Major Detours Active: 27th Street Bridge and Viaduct Closures Impact I-94 Commute

I-94 East-West Freeway Project: 27th Street Closures

Commuters in Milwaukee are facing significant adjustments this Monday, February 9, 2026, as several major long-term closures tied to the I-94 East-West Freeway Project are now in full effect. The most impactful change is the ongoing closure of the 27th Street bridge over I-94. This closure, which began earlier this month, also includes the permanent shutdown of the eastbound exit ramps to 26th Street and Saint Paul Avenue. Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) officials note that while traffic patterns are beginning to settle, peak-hour delays remain common as drivers continue to navigate alternate routes. The 27th Street Viaduct over the Menomonee River is also closed to traffic, creating a significant north-south bottleneck for those accustomed to using this artery to cross the valley.

Other Major Roadway Restrictions

Beyond the I-94 corridor, several other critical infrastructure projects are impacting local travel today:

• 16th Street Viaduct: This vital link over the Menomonee River remains closed to all vehicular traffic for essential bridge inspections and structural repairs. Motorists should continue to use the 6th Street Viaduct or the 35th Street Viaduct as primary alternatives.
• South Hawley Road: Work continues on the stretch between West Park Hill Avenue and West Adler Street. This section is closed through the fall of 2028, with detours clearly marked for those accessing the nearby freeway interchanges.
• West Greves Street: Roadwork near the 27th Street Viaduct has closed West Greves Street to its terminus. This closure is expected to remain in place through late 2026.

MCTS Transit Alerts and Service Changes

The Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) has implemented several detours to accommodate the current construction landscape. The PurpleLine is currently rerouted away from 27th Street between Clybourn Street and National Avenue. Passengers should check the MCTS website for updated boarding locations as trip times have been shifted to account for the longer detour route. Additionally, Route 24 continues its detour off the 16th Street Viaduct, utilizing 6th Street for its crossing. Riders are also reminded that winter service changes are in effect, which have reduced the frequency of several non-peak routes to address the 2026 budget gap. Expect slightly longer wait times on Routes 12, 15, and 35.

Commuter Tips and Weather Outlook

With temperatures hovering in the low 30s and overcast skies, road surfaces may remain damp throughout the day. While no major snow events are currently causing slick conditions, bridge decks—specifically the active viaducts—can develop frost. WisDOT is working with the City of Milwaukee to adjust traffic signal timing at key intersections like 35th and National to help mitigate the extra volume caused by the 27th Street detours. Commuters are advised to allow an extra 15 to 20 minutes for cross-town travel this afternoon.