U.S. 41 in Wisconsin becomes Interstate 41

Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker said U.S. 41 has been added to the U.S. Interstate System, as I-41, his office said on Thursday. 

The newly minted Interstate is located in the eastern part of the state, and Walker said its designation was due to the several years' worth of effort by officials at the local, state and federal levels.

"The official designation of I-41 is tremendous news that will support the safe, efficient movement of people and commerce for many years to come,” Wisconsin Department of Transportation Secretary Mark Gottlieb said. “Along with Governor Walker’s leadership, I want to thank former Congressman Tom Petri, our current congressional delegation, state legislators, local government officials and community leaders who helped make I-41 a reality.”

The process began a decade ago, and with the official approval from the Federal Highway Administration, approximately 3,000 signs will be replaced this summer.

With an Interstate designation comes a new identity as a significant economic corridor that will likely facilitate growth in the area, with safety and mobility standards ensured, Walker's office said.

I-41 runs with U.S. 41 throughout the state. In 2005, U.S. 41 between Milwaukee and Green Bay

"Our Interstate system is a critical part of our infrastructure, which fuels commerce, helps grow the economy and creates job,” Walker said