For the Rapids City Times

RHINELANDER – The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) North Central Region is conducting a public involvement meeting to discuss the rehabilitation of State Hwy 173 from County G (N) to State Hwy 73 through the city of Nekoosa in Wood County.

The meeting is scheduled for May 15, 5-6:30 p.m., at the Nekoosa Community Center, 416 Crestview Ln, Nekoosa. A brief presentation is scheduled to begin at 5:15 pm. The remainder of the meeting will follow an open house format.

The objective of this meeting is to familiarize the public with the purpose and need for the project and to obtain input on the proposed improvements. Some of the needs identified along this section of highway, include: deteriorating pavement, ADA standards for curb ramps, and a deteriorating railroad crossing.

The proposed improvements include curb repairs, milling the existing surface and overlaying with new asphalt, installing new curb ramps, replacement of the existing railroad crossing, and upgrading of the existing railroad signals.

The city of Nekoosa is also proposing to replace the existing angle parking at the William Kautzer Recreational parking with on-street parallel parking on both sides of State Highway 173 (Market Street), between Section Street and Park Street. A majority of the project work will be completed under flagging operations; however, a detour will be required during the time the railroad crossing is replaced.

Minor right-of-way acquisition is required, including temporary easements for construction purposes from the William Kautzer Recreational Plaza. The improvement project is currently scheduled to occur in 2022.

Adjacent property owners are encouraged to attend the meeting. The meeting facility is wheelchair accessible. Deaf or hard of hearing persons needing assistance should contact the Wisconsin Telecommunications Relay system by dialing 711. To allow time to arrange for special accommodations needed to participate, please contact Jason Schaeffer at 715-421-7309, by May 11.