The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) is in the process of developing plans for proposed improvements to 7.9 miles of WIS 32 in Oconto County. The purpose of this website is to provide information regarding the proposed improvements, describe the potential impacts they would have on the community, and offer an opportunity for public comment. Comments may also be submitted via email or phone to any of the contacts listed below.
Project location
WIS 32 from Big Hill Lane in Lakewood to the north county line near Carter in Oconto County.
Project purpose and need
The purpose of this project is to address the deteriorating asphaltic pavement condition and improve roadway drainage and safety. The existing asphaltic pavement is showing signs of deterioration throughout the project and needs resurfacing. Cross culverts are showing signs of corrosion, damage, and/or silting which could lead to failure and increased safety hazard to motorists. Existing guardrail is reaching the end of its expected service life and needs updating.
Proposed improvements
WisDOT is proposing a resurfacing-level improvement for the project. Proposed improvements include:
- Milling off 2” of the existing pavement, cold-in-place recycling 3” of existing asphalt underneath, and repaving new asphaltic pavement
- Corrugated steel culvert replacements and lining
- Guardrail replacement
- Possible curb and gutter and storm inlet spot repairs
- Pavement marking
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View locations of construction operations on a map (PDF)
- Includes 4f sections noted on map.
Anticipated benefits
This project will provide motorists with a smoother riding surface resulting in improved safety and less wear on vehicles. It will also extend the life of the highway pavement, decrease future maintenance costs, and save taxpayer dollars in the future. Culvert and inlet work will help move water from the roadway resulting in a safer driving surface during storm events. New guardrail and pavement marking will increase safety and visibility of marking alerting motorists to important information.
Traffic impacts
During construction, WIS 32 is currently expected to remain open except for some short-term closures during culvert replacements. Traffic will be reduced to one lane utilizing flagging operations during milling and paving work. The roadway will be opened to two lanes of traffic when no construction work is being done.
Schedule
- Preliminary design: Summer 2023 – Summer 2025
- Final design: Summer 2025 – January 2027
- Construction currently scheduled in 2028
Real estate
Temporary limited easements will be needed during culvert lining for equipment access. Some 4f property TLE will be needed for culvert and roadway work. A member of the real estate team will contact any property owner whose property may be needed during construction.
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 businesses, 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
- Temporary business signing information during road closures
- Visit WisDOT’s In This Together website at
www.wisconsindot.gov/Together
Public input/comments
Your comments assist us in developing a project that will serve the needs of the traveling public, as well as the needs of the local community and are welcomed and appreciated throughout the design process. Please submit comments to WisDOT using one of the following methods so that we receive them by the comment date to be considered during design.
Project contact
Kurt Vogel, P.E.
Project Manager – Marinette & Oconto Counties
Wisconsin Department of Transportation
944 Vanderperren Way
Green Bay, WI 54304
Phone: (920) 362-1732
Email:
kurt.vogel@dot.wi.gov