Slippery Conditions and Construction Closures: Milwaukee Sunday Commute Alert

Hazardous Conditions on Major Arteries

Commuters in Milwaukee this Sunday, January 25, 2026, face challenging road conditions as a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect. While accumulation in the city proper is expected to be under half an inch, lake-effect snow is significantly impacting southeastern Milwaukee County, where up to five inches of snow could fall. Particular caution is advised on I-794 and I-94 south of the I-43 interchange, as these stretches have been reported as increasingly slippery. High winds gusting up to 30 mph are creating low visibility and drifting snow across travel lanes, making high-speed travel dangerous.

I-94 East-West Construction and Ramp Closures

Major infrastructure work continues to reshape the I-94 corridor. Motorists should be aware that the 28th Street entrance ramp to I-94 westbound is now closed for a scheduled two-month period to facilitate utility work ahead of the "Early East Leg" reconstruction phase. This project, which focuses on the area between 25th and 30th Streets, will see increased activity in the coming weeks. Drivers who typically use the 28th Street access are encouraged to detour via the 35th Street or 13th Street ramps. Additionally, while I-94 East near 13th Street has recently reopened following earlier incidents, long-term lane shifts between 70th and 16th Streets remain in place, requiring steady speeds and extra merging caution.

MCTS Transit Alerts and Service Changes

The Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) is operating under its Winter Service Plan, which was implemented earlier this month. Passengers should account for several active detours due to both construction and emergency repairs:

• Route 60: A major long-term detour is in effect between Main Street and Bluemound Road due to the I-94 East-West project.
• GreenLine: Buses are currently detouring off 1st Street between Greenfield and Lapham due to emergency construction.
• BlueLine: A detour remains in place off 64th Street from Custer to Villard.

Riders are also reminded that the new 2026 fare structure is now in effect, with single rides set at $2.75. Due to extreme cold, MCTS mechanical delays are possible; commuters should use real-time tracking apps to minimize time spent at outdoor stops.

Extreme Cold and Safety Reminders

With wind chills plummeting as low as -40°F today, the City of Milwaukee has extended hours for winter warming locations, including Guest House of Milwaukee and St. Ben’s Parish. For those driving, officials recommend keeping a winter survival kit in the vehicle and ensuring all windows are completely cleared of frost and snow before merging onto the freeway. If you encounter black ice, particularly on bridge decks like the Hoan Bridge, avoid sudden braking and steer into the skid.