City Plans Safety Enhancements and Bicycle Upgrades for State Highway 52 Project

In the heart of Wausau, city officials gathered to address pressing safety concerns on a busy stretch of State Highway 52, where the hum of daily traffic often masks the risks faced by drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists alike. The Infrastructure & Facilities Committee meeting on August 14, 2025, brought to light the urgent need for enhancements aimed at reducing rear-end collisions, particularly between Sixth and Thirteenth Streets, an area noted for its high crash rates.

Committee members discussed the importance of implementing safety measures to combat inattentive driving, which has been identified as the leading cause of accidents in this corridor. Plans are underway to upgrade pedestrian facilities, including the installation of ADA-compliant curb ramps and the painting of crosswalks, which currently lack visibility. These improvements aim to align with local safety initiatives and the Safe Routes to School program, ensuring that the needs of all road users are met.

Bicycle safety was also a focal point of the discussion. Although a four-foot accommodation exists for cyclists along Highway 52, it remains unmarked, leaving riders vulnerable. The Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) has endorsed the inclusion of designated bike lanes in the proposed upgrades, reinforcing the commitment to safer cycling routes. Both alternatives presented during the meeting retained these bike lanes, reflecting a consensus on the necessity of clear markings to enhance cyclist visibility and safety.

Additionally, the committee explored the potential for tree plantings along the highway, emphasizing the importance of maintaining green spaces in urban settings. Officials expressed a desire to pursue state grants to support these efforts, recognizing the dual benefits of beautification and environmental health.

Traffic data shared during the meeting revealed that approximately 7,700 vehicles traverse the stretch from Sixth to Thirteenth Streets daily, with a slightly lower count of 5,200 between Sixth and Eighteenth Streets. Despite public interest in a speed study, officials clarified that no changes to existing speed limits are proposed, maintaining the current limits of 25 miles per hour between Thirteenth and Eighteenth Streets.

As the meeting concluded, the committee's discussions underscored a proactive approach to enhancing safety and accessibility on Wausau's roadways. With plans for pedestrian upgrades, marked bike lanes, and potential tree plantings, the city is poised to create a safer environment for all who navigate this vital corridor. The commitment to these improvements reflects a broader vision for a community where safety and sustainability go hand in hand.