Interstate 94 north-south corridor study, FAQs - Real estate - Wisconsin Department of Transportation

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I-94 North-South corridor study - frequently asked questions (FAQs), Real estate

Q: Which properties will be impacted under the potential I-94 reconstruction?

Kenosha/Racine County interchange properties - In 1998, WisDOT completed preliminary plans for improvements to all of the I-94 interchanges from WIS 241/27th Street at the north end of Racine County south to County C in Kenosha County. These plans are available from WisDOT on request and identify properties that could be impacted when the interchanges are reconstructed. The plans are based on a 1996 Environmental Assessment of the interchanges. Deed restrictions on impacted properties are on file with the Kenosha and Racine County Registers of Deeds.

WisDOT is proceeding on final design for interchange projects at County C (Kenosha), WIS 50, WIS 158, County KR (county line), WIS 20 and County K (Racine). WisDOT could begin acquiring real estate for these projects in the next three years. Construction on the WIS 50 interchange is scheduled to begin in 2008 or 2009, with the other projects starting in 2009 or 2010. WisDOT will soon begin final design for the remaining interchanges in Kenosha and Racine counties, but will likely not begin construction on these until at least 2011.

Milwaukee County and mainline Kenosha/Racine County - At this point, WisDOT has not determined what, if any, real estate would be needed for improvements to the mainline freeway corridor in Kenosha and Racine counties or anywhere in Milwaukee County. A previous recommendation by the Southeast Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission (SEWRPC) represents just one concept for the corridor. Final decisions will likely not occur until 2008 after extensive public and community involvement. WisDOT could begin real estate acquisition in these areas as early as 2009, with construction occurring from 2011 through 2016.

Q: What is the source and meaning of the "44 residences" in the Mitchell Interchange that could be impacted by a freeway project?

The SEWRPC freeway study provided a general concept for how the I-94 North-South corridor and the Mitchell Interchange could be redesigned and reconstructed. The study did estimate the number of properties that could be needed to support these design concepts. While SEWRPC grouped these properties into general locations, the study did not identify specific properties or homes that would need to be acquired.

WisDOT is conducting engineering and environmental studies to determine what improvements should be made to the I-94 North-South corridor and what these improvements could cost, in terms of money, property and impacts to the environment.

Q: If I sell my property, am I required to notify potential buyers of possible impacts due to freeway construction?

Kenosha/Racine County interchange properties - There are plans on file with the Kenosha and Racine County Registers of Deeds for any impacted properties identified in the Kenosha/Racine interchange improvements. Property owners should check with the Register of Deeds and/or an attorney regarding actions on the sale or improvements to these properties.

Milwaukee County and mainline Kenosha/Racine County - Property owners looking to sell may consult a real estate agent or an attorney for a specific legal opinion based on individual circumstances regarding disclosure of the freeway study. WisDOT will be undertaking an extensive public involvement effort for this study, so many prospective buyers may already know about the situation regardless of the owners' disclosure.

Q: How would WisDOT acquire and reimburse me for my property, if that option were necessary?

If it is determined that the state needs to purchase a property, WisDOT is obligated by Wis. Stat. 32 to pay just compensation, equating to fair market value for the property without considering the positive or negative impacts of the freeway project. WisDOT's offer will be based on an independent appraisal that assumes there would be no improvement project.

A property owner may also ask WisDOT to pay for and conduct a second appraisal if not satisfied with the initial offer. WisDOT is also required to assist in finding suitable replacement property and pay for reasonable cost of moving expenses for residents and businesses if WisDOT determines that a full relocation is needed.

Q: What are my legal rights for a relocation process?

The Wisconsin Department of Commerce provides a variety of information for property owners regarding relocation law information, including statutory references, brochures and sample forms.

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