MONROE — The latest step of the Wis. 11 construction project will involve closing the westbound Wisconsin 69 on- and off-ramps and opening the westbound Wis. 59 on- and off-ramps.

That change is set to take place Friday, Oct. 25, though the thus-far wet fall could push it a few days later. 

Ken Plowman, Fehr Graham Engineering & Environmental senior engineering technician, said that concrete paving was slowed down a bit by rain, so while Friday is still the goal, the ramp opening and closure could get pushed to early next week.

He noted that if the date does change that the electronic highway message boards will be updated with that information.

Looking ahead, Plowman said the end of November is still the goal for completing the entire project, but perhaps some touch-up work would happen in early December. If so, he said it would be “minor stuff.”

Plowman didn’t feel that cold weather would present any problems. 

“The staff is working with contractors to make sure any temperature-sensitive items are completed before it’s too cold,” he said.

If necessary, there’s also an additive that can be put into asphalt to allow for proper paving in cold temperatures, said Plowman. 

The overhaul of nearly 6 miles on Wis. 11 began in late March for the reconstruction of the highway and its bypasses. The project is addressing the deteriorating concrete and poor ride quality between Wis. 81 and Hiltbrand Lane and includes work on ramps at Wis. 11, 69 and 59. Work will also improve the intersections with County KK, Stauffacher Road, Richland Road and Hiltbrand.