MILWAUKEE — We've been dealing with road construction projects for months. In some cases, even years. Now, because of the snow and cold, it looks like we'll be dealing with road construction even longer.
Wisconsin DOT spokesman Michael Pyritz said several rounds of snow followed by this cold snap has been tough on crews, but with a majority of projects nearing completion, the weather will only cost them an extra couple days.
Usually when the white stuff falls orange cones go away marking the end of construction season. Tony Bartoli knows that isn't the case along E. Capitol Drive where workers are bearing the elements to finish the job.
"Honestly, I've been avoiding it for the past three months," Bartoli said. "The last time I went it took me almost 20 minutes to get from here to the expressway."
Pyritz said crews only work year-round on the biggest projects like the I-94 north/south construction. Smaller jobs like along Greenfield Ave and 1st Street will wrap up before winter officially arrives.
"We're certainly fighting the weather, the onset of the winter conditions rather early in the year has definitely impacted the crews and the equipment that's out in the field," Pyritz said.
Surprisingly, Pyritz said rain in September has been more problematic than recent snow.
"It was the third wettest September on record and the timing of that rain and the impact that rain had on the projects was actually a lot more challenging for the crews and the ability for everybody to keep the projects on time," he said.
When it comes to E. Capitol Drive road and bridge construction, Pyritz said the job is expected to be completed by the end of next week. That's welcome news for Bartoli and his business.
"I'm hopeful because we're getting into the busiest part of our year," he said.
For a full list of highway projects and deadlines in southeastern Wisconsin, click here.
