOT Office of Public Affairs
(608) 266-3581,
opa.exec@dot.wi.gov