06/16/2026
Some road construction updates for those travelling up to the lake this summer.
First, there is construction that started today (6/15) between Shawano and Cecil on WI-22. Many come through Cecil and then turn north on County R to come north. WI-22 is fully closed and no detour route exists through Cecil. Plan on either going up WI-32 and cutting over on County W or WI-64 in Mountain, or over to Shawano and up to Keshena. This will be for most of the rest of the summer.
But wait....there's more!!
For many of you, Menominee County WI-55 from Keshena (or halfway through on County M) is a main path to Boulder Lake. Construction is coming later this summer and next spring.
We got some information from the DOT today. Highway 55 construction will be a two stage construction project. This also affects WI-47 from Keshena to the Langlade line, opposite the 55 construction.
First, starting August 17th of 2026, a full closure of WI 55 from Keshena to the Langlade line, with detours of WI-22 to WI-232 to WI-64 through October 16th (60 days). This will replace over 50 culverts, installing new guardrail, grading and patching in preparation for spring paving. There had been talk of a reconstruction of the Cty M/WI-55 intersection but no mention of it now in the material I have from the State.
Second, paving starting as soon as feasible in spring of 2027 until it's done on WI-55, then changing to WI-47. This will also install a high-friction surface treatment on WI-55..not sure if this is the whole length or just on the curves.
Bottom line, by mid-summer next year we'll have some pretty nice routes to the lake. But for now, expect delays. So, slow down, put down your phone, plan ahead, watch for workers and all that stuff. The lake will wait a few extra minutes for you!
