Wisconsin DOT to spend $12.5 million on more truck parking and trucker-friendly upgrades at I-43 rest areas

On Monday, Wisconsin officials announced the receipt of a federal grant to be used to “expand truck parking by 280 percent” at a pair of rest area locations along the I-43 corridor.

Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers announced that the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) received a $125 million federal grant for improvement projects at the two rest areas along I-43 between Green Bay and Manitowoc.

Officials say that they will reconstruct the 44-year-old facilities at Maribel Rest Area 51 and Denmark Rest Area 52, adding 72 commercial truck parking spaces across the two facilities.

Other upgrades include:

• Increasing high mast lighting in commercial motor vehicle parking lot to enhance personal security for truck drivers
• Modernizing the facilities and sites, including restroom facilities, ADA accessibility, and pedestrian access
• Adding an oversize-overweight staging area to support trucks hauling oversized loads
• Addressing roadway deficiencies, including pavement deterioration, ramp shoulders, and beam guard

“Thanks to Sen. Baldwin’s leadership, we were able to secure this critical investment to improve safety and accessibility in Northeast Wisconsin and support the trucking industry, which delivers the goods and services Wisconsinites depend on,” said Gov. Evers. “As the use of the I-43 corridor continues to grow, this is an investment in our state’s future, and we’re thrilled to have Sen. Baldwin’s support on this project.”

“I-43 is vital for our businesses to get their products on shelves and connects communities across Eastern Wisconsin,” said Sen. Baldwin. “After decades of heavy use, the outdated and deteriorating infrastructure isn’t up to par. That’s why I fought to secure this investment, reconstructing an important resource for truckers, helping ensure that goods get to market on time, and keeping Wisconsin drivers safe on our roads.”

“Our safety rest areas are vital resources for the trucking industry and travelers alike,” said WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman. “These facility upgrades will not only provide a safer, more welcoming environment for tourists, truckers, and commuters, they will meet the modern demands of the traveling public, which is crucial for safety and economic growth.”

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