STH 83 Resurfacing

The STH 83 rehabilitation project, extending from the southern Washington County line to STH 167, aimed to restore deteriorated pavement to maintain vehicular access for future traffic. This project was essential for the users of the two-lane rural roadway, which supports an average of 4,000 vehicles daily. It encompassed culvert repairs, improved drainage through ditching and guardrail replacement, all of which were critical for road safety and efficiency.

Benesch served as the prime consultant to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, providing preliminary and final roadway design, environmental investigations, public involvement, utility coordination, culvert inspection and design, and PS&E. Benesch also managed subconsultants handling survey, Right-of-Way platting and specialty environmental services.

The project team employed innovative techniques by utilizing a camera-mounted, remote-control rig to inspect culverts located in high fill sections. This approach revealed intact joints and prevented unnecessary replacements, resulting in cost savings of more than $20,000 and preserving local wildlife. Addressing pavement distress involved milling and replacing two inches of asphalt, avoiding the costs of full reconstruction.

The project team also addressed an unused, deteriorating cattle pass along the corridor. When nearby property owners expressed concerns about potential flooding if the structure were removed entirely, the project team conducted a detailed hydrologic and hydraulic analysis to determine an alternate solution. Instead of removing the pass, the project team partially demolished the existing structure, installed a new culvert and backfilled the void, providing a stable foundation for the roadway above and minimizing construction waste.

Construction was completed ahead of schedule and under budget, with final costs 6% lower than the original bid.