I-794 Lake Interchange Study

Exploring Possibilities Together

Let’s work together to deliver safe and efficient solutions that will enhance community connectivity, create land use opportunities and keep downtown and the region connected.

Latest News

Community members from across Milwaukee County and beyond engaged with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) on the I-794 Lake Interchange Study, with 842 comment form submissions for the November 2025 public meetings. Participants were asked to share their perspectives on the possible future for the corridor: Replace in Kind, Freeway Removal and Freeway Improvement. Respondents shared how each alternative would affect their travel patterns, access to downtown, access to the regional freeway system, and the ease of walking, biking and moving between neighborhoods. WisDOT is excited to share results of the multiple choice and rating scale questions.

Alternative Groups

All alternative groups will be further evaluated in the environmental impact statement to arrive at a selected alternative. Explore each alternative in detail.
NO BUILD
Bridges and ramps would not be replaced and would continue to deteriorate
REPLACE IN KIND
Reconstruct bridges similar to the existing alignment
Maintain all existing access points
Limited surface street and sidewalk improvements
FREEWAY REMOVAL
Replace segments of the existing freeway with improved at-grade street network
Improve surface street connectivity
Provide complete street accommodations
FREEWAY IMPROVEMENT
Reconstruct elevated freeway without capacity expansion
Improve design features to meet current standards and improve safety
Consolidate freeway access ramps
Improve surface street connectivity
Provide complete street accommodations

Study Overview

The Lake Interchange Study is evaluating alternatives for the I-794 freeway corridor. The study is focused on aging infrastructure along a section of I-794 known as the Lake Interchange. The study corridor extends beyond the Lake Interchange, generally from the Marquette Interchange to the Hoan Bridge, due to the interconnectedness of the freeway and its ramps in this area. The study is exploring ideas to improve the freeway corridor while also considering how the project could improve surface street connectivity and safety so all modes of transportation can thrive in this urban environment. The study is not considering changes to the main span of the Hoan Bridge or core design of the Marquette Interchange.

Study Phase Activities

Public Involvement
Alternative Analysis
Preliminary Design
Environmental
Documentation (NEPA)
Learn More