Jacobs, a global leader in infrastructure design and engineering, has delivered a transformative upgrade to Wisconsin’s STH 15 corridor, turning an outdated two-lane highway into a safer, more efficient, and community-focused four-lane divided corridor. Spanning 11 miles from US 45 to Lily of the Valley Drive, this vital route now better serves the growing populations of Greenville, Hortonville, New London, and surrounding communities in northeast Wisconsin.
Under the leadership of the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), Jacobs led preliminary design for the full corridor and final design for the east segment—bringing advanced engineering solutions to enhance traffic flow, safety, and quality of life.
Key Improvements
- Expansion to Four Lanes: Eases congestion and shortens travel times for both commuters and freight.
- New Hortonville Bypass: Diverts through-traffic, reducing congestion within town limits.
- Roundabout at STH 15/CTH JJ: Streamlines traffic, reduces crash potential, and separates bypass from local traffic.
- Multi-Use Trail: Runs along the south side of the corridor, offering safe and accessible connections for pedestrians and cyclists to schools, parks, jobs, and commercial hubs.
- Improved Railroad Crossing: Raised elevation enhances visibility, drainage, and safety.
- Truck Stopping Lanes: Allow freight vehicles to safely queue at rail crossings without obstructing mainline traffic.
“These upgrades not only address current transportation demands but lay the groundwork for future growth and sustainability,” said Gary Ferguson, Jacobs’ Roadway Design Lead and Milwaukee Office Lead. “This corridor now reflects the needs of both rural and urban users, balancing technical innovation with community impact.”
Recognized for Excellence
The project has been named a state finalist in the Wisconsin American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) Engineering Excellence Awards, applauded for its innovative design, safety improvements, and community benefit.
“Being named a finalist is a tremendous honor and a reflection of our team’s dedication,” added Ferguson. “This project showcases how infrastructure, when done right, becomes a path to opportunity—not just a means of travel.”
A Legacy of Impact
The STH 15 upgrade is part of Jacobs’ broader legacy in Wisconsin, where the firm recently marked 50 years of service. From early water quality initiatives to Milwaukee’s first Riverwalk design guidelines, Jacobs has contributed to more than $10 billion in award-winning projects across transportation, water, and environmental sectors statewide.
This latest project reaffirms Jacobs’ commitment to people-first infrastructure—designs that don’t just move vehicles, but move communities forward.
