When an unexpected roadway emergency arose on northbound I-894 in Milwaukee, Team Walbec demonstrated what’s possible when talented people, shared expertise, and a commitment to safety come together.
And it all started with one employee looking out for the traveling public.
Walbec lowboy driver, Brad, was traveling on I-894 when he noticed a dangerous hole developing in the roadway. Recognizing the potential risk to motorists, he immediately called 911 to report it. That quick action helped set in motion a collaborative response that brought people and resources from across the Walbec family of companies together to help WisDOT address the issue as quickly and safely as possible.
Once on site, our team removed the pavement to investigate the source of the failure and determine the best path forward. From there, Walbec construction professionals tapped into expertise across our family of companies to develop a solution focused not only on reopening the roadway, but on safety, quality, and long-term durability for the traveling public.
The response extended well beyond the crew working at the repair site.
Our scheduling team quickly coordinated the equipment and resources needed to mobilize within hours. Our fabrication and repair shop provided timely solutions to support safe, OSHA-compliant operations throughout the repair. Heavy civil teams adjusted schedules and mobilized experienced crews with the specialized knowledge needed to perform the work. Construction experts across Walbec collaborated, problem-solved, and shared their expertise to help ensure every aspect of the repair was completed safely and with quality at the forefront.
It was an incredible example of what makes Walbec, Walbec.
When the need arose, there were no silos—just people asking, “How can we help?” Teams across our companies brought their individual strengths to the table, made decisions quickly, and worked toward the same goal: providing WisDOT and the traveling public with the best possible solution. We’re incredibly proud of everyone who played a role in this emergency response. And a special thank you goes to Brad, whose decision to speak up when he saw a potential danger started it all.
Looking out for the safety of the traveling public is at the heart of what we do. Every day, our teams help build and maintain the infrastructure that connects our neighbors to their workplaces, schools, families, friends, and communities.
Sometimes that work is planned months or years in advance. And sometimes, as this team demonstrated, it means answering the call and getting to work within hours.
Great work, Team Walbec.
