South Wasson Lane construction to begin

Posted 7/23/24

RIVER FALLS – The City of River Falls is excited to announce a significant infrastructure improvement for the community. This summer, the city will partner with the Wisconsin Department of …

This item is available in full to subscribers.

Please log in to continue

Log in

South Wasson Lane construction to begin

Posted

RIVER FALLS – The City of River Falls is excited to announce a significant infrastructure improvement for the community. This summer, the city will partner with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) to reconstruct South Wasson Lane, stretching from Cascade Avenue to Cemetery Road. This essential project, estimated at $4.3 million, has secured an impressive $3.5 million in grant funding, which makes up 80 percent of the estimated project cost. 

The federal Department of Transportation (DOT) is responsible for distributing these federal grant dollars and overseeing the management of such funding projects. This collaboration ensures that the City can undertake this crucial reconstruction with substantial financial support, paving the way for a safer and more efficient roadway. 

Major improvements include:   

  • A roundabout at the intersection of Cascade Avenue and South Wasson Lane to better support increased traffic flow. Roundabouts have been proven to increase safety, promote lower driving speeds and traffic calming, and improve the operational performance of the roadway. 
  • New high-capacity storm sewer to improve flood mitigation and runoff quality. The new storm sewer system will eliminate historic flooding concerns along Wasson Lane and adjacent properties. 
  • Stormwater quality best management practices, including a bio-filtration basin. This is an example of responsible redevelopment as effective stormwater management creates cleaner streams, rivers, and lakes while reducing flood damage potential and increasing the community’s quality of life.
  • New and improved walking trail along South Wasson Lane. The current trail will be re-done and run the full length of the street. This will increase connectivity and accessibility for pedestrians.
  • Lastly, it will be finished off with concrete curb and gutter, and new pavement. These improvements will transform the street from a more rural section of road to an urban standard, as is consistent with newer developments throughout the city. 

This construction project will be managed by WisDOT. Construction was expected to begin on July 22, 2024, and be completed by winter. More detailed project information will be shared as soon as possible, and updates may be found on the City of River Falls Facebook page or the project website.

South Wasson Lane will be closed except to local traffic. Although there may be temporary interruptions, all residents and property owners will have access to their driveways or parking lots. 

Submitted by City of River Falls

 

City of River Falls, South Wasson Lane, WisDOT, construction