Overview
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) is proposing an improvement project that includes replacing the pavement and resurfacing sections along WIS 181, from Wisconsin Avenue to Center Street, in the city of Wauwatosa, Milwaukee County.
Proposed Improvements
WisDOT is proposing to replace or resurface the existing pavement along the project corridor. Additional improvements include:
- Replace all traffic signals with modern design.
- Reconstruct the storm sewer system.
- Reconstruct all non-ADA compliant curb ramps and bus stops to meet current standards.
- Make improvements at multiple intersections to improve traffic flow.
- Glenview Avenue and Harwood Avenue intersection
- Harwood Avenue and Harmonee Avenue intersection
- Harmonee Avenue and Wauwatosa Avenue intersection
- Wauwatosa Avenue and Milwaukee Avenue intersection
- Wauwatosa Avenue and North Avenue intersection (evaluating multiple alternatives)
- Bridge overlay and maintenance with sidewalk widening over the Menomonee River/CP Railroad.
- The city of Wauwatosa is planning to replace the sanitary sewer and water lines with the project.
Traffic Impacts
Due to the project scope, there will be full closures of WIS 181 with posted detours. Additional details are still being discussed. Access to local businesses and residences will be maintained.
Public Involvement
WisDOT, in partnership with the city of Wauwatosa, is hosting a public involvement meeting for this proposed project. This will be an open-house style meeting. Members of the community are welcome to attend to meet project staff and view project materials. Meeting details below:
- Wednesday, November 19, 2025
- 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
- Wauwatosa Civic Center (lower level of Wauwatosa City Hall – 7725 West North Avenue)
View meeting invite
View project newsletter
Right of Way Impacts
Right of way will be required for the project at various locations. Right of way needs will be determined during preliminary design.
Schedule
The project is tentatively scheduled to begin in 2030.
Status
Early design phase - If you have any comments or questions about this project, please feel free to contact the project representatives below.
Contact Information
Douglas Cain
WisDOT Design Project Manager
262-548-5603
douglas.cain@dot.wi.gov
Chris Verhyen
WisDOT SE Region Communications
262-548-8757
chris.verhyen@dot.wi.gov