November 14, 2025
Wisconsin DOT Traffic Study Shows Delays, Congestion Risks if I-794 Freeway Is Removed
New analysis finds freeway removal could worsen traffic flow and travel times across downtown Milwaukee
Published November 7, 2025

The long-debated I-794 Lake Interchange project in Milwaukee is advancing as new state traffic studies reveal the potential impacts of four proposed redesign options. The project focuses on the 1.5-mile stretch of freeway connecting the Marquette Interchange and the Hoan Bridge.

According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), the options include keeping the highway as-is (“replace in kind”), two “improvement” alternatives that modify the current layout while retaining the freeway, and one full “removal” alternative that would eliminate the elevated roadway.

The newly released 2050 traffic study found that removing I-794 could significantly increase congestion, while the other alternatives would have little to no effect on traffic. Under the removal option, intersections in the study area could experience an additional 11 seconds of wait time on average. Vehicle hours traveled would rise by 58% compared to other scenarios, and delays over the Clybourn Street lift bridge could be five to eight times longer.

By contrast, both improvement and replace-in-kind options would maintain smoother traffic flow and reduce overall travel delays, according to WisDOT’s findings. (RELATED: Wisconsin Bill Proposes Speed Limiter Devices for Repeat Reckless Drivers)

The study also modeled commuter routes across the city, showing that a typical seven-mile drive from I-43 at Locust Street to I-43 at Howard Avenue could increase from about 7–12 minutes today to over 20 minutes in the morning and more than 30 minutes in the evening under removal or major improvement scenarios, according to BizTimes.

WisDOT officials said the study marks the halfway point in the multi-year planning process. The next public meeting, scheduled for spring 2026, will focus on environmental and economic impacts, freight movement near Port Milwaukee, and safety. A preferred alternative is expected by late 2026, with final selection projected for 2030. (RELATED: Wisconsin Representative Bryan Steil Introduces Bill to Block Congressional Pay During Shutdowns)