Doyle directs WisDOT to work on Zoo Interchange.

• Author: Snyder, Paul

Byline: Paul Snyder

Gov. Doyle announced Friday that he had directed the Department of Transportation to begin construction on the Zoo Interchange in Milwaukee County by 2012, four years earlier than the project was originally slated to begin.

"This project will create thousands of jobs and boost the economy of the entire region," Doyle said. "Jump-starting the project is a vital step forward in our effort to grow Wisconsin's economy and make sure there are good paying jobs available for families."

Plans for the Zoo Interchange project now are to conduct the environmental and engineering analysis throughout 2007 and 2008, implement final design and real estate acquisitions from 2009 though 2011, and begin construction by 2012.

The state Department of Transpor-tation is working with local officials and businesses to analyze traffic issues, development trends and increasing traffic volumes near the Watertown Plank area.

Milwaukee will work with Wau-watosa, Milwaukee County, WisDOT and local businesses to complete a traffic impact analysis that will help plan for growth in the area. Analysis of development area borders near the Milwaukee County Grounds and a needs assessment and data collection are already under way.

Wisconsin Department of Transpor-tation Secretary Frank Busalacchi said in a statement Friday that it's time to upgrade the interchange in preparation for the area's future needs.

"This connection plays a key role in moving commuters, retail customers, health care patients, all types of freight and many other types of...