(WFRV) – The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) is highlighting a year of achievements, including the completion of 380 improvement projects across the state, valued at over $1.3 billion. Since 2019, WisDOT has improved 8,648 miles of road and 2,080 bridges, connecting communities and supporting Wisconsin’s economy. Acuity Insurance distributes over $500k to Mental Health America Lakeshore in Wisconsin, along with five other charitable organizations “Transportation connects all of us and this year has been full of significant projects across the state of Wisconsin," WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman said. “Whether it's improvements to roads, rails, trails, airports or harbors, supporting the growth of our transportation network provides an essential link between our communities, helping people and products get where they need to go safely and efficiently." Significant Projects: Northwest: Upgraded I-94 in Osseo to improve traffic flow. Southwest: Two new bridges in Lone Rock enhanced connectivity on Highways 130 and 133. North Central: Reconstruction of US 8 near Rhinelander for Northwoods travelers. Northeast: Construction on I-41 between Appleton and Green Bay to boost safety and economic growth. Southeast: Improvements on I-43, 794, and 94 re-envision Milwaukee’s busy interstate system. Wisconsin communities have received $1.77 billion in grants since 2021 through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, enabling transformative projects like: Blatnik Bridge: A $1 billion grant to rebuild the bridge connecting Superior and Duluth. I-39/90/94 Bridges: Enhancing a critical freight and tourism corridor over the Wisconsin River. Rest Areas: Upgrades in Sparta and Manitowoc County supporting trucking needs. New and Expanded Programs: Driver Education Grants: $6 million distributed to improve safety and accessibility for teens. EV Infrastructure: $23 million allocated to 53 projects, including the first EV grants for Tribal communities. Agricultural Roads Improvement Program: $150 million to improve rural routes, with $50 million awarded in 2024. Bridge Inventory: A $12.5 million program to inspect smaller bridges and culverts for necessary repairs. Safety Initiatives: WisDOT hosted the inaugural Safer Together event, expanded work zone safety campaigns, and advanced pilot projects for Connected and Automated Vehicles (CAV). State Patrol marked its 85th anniversary with increased enforcement missions, innovative recruitment, and a new motorcycle safety awareness campaign. Innovations in Driver Services: New emergency contact options for licenses. Electric vehicle stickers for improved crash response. Updated motorists’ handbook and license plates supporting nonprofits. Wisconsin Gov. Evers finally appoints new DNR secretary after yearlong search Under Secretary Kristina Boardman, WisDOT continues its focus on strategic investments, safety enhancements, and workforce development to ensure a robust transportation network for 2025 and beyond. "Transportation connects all of us," Boardman said. "Our work strengthens Wisconsin’s infrastructure and helps communities thrive."