18 Wisconsin projects to benefit from $24 million federal transportation grant

Gov. Tony Evers and Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) officials announced Thursday smart traffic signals, electric buses, and multi-use trail extensions were among some projects to benefit from a $24 million grant from the federal government.

The funds come from the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) Improvement Program, which is implemented by the U.S. Department of Transportation, governor’s office officials said. The money will go towards 18 projects mostly located in Southeast Wisconsin over the span of one to three years.

The program helps local governments by providing up to 80% federal reimbursement for competing projects based on cost effectiveness and emission reduction potential, officials added. State projects include replacing buses in Waukesha, purchasing 16 battery electric buses for Milwaukee County and a third construction phase of the east-west shared-use Powerline Trail in Greenfield.

“From new electric buses to improved bike paths, these projects are investing in the quality of life of our state by reducing traffic congestion and improving air quality for local communities. By working closely with our federal and local partners on projects like this, we can keep our infrastructure and our state moving forward, and I look forward to doing even more in our state budget,” Gov. Tony Evers said in a statement.

According to WisDOT, CMAQ funds are only available to non-attainment and maintenance counties in southeastern and northeastern Wisconsin: Milwaukee, Racine, Kenosha, Waukesha, Washington, Ozaukee, Walworth, Sheboygan, Kewaunee, Manitowoc and Door.