The public is invited to comment on a number of proposed changes to Highway 70 at Eagle River. The purpose of the project is to address the pavement which is showing signs of deterioration. The proposed changes would be from county "H" to U.S. 45.
Department of Transportation Project Manager Dan Erva says there are a number of conditions that need attending. The highways 17 and 70 intersection will be changed with new islands and pavement markings. Drainage will be improved at the boat landing located southeast of that intersection. A key proposed change is the number of lanes...
"We are evaluating the existing driving lanes between Wisconsin 70 and U.S. 45 north for reduction of four lanes to three lanes to reduce crashes..."
Erva says there are possible outcomes to the lane configuration, including keeping four lanes...
"The four-lane alternative would look just like the existing roadway does today and there would be no changes to the existing lanes or shoulders. A three-lane configuration would consist of a center two-way turn lane, one travel lane in each direction and a paved shoulder..."
He says the three-lane option is similar to other work done on Highway 70 just east of U.S. 45. Erva says the three-lane option results in fewer crashes, especially for left turns and rear-end crashes. He says it will also work for bicycles and other vehicles.
To comment on the changes, Erva says you can go to the DOT website and fill out a public comment form, or contact him via email or telephone. Contact Erva at 715-365-5776 or Daniel.Erva@dot.wi.gov
