May 24, 2021
For more information, contact:
Steven Theisen, WisDOT Communications Manager
(608) 884-1230, [email protected]
Public input sought for WIS 19 safety improvement project, Sun Prairie, Dane County
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT)is seeking public input on proposed improvements along WIS 19 at the US 151 interchange in Sun Prairie. The project proposes to improve safety by reducing the frequency and severity of intersection crashes, and improving driver awareness of the intersection and traffic signals. Construction is currently scheduled for 2023.
The ramp terminal intersections are experiencing a high volume of high-speed angle crashes where one vehicle violates a red light signal, or fails to yield the right of way. Rear-end crashes are also common, but are generally less severe than angle crashes. The following safety improvements are being proposed along WIS 19 between Lois Drive and Davison Drive:
- Replace the existing traffic signal poles located along the side of the roadway with signal heads above each lane. Overhead signals offer drivers a better visual and understanding of the lanes to aid in their safe navigation through the intersection. A protected left turn movement will be included in the signal phasing that restricts opposing traffic from entering the intersection while left turns are being made.
- Lengthen the left turn lanes along WIS 19 to provide more storage for vehicles waiting to turn left. Longer turn lanes will allow vehicles waiting to turn left to be removed from the path of through traffic.
- The southbound US 151 ramp terminal will be evaluated to determine if improvements are needed to better accommodate large truck turning movements onto WIS 19.
A virtual slide presentation (PDF format) and handout detailing the project are available to view on the project website at: wisconsindot.gov/Pages/projects/by-region/sw/wis19-us151/default.aspx.
All persons interested in the project are encouraged to view the website and provide input by contacting project staff via email, postal mail, or phone. Your comments will assist us in developing a project that will serve the needs of the traveling public, as well as the needs of the community. Your input is welcome and appreciated throughout the design process. Comments received prior to July 10, 2021 will be included in the environmental document. Questions and comments can also be directed to WisDOT Project Manager David Schmidt at [email protected], (608) 246-3867, or mailed to the WisDOT Southwest Region, 2101 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704.
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