Hawley Road Closure Begins Jan. 5: What Milwaukee Drivers Need to Know Through 2028
Hawley Road closure area and surrounding I-94 detours in Milwaukee (2026–2028).

Hawley Road Closure Begins Jan. 5: What Milwaukee Drivers Need to Know Through 2028

A key stretch of Hawley Road in Milwaukee is now closed and will remain that way for several years, as long-term construction tied to the Interstate 94 rebuild moves into a new phase.

📍 Which Part of Hawley Road Is Closed?

The closure affects Hawley Road between Park Hill Avenue and Hawley Court. The shutdown began on January 5, 2026 and is expected to continue until late 2028, according to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.

The work is part of the state’s $1.7 billion Interstate-94 East-West Project, one of the largest highway reconstruction efforts currently underway in Wisconsin.

🚧 Why the Closure Will Last Years

This phase of construction is known as the West Leg Segment, covering areas primarily west of General Mitchell Boulevard. Crews will be rebuilding roadways, reconfiguring ramps, and improving long-term traffic safety.

Officials note that the construction timeline is weather dependent, meaning schedules could change due to winter conditions or other delays.

🏪 Access for Residents and Businesses

Despite the closure, local access will remain available throughout construction. Residents, customers, deliveries, and emergency services will still be able to reach properties located along the closed section of Hawley Road.

Drivers should follow posted signage and expect temporary access routes in the area.

🛣️ Current I-94 Ramp and Lane Closures

Several long-term and permanent closures are currently in effect as part of the I-94 project:

  • Long-term closure of the General Mitchell Boulevard entrance ramp to I-94 westbound
  • Long-term closure of the I-94 eastbound exit ramp to General Mitchell Boulevard
  • Long-term closure of the 68th Street entrance ramp to I-94 eastbound
  • Long-term closure of the I-94 eastbound exit ramp to Hawley Road
  • Permanent closure of the Hawley Road entrance ramp to I-94 eastbound
  • Long-term lane reduction on I-94 westbound between the Stadium Interchange and 70th Street
  • Long-term closure of the WIS 175 southbound system ramp to I-94 westbound

📲 How to Stay Updated on Traffic Changes

Drivers can monitor detours, lane shifts, and construction alerts using official state resources:

With construction expected to continue through 2028, Milwaukee-area drivers are encouraged to plan alternate routes and allow extra travel time when navigating the city’s west side.

Source: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

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