Severe Delays Expected: 27th Street Bridge Closure and I-94 Ramp Shutdowns

Morning Weather Alert: Slick Roads and Freezing Drizzle

Commuters heading out early this Tuesday morning, February 3, 2026, should exercise extreme caution. Local reports indicate that patchy freezing drizzle moved through southeastern Wisconsin overnight. While major highways are being treated, secondary roads and overpasses may have lingering slick spots. Visibility and traction remain the primary concerns for the morning drive until temperatures rise later today. Wisconsin DOT’s 511 system currently shows normal flow on most interstates, but the environmental conditions demand slower speeds and increased following distances.

The Big Switch: 27th Street Bridge and I-94 Exit Closures

The most significant disruption to the Milwaukee commute began just yesterday and remains a major hurdle this morning. As part of the ongoing $1.75 billion I-94 East-West reconstruction project, the 27th Street Bridge (Viaduct) over I-94 and the Menomonee River is now fully closed to traffic. This critical north-south artery is scheduled to remain closed until late 2026 as crews perform a complete replacement of the bridge deck, piers, and girders.

In addition to the bridge closure, the I-94 eastbound exit to 26th Street and St. Paul Avenue is also shut down. This long-term closure will force thousands of daily commuters to find alternate routes into the Menomonee Valley and the Near West Side.

Recommended Detours and Navigating the Valley

With 27th Street out of commission, traffic is already beginning to heavy up on nearby alternatives. Officials recommend the following detours to minimize delays:

• Primary North-South Detour: Use 35th Street between West Wisconsin Avenue and West Greenfield Avenue. Expect significant volume increases on 35th Street during peak hours.
• Freeway Access: Drivers who typically use the 26th Street exit should instead utilize the 13th Street (Exit 310A) or 35th Street exits.
• Potawatomi and Canal Street Access: Those traveling from the west should exit at 13th Street, turn south onto Emmber Lane, and then head west on Canal Street. From the east, continue using the 25th Street/Clybourn exit (310B).

Public Transit and Ongoing Roadworks

The Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) has implemented a major detour for the PurpleLine due to the bridge work. The line is currently rerouted off 27th Street between Clybourn Street and National Avenue. Commuters should check their schedules as trip times have been shifted to accommodate the extra travel time required by the detour.

Finally, remember that the 16th Street Bridge (James E. Groppi Unity Bridge) remains closed through April 2026 for repairs, and South Hawley Road is closed from Park Hill Avenue to Adler Street until 2028. Plan for extra travel time if your route takes you through the Stadium Interchange or the Menomonee Valley.