The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) is in the process of developing plans for proposed improvements on 2.2 miles of WIS 42 in Door County. This website provides information regarding the proposed improvements, describe the potential impacts it would have on the community, and offer an opportunity for public comment.
Project location
WIS 42 from a point just west of the west junction with Wisconsin Bay Road in the community of Gills Rock to the Ferry Landing in the community of Northport, town of Liberty Grove, Door County, Wisconsin. The road is part of the Door County Coastal Byway and a National Scenic Byway.
Wisconsin Highway 42 is known for its curvy stretch between Timberline Road and Porte des Morts Drive in Door County. The road's 15 curves are a popular destination for photographers and drivers.
- This project will not alter any of the unique curves or spectacular views while driving the roadway.
Are you wondering why the roadway is curvy? For history about the roadway, please see the Destination Door County website.
Project purpose and need
The purpose of this project is to address the deteriorating roadway pavement and increase the overall service life of the roadway. Currently, there is existing transverse and longitudinal cracking throughout the project length that allows water to infiltrate the roadway base, which increases potential for freeze-thaw damage. Alligator cracking also exists at spot locations along the roadway, which indicates a lack of solid base support under those sections of pavement.
Proposed improvements
NOTE: This project will NOT alter any of the geometry of the curves. This is a resurfacing-level project. Proposed improvements include:
- Milling/removing the top 2” of existing asphaltic pavement on lanes and shoulders.
- Full depth repairing of base and pavement at spot locations.
- Repairing curb and gutter at spot locations.
- Paving 2” of new hot mix asphalt (HMA) surface.
- Top dressing the existing gravel shoulders with fresh dense base aggregate.
- Cleaning of storm sewer culverts/structures
- Pavement marking
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View roadway typical sections
Anticipated benefits
The proposed improvement will increase the longevity of the pavement structure and provide motorists with a smoother riding surface, which will result in less wear on vehicles, improved safety for highway users, and less maintenance costs. The fresh pavement and lane markings will also improve the appearance of this popular and commonly photographed section of roadway in Door County.
Traffic impacts
WIS 42 will remain open to traffic during construction. Work will be performed under single lane closures via standard flagging operations.
Schedule
- Public Involvement: January/February 2025
- Environmental document approval: March 2025
- Preliminary project design: Through April 2025
- Final Design: May 2025 – April 2027
- Letting (as currently scheduled): July 2028
- Construction is currently scheduled for fall 2028, but could be advanced to fall 2027 if additional funding becomes available.
No work or lane closures will occur on WIS 42 during the peak summer traffic period from the Independence Day holiday through the Labor Day holiday. Work and lane closures will also be restricted during other standard holidays and various select peak traffic weekends.
Real estate
Real estate acquisition is not anticipated for this project.
Business Resource: WisDOT’s In This Together program
WisDOT recognizes businesses located in work zones or impacted by detour routes have special needs. WisDOT's In This Together program is offered to business, organizations, and community leaders as an idea source as they plan for road construction in their area. It includes promotional examples, case studies and a specially designed Business Coordination Guide with information on:
- Planning ahead
- Staying informed
- Keeping customers informed
- Tips for businesses
WisDOT’s In This Together website is located at
www.wisconsindot.gov/Together. Note: Businesses impacted by full highway closures and detours will have an opportunity for temporary business signage during construction. No full detours are expected with this project.
Public input/comments
Your comments assist us in developing a project that will serve the needs of the traveling public and local community. Comments are welcomed and appreciated. To be considered for design, please submit comments to WisDOT using one of the following methods so that we receive them by February 21, 2025.
- Fill out the postage-paid comment form attached to the below document and mail to WisDOT.
- Email comments to the contact listed below.
- Call the contact below.
Project contact
Paul Brauer, P.E., Project Manager
Wisconsin Department of Transportation
944 Vanderperren Way
Green Bay, WI 54304
Phone: (920) 492-5629
Email: paul.brauer@dot.wi.gov