STH 33 Baraboo
2025 Engineering Excellence State Finalist
Entering Firm: Oneida Engineering Solutions
Client: Wisconsin Department of Transportation
STH 33 in Baraboo was afflicted with deteriorating pavement, substandard utilities, and pedestrian facilities. Growing traffic impacted safety and the constrained urban environment put strict constraints on any redesign.
Oneida Engineering Solutions had to be nimble during the process, addressing sensitive concerns archaeological and historic areas and navigating COVID-related coordination challenges. Despite these obstacles, the design team utilized performance-based practical design to deliver a solution that improved safety, operations, and user experience. This methodology fits WisDOT’s playbook and meets the community’s needs.
The team came up with a redesign that met those needs. They transformed the roadway from a four-lane highway to a two-lane highway with a two-way left turn lane improving traffic flow and safety. The team worked closely with stakeholders and the public to explain the change and how the improvements would not impact traffic flow or safety, even though the number of lanes was reduced.
The $18.8 million reconstruction project successfully delivered a safer, more efficient roadway for users. This key urban route serves residents, businesses, and planned future developments, connecting to the recently relocated USH 12. This connection allows Baraboo and the surrounding area to grow along with its new infrastructure.