The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) announced Friday that traffic on the westbound lanes of U.S. Highway 12 in Madison has resumed following a crash that blocked the roadway shortly after 8:30 p.m. near Todd Drive. The incident forced the closure of the median and halted westbound travel for several hours.
Details of the crash
According to WisDOT, the crash occurred just after 8:30 p.m. on Friday evening. While the department has not released specifics about the vehicles involved, the impact was sufficient to close the median and require emergency responders to secure the scene. Madison Police Department officers are the primary agency handling the investigation and have asked motorists to remain cautious in the area.
Impact on commuters
During the closure, drivers were diverted to alternate routes, including nearby county roads and the interstate system, leading to increased congestion on surrounding streets. Local commuters reported longer travel times and expressed relief when the westbound lanes were cleared.
WisDOT response and future safety measures
WisDOT spokesperson John Miller said the agency worked quickly to assess damage, coordinate with law‑enforcement, and restore traffic flow. “Our priority is public safety,” Miller stated. “We will continue to monitor the median and surrounding infrastructure to ensure it remains safe for motorists.” The department also reminded drivers to obey posted signage and to report any hazardous conditions they encounter on state highways.
What residents should know
While the westbound lanes are now open, the median remains closed pending a thorough inspection. Drivers are encouraged to stay alert for any temporary signage or flagger directions. The Madison Police Department will remain on site for the remainder of the night to complete its investigation and to ensure the area is clear before normal operations resume fully.
Community perspective
Local residents appreciate the swift action taken by WisDOT and the police department. “It was frustrating to be stuck on the highway for so long,” said Emily Hart, a Madison commuter. “I’m glad the lanes are open again, and I hope the median gets fixed soon so we don’t have to deal with this again.”
For real‑time traffic updates, motorists can follow the WisDOT Twitter feed or use the department’s mobile app, which provides alerts on road conditions, closures, and construction projects throughout the state.
Looking ahead
The incident underscores the importance of maintaining safe travel corridors on major highways that serve both local and regional traffic. WisDOT has indicated that it will review the circumstances surrounding the crash to determine if additional safety measures, such as improved lighting or signage near Todd Drive, are warranted.
Travelers planning to use US 12 westbound should remain vigilant and allow extra time for travel until the median is fully reopened. The Madison Police Department will release any further findings from its investigation as they become available.
Original reporting: NBC15 WMTV (Gray) – local — read the source article.
