Odana Rd and Whitney Way Intersection Safety Improvements

Project Overview

This project will upgrade the intersection to improve safety and accessibility for all users. Work includes replacing and modernizing the traffic signal system with high-visibility signal heads over each lane, installing audible pedestrian signals and countdown timers, and adding high-visibility crosswalk markings. Pedestrian curb ramps at the intersection will be improved to meet current accessibility standards. The project also includes widening the median on the north leg to remove an unused receiving lane, as well as widening the median islands on the east and west legs. In addition, a northbound buffered bike lane will be added on Whitney Way between Odana Road and Tokay Boulevard.

During construction, all turning movements will be maintained. Work will be staged to reduce impacts, with additional lanes reopened during morning and afternoon peak travel times when possible. Even with these measures, delays are expected, and drivers are encouraged to use alternate routes.

Project Exhibit

Project Plan Sheet

Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP)

This project is funded in part through the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP), a federally funded, data-driven initiative focused on reducing traffic fatalities and serious injuries on all public roads. HSIP provides funding to support infrastructure-based safety improvements, such as intersection upgrades and signal enhancements. Projects are selected based on crash data and proven safety countermeasures to ensure investments are targeted where they will have the greatest impact.

Federal HSIP funds are distributed to states, which administer the program and select projects. For this project, federal and state funding covers approximately 90% of total costs, with the City funding the remaining 10%.

Project Limits

Work will be limited to the intersection of Odana Rd and Whitney Way, except for marking a new northbound bike lane that will extend north to Tokay Boulevard.

Project Schedule

The City applied with WisDOT and received HSIP approval in 2022.  Design took place in 2025 - 2026.  Contractor bidding is in Fall 2026.  Construction will occur in Summer 2027.

Public Involvement

Public input request letters were mailed in March 2025 to nearby properties. 

Public Information Meetings

There are no public information meetings scheduled at this time. 

City Process, Meetings

Common Council 10/11/22

Board of Public Works 9/21/22

Transportation Commission: 9/14/22

Finance Committee: 9/12/22