Project Overview
WisDOT is proposing to replace the existing structure along US 8 that carries the Rat River below US 8. The primary purpose of this project is to replace the deteriorating structure and replace it with a new bridge structure to ensure long-term crossing over the Rat River along US 8. The need for the project is to improve structural, operational and safety deficiencies. The existing timber substructure is reaching the end of its service life and needs to be repaired due to signs of decay, section loss and displacement. The steel deck girder has been deemed in poor condition based on recent inspection. Operationally, the structure has a substandard clear width of 31.7 feet. WisDOT Facilities Development Manual (FDM) reflects a minimum requirement of 36 feet for the prescribed roadway classification and traffic volume for US 8 at the Rat River crossing. The existing guardrail systems that attach to the existing structure railing and the metal railing itself do not meet current design standards.
Proposed improvements include:
- Replacing the existing culvert structure C-21-50 with a new concrete girder bridge that spans the river wide enough to include aquatic organism passages below the US 8
- 14-foot wide, barrier separated crossing for a future shared-use path, or ATV/UTV path on northside
- New guardrail systems that meet current design standards
- New Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) pavement on each side of the structure
- Substructure will be wide enough to accommodate a future barrier separated share-use path or an ATV/UTV trail crossing on southside
Traffic Impacts
Construction currently is scheduled to begin in 2029 but could occur as early as 2027. The new structure along US 8 is anticipated to be constructed in halves. Temporary traffic signals will be installed to allow traffic to cross the structure from one direction at a time.
Real Estate
No real estate acquisition is anticipated
Schedule
- Local officials meeting: September 8, 2025
- Public involvement Period: September 29, 2025
- Preliminary plans: October 1, 2025
- Environmental Document: November 1, 2025
- Final plans: May 1, 2025
- Construction currently scheduled 2029, could be as early as 2027 if funds become available
Public Involvement
A public involvement period will be held, beginning September 29, 2025.