Location
US 51, Manitowish River Bridge in the Vilas County town of Manitowish
Overview
Built in 1956, the existing bridge is nearing the end of its service life. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation is proposing to:
- Replace the bridge
- The new structure will be wider than the existing bridge.
- Replace approach slabs and the roadway on either side of the bridge
- Replace guardrail and pavement markings
The access to the existing boat landing in the southeast quadrant and the landing will be removed, and that area will be restored to a natural setting. As part of the project, a new access will be built in the northwest quadrant to provide access to a new boat landing.
Traffic and Other Impacts
During construction:
- The bridge will be closed to traffic.
- Through traffic will be detoured via US 51, WIS 47 and US 51.
- A portion of the shared-use trail in the vicinity of the project will be closed for up to two weeks during construction operations.
- A detour will be used to direct recreational river users to a portage around the Manitowish River bridge during construction operations.
Schedule
The current proposed schedule includes:
- Holding a public involvement meeting - January 2025
- Completing project design - May 2026
- Soliciting bids for the project - September 2026
- Completing construction - 2027
Public Involvement
WisDOT is hosting a public involvement meeting to share project details and obtain public input.
- When: 5 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025
- A presentation is planned for 5:15 p.m.
- Where: Manitowish Waters Town Hall, 5733 Airport Road
Comments on the proposed project are being accepted through Jan. 31, 2025, by: