6-lane expansion work on dangerous portion of interstate now delayed further
(Waukesha, WI) – On Thursday, July 3, 2025, Governor Tony Evers squashed a provision that was intended to provide critical funding for studying safety enhancements on I-94 between CTH SS and the Jefferson County line. Recent crash data shows the 12.5-mile corridor has a higher rate of fatal crashes, more than any other 4-lane interstate project currently under consideration for state funding. From 2019 to 2023, that segment had 1,446 crashes, 148 serious injuries and 6 fatalities. Two additional deadly crashes happened in 2024, including the death of a first responder.
“The Governor’s veto has just made Waukesha County less safe. The numbers don’t lie on the crash data and sadly, until improvements are made, fatalities will continue. The current condition of I-94 in western Waukesha County poses unacceptable risks to drivers and their families. By investing in safer road infrastructure, we protect lives, reduce accidents, and enhance mobility for our community,” County Executive Paul Farrow said.
This portion of I-94 was designed in the 1950s. Today, commuter volume has surpassed its capacity. Daily, about 55,000 to 75,000 vehicles use that portion of I-94. A particularly dangerous location is the westbound lane drop at CTH SS/Prospect Avenue which experiences some of the worst congestion of the entire I-94 interstate corridor in all of Waukesha County.
