West Jackson Street Reconstruction
2024 Engineering Excellence State Finalist
Entering Firm: Strand Associates Inc.
Client: City of Wisconsin Rapids
The aging infrastructure of West Jackson Street, a vital downtown artery in Wisconsin Rapids, inhibited growth and did not fit with the city’s long-term plans. Pavement deterioration, the lack of bicycle accommodations, and the need for a holistic approach for the city’s downtown all demanded an innovative solution.
Strand Associates adopted a performance-based practical design, reducing travel lanes to encourage slower speeds and introducing green space. Eliminating this pavement creates a welcoming gateway to the downtown and better highlights the city’s long-term vision. The revamped corridor now prioritizes pedestrian and cyclist safety, featuring a shared-use path and improved pedestrian accommodations.
Intersection safety and operations were enhanced by implementing strategic controls based on traffic volumes, including an all-way stop and transforming a tee-intersection into a single-lane roundabout. With minimal right-of-way impacts, achieved through temporary grading easements, the project seamlessly integrated into the existing landscape.
This transformative initiative adhered to the city's long-range plans and proved to be a resounding success. Completed on schedule and substantially under budget, the project garnered unparalleled positive feedback from the public, marking it as a standout achievement in the City's infrastructure enhancement endeavors.