Wisconsin DOT Plans Cedar Falls Bridge Replacement by 2031

A new road maintenance technique that could save Dunn County taxpayers 25% is gaining attention following the recent Dunn County Highway Committee meeting. The innovative method involves milling two inches off the road surface and immediately relaying it back without the need for off-site hauling, significantly cutting costs and time.

During the meeting, committee members discussed the operation, which utilizes ten semi-trucks equipped with heaters to warm the asphalt. Each truck contributes to the milling process, creating a windrow of material that is then reused on-site. This approach not only reduces transportation expenses but also promises an impressive lifespan of 8 to 10 years for the repaired roads, comparable to traditional mill and overlay methods.

While the operation moves at a slow pace of about three miles per hour, the efficiency of the remote-controlled trucks, which maintain precise distances from one another, was highlighted as a key feature. The committee noted that while the state is considering broader applications of this method, its use on county roads remains limited for now.

In addition to the road maintenance discussion, the committee also addressed the Cedar Falls Bridal update. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation has included the Cedar Falls bridge on its list for potential replacement or rehabilitation in the 2026-2031 Statewide Development Program. An application will be prepared for this project, although committee members cautioned that inclusion on the list does not guarantee funding or immediate action.

The meeting underscored the county's commitment to exploring cost-effective solutions for infrastructure maintenance while planning for future projects that enhance road safety and longevity.