City Update: 27th Street Viaduct Closure and Critical Health Advisories

Public Infrastructure Alert: 27th Street Viaduct Closure

The City of Milwaukee Department of Public Works has issued a major traffic advisory following the closure of the 27th Street Viaduct. Effective Monday, February 2, 2026, the viaduct is closed to all through traffic for a significant maintenance and rehabilitation project. City officials, including Alderwoman Zamarripa and Alderwoman Moore, have cautioned residents that this closure will remain in place for a lengthy stretch. Commuters are encouraged to utilize 16th Street or 35th Street as primary north-south alternatives. Electronic message boards have been deployed to guide motorists through the detour routes.

Public Health Notice: Measles Awareness and Precautions

The Milwaukee Health Department is monitoring regional health developments following confirmed cases of measles in neighboring Waukesha and Dane Counties as of early February 2026. While no cases have been confirmed within Milwaukee city limits today, health officials are urging residents to verify their vaccination status. Measles is highly contagious and can remain active in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left an area. Symptoms typically include a high fever, cough, and a characteristic rash. The department advises anyone experiencing these symptoms to contact their healthcare provider by phone before arriving at a clinic to prevent further exposure.

Official Meeting Schedule: Tuesday, February 3, 2026

The following public meetings are scheduled to take place today at City Hall, located at 200 East Wells Street. Residents are invited to attend in person or view proceedings via the City Channel.

• Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee: Meeting at 9:00 AM in Room 301-B. The agenda includes discussions on various land-use amendments and neighborhood development initiatives, including a specific title amendment for communication file 251702.
• Board of Review: Meeting at 9:00 AM in Room 301-A. This session handles formal objections to property assessments and is available for both in-person and virtual participation.

County Governance: Upcoming Healthcare Contract Vote

Milwaukee County residents should be aware of a pending vote by the Board of Supervisors scheduled for Thursday, February 5, 2026. The board is set to decide on a five-year, $450 million health insurance contract for county employees. This follows recent debates in the Finance Committee regarding procurement protocols and the expiration of previous coverage agreements. The result of this vote will determine the network stability for thousands of local public servants and their families.

Ongoing Public Service Projects

Planning continues for the 2026 Capital Improvements Program. Key projects currently in the design or early implementation phase include the reconstruction of West National Avenue (WIS 59) between 1st and 39th Streets. This project aims to improve pedestrian safety and transit efficiency. Additionally, the city is moving forward with the historic restoration of the Frank Lloyd Wright Burnham Block, which is expected to bring renewed cultural programming to the west side throughout the coming year.