South 60th Street Reconstruction
2021 Engineering Excellence State Finalist
Entering Firm: EMCS Inc.
Client: City of Milwaukee
The South 60th Street corridor was in major need of changes. The road surface was so poor that signs were posted to warn motorists. TOutdated roadway design and overcrowded driveways resulted in a crash rate 16 percent higher than the state average. On top of this, there was no space for multi-modal accommodations.
EMCS knew that it would be a big task to address all these concerns. The team analyzed traffic patterns and determined that the number of lanes could be reduced in each direction without impacting traffic flow. Implementing this solution was only possible because the design team met with and listened to residents and local officials to ensure that their concerns were incorporated into the final design. The new design adds green space, makes multi-modal travel safer and reduces the crash risk.
The design team saved the city money. Project repairs also addressed stormwater runoff into the nearby Kinnickinnic River. Environmental permitting was obtained to better protect the river as it runs through a local park.
A “road diet” isn’t always the best option, but on South 60th Street it met every concern. The new road is safer, smoother and a beneficial part of the community.
