Release date November 20, 2023
Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) Secretary Craig Thompson today joined federal, state and local officials in La Crosse to celebrate completion of the US 14 / South Avenue reconstruction project. Construction on the $16.5 million project, which began in 2022, is expected to be substantially complete on Wednesday (Nov. 22).
“The South Avenue project showcases our commitment to deliver safe and reliable infrastructure for all modes of transportation," WisDOT Secretary Thompson said. “I am extremely proud to stand here today with the stakeholders who made this project happen. Together we are making strategic transportation investments in local communities to ensure Wisconsinites and visitors have safe and convenient access to work, school, neighborhoods and businesses.”
The new roadway is expected to enhance safety and provide better connections to the neighborhoods and businesses along South Avenue. WisDOT worked with the City of La Crosse to deliver this project based on input provided by a citizen advisory group, La Crosse residents and business owners.
“Residents of La Crosse and visitors to our city will be pleased by the improvements to this critical corridor for our community,” La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds said. “We are grateful for the years of preparation work it has taken to finalize this project and appreciate the close working relationship we have had with the Department of Transportation in bringing South Avenue to the finish line.”
“This investment in South Avenue will continue to move La Crosse forward by strengthening our infrastructure and growing our economy,” Senator Brad Pfaff said. “The project highlights the importance of local collaboration and will be great for the pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers that travel through here every day.”
The project reconstructed a one-mile segment of South Avenue and built roundabouts at West Avenue, 16th Street, and Ward Avenue. The project also replaced utilities and deteriorating pavement between Green Bay Street and Ward Avenue. Bicycle and pedestrian accommodations were also enhanced along this heavily used corridor on the south side of La Crosse.
The project was funded by the Federal Highway Administration, WisDOT and the City of La Crosse.
For more information, contact:
Michael Bie
WisDOT Southwest Region Communication Manager
(608) 246-7928
michael.bie@dot.wi.gov