Chippewa County official opposes Highway T project due to farmland annexation concerns

During the Chippewa County Board's regular meeting on February 11, 2025, significant concerns were raised regarding ongoing highway projects, particularly the contentious Highway T project. A board member expressed strong opposition to the project, citing a long-standing resistance that has persisted for over four years. The member questioned the rationale behind using taxpayer funds to facilitate the annexation of prime farmland in Wheaton into the city of Eau Claire, suggesting that while the annexation may be inevitable, it should not be at the expense of Chippewa County taxpayers.

The discussion highlighted the escalating costs associated with the Highway T Bridge project, which has seen estimates rise from $14-15 million to $17 million. The board member noted that the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (DOT) indicated that the project might require additional funding, particularly if the existing bridge footings could be reused. This raises concerns about potential budget overruns and the need for further financial allocations.

The member also pointed out that traffic on Highway T is currently manageable, with daily counts between 6,000 to 7,000 vehicles, well below the threshold of 10,000 to 12,000 vehicles that would typically warrant expansion to four lanes. This observation calls into question the necessity of the project, especially given that local residents have not reported significant traffic issues.

Additionally, the member addressed a recent statement from the highway committee regarding funding commitments for future phases of the Highway T project. Despite claims that Chippewa County's financial responsibility had been removed from the resolution, the member noted that the county remains listed as a contributor to the project, raising concerns about potential expectations for further financial involvement.

In conclusion, the discussions during the meeting reflect a growing apprehension among board members regarding the financial implications of highway projects and the prioritization of taxpayer resources. As the board navigates these complex issues, the community will be closely watching how decisions are made and what impact they will have on local infrastructure and agricultural land use.