Congress Approves Transition Of Major Roadway Into Interstate

Congress has given the green light to convert Highway 41, a major artery in eastern Wisconsin, into an interstate.

Congress signed off on “grandfathering” in trucks weighing more than 80,000 pounds, the normal interstate weight limit. Tammy Rabe, a project manager with the state Department of Transportation, said heavier trucks hauling timber and other agricultural products are now able to use the road. Otherwise, she said, drivers won’t notice much difference.

“Really the big change is they will be seeing blue and red Interstate 41 signs up and down the corridor, starting just south of the state line where U.S. 41 joins with I-94 all the way up to Green Bay,” said Rabe.

There are 3,500 signs that need to be replaced. Rabe said work will begin next summer or fall.

Ultimately, she said the main benefit of the conversion will be for businesses who can use interstate access as a marketing tool.

Budget-wise, Rabe says the conversion from a state highway to an interstate will be “a wash.” The state will still be responsible for all maintenance on the road.