Madison’s busiest highway is getting busier. Between 2020 and 2050, the city’s population is projected to increase by 115,000, signaling that Beltline traffic may only increase.

That is, if changes aren’t made. Amid ongoing research, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation is seeking public feedback for the future of the highway.

The study

With a history going back to the 1940s, the highway has been continually revised for Madison’s growing population. The latest major improvement was the Flex Lane opening in 2022, honored with a regional award for its efficacy.

The study, which has no specific construction projects attached to it, explores potential long-term solutions to:

Address safety
Allow better accessibility
Improve operations and infrastructure

The Wisconsin DOT wants to improve all aspects of Madison's Beltline. | Photo via Wisconsin DOT | Wisconsin DOT

This process began in 2011, and will be conducted over three phases:

Collect and analyze data on Beltline use (completed in 2014)
Do a Planning and Environmental Linkages Study (currently underway) to understand environmental, community, and economic goals
Begin a federal National Environmental Policy Act Study which determines environmental impact statuses

Meeting details

As WisDOT reviews plans for the highway, share your input to help shape future efforts at upcoming feedback sessions:

Online: Tuesday, May 28, 5 p.m. | Via YouTube Live.
In-person: Wednesday, May 29, 5-6:30 p.m. | Boys and Girls Club of Dane County, 4619 Jenewein Rd., Fitchburg

The same material will be presented at both meetings with opportunities to ask questions and offer feedback. Join the project distribution list to receive future updates.