APPLETON — Drivers in the Fox Valley will have six major interchange projects to contend with in 2026, according to the Wisconsin DOT.
In Kaukauna, the Buchanan Street overpass over I-41 will be closed from early 2026 through the fall to create a wider, safer roadway for motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians. The new structure relocates the bridge piers to allow the expansion of I-41 to accommodate rising traffic volumes.
In Appleton, the DOT plans to build a diverging diamond interchange at Highway 47/Richmond Street. The new interchange will accommodate higher traffic volumes, increase safety and include additional bike and pedestrian accommodations. The overpass will close from early 2026 until fall.
The northbound 441 interchange to north I-41 will be closed for one month in the spring of 2026 for reconstruction.
The northbound on-ramp of the Wisconsin 96 interchange at I-41 will be reconstructed and auxiliary lanes will be completed between the 96 and Highway 15 interchanges.
Gillett Street under I‑41 reconstruction on Appleton’s north side includes improvements to the roadway and sidewalks to enhance traffic flow and safety. Additionally, WisDOT is making adjustments to the adjacent stream channel to improve drainage.
The French Road overpass near the 441 interchange will be rebuilt as a wider, safer roadway for motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. As part of the reconstruction, the French Rd. overpass will be reconfigured under the southbound I‑41 to southbound WIS 441 ramp. The overpass will be closed from early 2026 until the fall.
Near Wrightstown, the existing County U interchange will be rebuilt as a diamond interchange with roundabouts. Reconstruction includes realigning East Frontage Road and adding a new roundabout south of the County U interchange.
