The Wisconsin Department of Transportation is taking big steps to improve the roads that farmers rely on every day. Launched as part of the 2023 budget, the Agricultural Road Improvement Program (ARIP), is set to upgrade around 490 miles of agricultural roadways. Joel Nilsestuen, Assistant Deputy Secretary for the Wisconsin Department of Transportation shares more about the program and just how much demand is out there for these types of funds.

The first round of applications saw a robust response, with $50 million awarded to support 37 projects across 28 counties in Wisconsin. These projects are expected to facilitate the transport of approximately 5.3 million tons of agricultural products valued at around $1.6 billion annually. Nilsestuen noted, “We are covering all aspects of the agricultural industry, from dairy and livestock to grains, feed, and even cranberry production."

Currently, the second round of applications has closed, with $100 million available for projects. "We received 220 applications totaling about $370.5 million worth of work, impacting around 490 miles of agricultural roadways.