WIS 32, Forest County Line to US 45, Oneida County

Location

WIS 32, Forest County Line to US 45, Oneida County

Project Overview

To address roadway deficiencies, structure deficiencies and safety, WisDOT is proposing: 

  • Mill existing pavement and replace the top two inches with asphalt pavement 
  • Replacing structure C-43-16 steel culvert with a new structure at the Whitefish Lake Outlet waterway passage
  • Concrete deck overlay and surface repairs at structure B-43-31 at Big Stone Lake and Deer Lake
  • Culvert replacements throughout the corridor
  • Replace guardrail systems
  • Replace curb and gutter at US 45 intersection
  • Widen existing shoulders to 5-foot paved width shoulders along sharp horizontal curves and between the Golf Course Loop and Airport Road

Traffic Impacts

During construction, a signed detour route will be posted for the C-43-16 structure replacement at the Whitefish Lake outlet passage. The proposed detour route would utilize US 8 and US 45. WIS 32 will remain open to local traffic with flagging operations. A single-lane crossing with temporary traffic signals will be used at structure B-43-31 for concrete deck overlay and surface repairs. Access to all businesses and properties will be maintained at all times.

Real Estate

Additional right of way will be required for this project. Temporary easements are required for grading and minor fee acquisitions are anticipated to accommodateproposed improvements. WisDOT expects to begin real estate acquisitions in spring 2026.

Schedule

  • Local officials meeting: Oct. 9, 2025
  • Public involvement meeting: Oct. 29, 2025
  • Final Right of Way Plat: March 2026
  • Real Estate Negotiations: August 2026 to September 2027
  • Final plans: Nov. 1, 2027
  • Construction currently scheduled 2030 but could occur as early as 2028 if funds become available

Public Involvement

A public involvement meeting will be held Oct. 29, 2025 at 5 pm at the Three Lakes Municipal Building, 6965 West School Street, Three Lakes, WI 54562. A brief presentation will be held at 5:15 pm. The rest of the meeting will follow an open house format. The following information will be shared:


Contacts

Marijean Hoppe, Project Manager
715-365-5880
Rhinelander Office
510 N. Hanson Lake Rd.
Rhinelander, WI 54501
(715) 365-3490
WI Telecommunications Relay System (TTY): 711
Fax: (715) 365-5780

Wisconsin Rapids Office
1681 2nd Ave. S.
Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54495
(715) 421-8302
WI Telecommunications Relay System (TTY): 711
Fax: (715) 423-0334