27th Street bridge closure to increase commute times for drivers
MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The massive I-94 East-West expansion project is underway – and every new closure leads to longer commute times for drivers. Now, the state plans to close Milwaukee's 27th Street viaduct.
It seems no matter where you drive, you’re left seeing orange cones at every turn.
“We are in winter. It is already harsh on the population,” said Maria Gonçalvez-Ramos, a driver. “I wish it was planned better by the city.”
The latest closure in the Wisconsin Department of Transportation's (WisDOT) eight-year interstate expansion is the 27th Street bridge. Just last month, Milwaukee DPW was forced to close the 16th Street bridge after a safety inspection revealed damage.
With the 27th street bridge closing, the only way to cross the Menomonee Valley will be either on 6th Street or about two miles away on the 35th Street Bridge.
“I usually take the 27th and it used to be very quick. Not anymore,” said Gonçalvez-Ramos. “It was like 5 to 10 minutes. Now it is double that, like 15-20 sometimes depending.”
That means more traffic in residential areas like St. Paul Ave.
“Clustered lanes that were already clustered are getting worse because of that,” said Gonçalvez-Ramos.
Milwaukee Ald. Bob Bauman has opposed the closure, asking for the 27th Street bridge to remain open until the 16th Street bridge is repaired.
“I feel upset, but I understand the needs for the construction,” said Gonçalvez-Ramos.
CBS58 reached out to WisDOT but has not heard back. In the meantime, Milwaukeeans say this construction has become a part of their daily lives.
“It is. It is, definitely, but you gotta get it done,” said Frances. “I’m glad they’re doing this because there’s a lot of bumpy roads. You just gotta be patient I guess.”
