Town of Lima, Weekly: I-43 Resurfacing Underway Near Wilson/Lima Road
Major highway construction is now underway just east of Town of Lima, and it is expected to shape commutes for much of 2026.
I-43 Resurfacing Begins Near Wilson/Lima Road
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation has started a $21 million rehabilitation project on roughly 10 miles of Interstate 43, stretching from Wilson/Lima Road in the Town of Wilson to WIS 42 in the Town of Sheboygan.
Work officially began March 2 and is expected to continue into late October, with some activity potentially extending into early November depending on weather.
For Town of Lima residents who use I-43 via Wilson/Lima Road or connect through nearby interchanges, the biggest impacts include:
- Reduced lanes in both directions in portions of the work zone
- Numerous on- and off-ramps closed for various periods
- Long-term lane closures beginning mid-March and lasting into summer
What’s Being Done
The project includes removing deteriorated pavement and overlaying new asphalt, maintenance work on nine bridges, replacing aging sign structures, guardrail updates, slope grading, and fresh pavement markings.
According to WisDOT, the improvements are designed to extend the life of the interstate and improve safety with updated roadside protections and smoother pavement.
Summer Disruptions Ahead
While early work involved tree clearing and right-of-way preparation, more significant traffic impacts are ramping up this month.
The most disruptive phase is expected in July and August at the I-43 and Highway 23 interchange, where collector and distributor ramps will undergo bridge work for approximately 35 days. Additional intermittent closures are planned through the fall.
Residents who commute toward Sheboygan, Plymouth, or Manitowoc should plan extra travel time, especially during peak morning and afternoon hours. WisDOT encourages drivers to monitor 511 Wisconsin for updated closure schedules and detour information.
What Lima Residents Should Do
If you rely on I-43 for work, school, or farm-related travel, now is the time to:
- Check 511wi.gov before longer trips
- Allow additional commute time
- Watch for changing ramp access, particularly near Wilson/Lima Road
The project represents one of the most significant roadway efforts in the immediate area this year and will continue affecting local traffic patterns through the fall construction season.
Sources
https://projects.511wi.gov/i43sheb/wp-content/uploads/sites/1486/43news022326.pdf
