Wisconsin Truck Parking Will Be Improved Through a $12.5M Grant

The State of Wisconsin has been awarded $12.5 million in federal funding to improve two key rest areas along the I-43 corridor between Green Bay and Manitowoc. These upgrades will expand Wisconsin truck parking, improve safety, and update the aging facilities. The funding, part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, was secured through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Infrastructure for Rebuilding America program.

Expanding Parking for Wisconsin Truck Drivers

One major improvement will be the addition of 72 new parking spaces for trucks across the two rest areas. This expansion will increase parking capacity by 280%, helping truckers find safe places to park and rest. Lack of truck parking has been a long-standing issue, leading to drivers parking in unsafe or unauthorized areas.

The project will also add brighter lighting to the parking areas, improving safety for drivers during overnight stays. In addition, a staging area for oversized loads will be included to make it easier for specialized hauls to operate smoothly.

Upgrading Facilities to Meet Modern Standards

The two rest areas, Maribel Rest Area 51 and Denmark Rest Area 52, are more than 40 years old. Both will be fully modernized to better serve today’s travelers. The upgrades will fix worn pavement, ramps, and shoulders.

The rest areas will also meet updated accessibility standards, including ADA compliance. New amenities will include updated restrooms, better pedestrian access, and universal changing stations.

Collaborative Efforts to Secure Funding

Governor Tony Evers expressed gratitude for the federal support, highlighting the importance of the grant in keeping roads safe and helping the trucking industry. Senator Tammy Baldwin also played a key role in securing the funding, emphasizing that I-43 is essential for businesses moving goods across Wisconsin.

Supporting the Wisconsin Truck Industry, Economy, and Infrastructure

The improvements to the I-43 rest areas are part of a larger push to upgrade Wisconsin’s roads and infrastructure. With funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the state will receive about $5.4 billion over the next five years to improve highways and bridges. Already, $6 billion has been allocated for more than 500 projects across the state.

These upgrades will help make Wisconsin’s roads safer and improve the flow of goods, benefiting both truck drivers and the economy.

Looking Ahead

The $12.5 million federal grant will expand truck parking and modernize two rest areas along I-43. These upgrades will help truckers find safe places to rest and ensure the facilities meet modern needs. Wisconsin’s investment in infrastructure is part of a long-term plan to support economic growth and improve safety for everyone on the road.