Interview with D.O.T. Safety Engineer Michael Wendt on proposed safety improvement options:
The State Department Of Transportation presented 3 financially feasible options for improving safety at the HWY 29/ U intersection during a presentation in Shawano County Board room. Nine people have died in traffic accidents at the intersection dating back to 2003.The 3 proposals that were suggested by the D.O.T.:
A median “U” turn, estimated cost – $1.9 million
Flatten and grading of west bound lanes – $1.8 million
“J” Turn – $2.3 million
A proposal for a diamond interchange fell to the wayside unless the county can come up with funding to support the project which would cost over $17 million.
The D.O.T., which is promoting the “J” turn option, is already in the design element of the proposal. The state will meet again with local officials in fall of 2019 for final input. Design selection takes place in February of 2020; bid selection would be in March of that year, with construction beginning in June of 2021.
