Like most states in the country, Wisconsin is on a collision course between rapidly rising traffic rates and the ability of existing highways to handle it all. And we're not doing a good job in this state of putting more people in those vehicles. The average is about 1.2 people per car. And by 2020, an estimated 62 percent will be congested, Bosscher says. Urban areas such as Madison and Milwaukee face major traffic issues ahead.
Traffic volume is our single biggest problem.
The two overriding goals of the partnership are to reduce driver delays in key areas around the state, and gradually develop highway products that will last longer without additional costs. Investigating ways to reduce road settlement at the base of bridges, which often causes harsh bumps. Studying accident rates caused by wet pavement and finding new surface designs that can improve traction. Developing a Beneficial Reuse Program, which will turn industrial waste such as foundry sand, coal slag and fly ash into low-cost material for road construction. We hope to leave a legacy of improved materials and less required maintenance on roads.