DOT Considers Double-Decker Freeway Near Miller Park In Milwaukee

Governor Scott Walker says there may be a way to double-deck Interstate 94 near Miller Park in Milwaukee.

The state Department of Transportation (DOT) is getting ready to replace the I-94/US-45 zoo interchange in western Milwaukee County. The DOT also has studies underway as to how to try later to reduce rush-hour congestion between the rebuilt interchange to just east of Miller Park.

One idea that’s been floated is to double deck part of I-94. Walker says things are still in the discussion stage, but he says there may be a way to both avoid disturbing adjacent cemeteries and keep from building a very tall freeway.

“Originally before even the DOT was heavily involved, they looking at … a potential double-decker concept that wouldn’t be any higher than the current bridge you have going from Wood National [Cemetery] across the way to the north end out there,” says Walker.

Construction crews might have to lower the roadbed to keep the height of the upper deck of the freeway to about 25 feet. But the DOT says digging in would be more expensive.

Some people who live in the Story Hill neighborhood next to the freeway say they worry about the state sacrificing their quality of life just to help commuters.