AGP Executive Report

Memorial Day travel safety: WisDOT and the DNR are pushing drivers, boaters, and ATV/UTV riders to slow down and buckle up as the holiday crowds hit—plus WisDOT is warning people not to remove “road closed” barriers after a truck drove into wet concrete on I-41/894/US 45 and National Ave. Passenger rail momentum: Amtrak’s latest plan could add stops in Madison, Watertown, and Pewaukee, aiming for service by 2029–2030. Local road-life stories: Door County residents on Bay Shore Drive are organizing to curb speeding, and a Milwaukee interchange incident is a fresh reminder that construction zones aren’t a suggestion. Outdoors & recreation: The DNR is urging patience at state parks and trails, and safety reminders for ATV/UTV and boating are front and center. Travel inspiration: Wisconsin’s 2026 Rustic Roads Guide is out, highlighting 126 rustic routes and five scenic byways.

Holiday Safety Push: Wisconsin law enforcement is stepping up “Click It or Ticket” enforcement through the end of May, right as Memorial Day travel kicks into high gear—reminding drivers that buckling up is one of the most effective ways to prevent serious injury or death. Road-Trip Reality Check: AAA and local reports say many travelers are still hitting the road, but higher gas prices are nudging some Wisconsinites toward shorter, closer-to-home plans. On-Water Caution: WisDOT and the DNR are pairing up for summer safety messaging—expect heavy traffic with boat trailers, double-check life vests, and watch for “aquatic hitchhikers” when you’re done on the water. Local Spotlight: Milwaukee is also launching its 2026 Operation Summer Guardian, targeting neighborhoods with the most gunfire with a mix of added patrols and community engagement.

Memorial Day Travel Push: WisDOT is urging drivers to plan ahead and stay patient as AAA expects about 744,000 Wisconsinites to hit the road this weekend, with peak congestion Thursday noon–9 p.m., Friday 11 a.m.–8 p.m., and Monday noon–5 p.m.; most road work pauses to open lanes, but key closures and single-lane restrictions remain—check 511 Wisconsin (511wi.gov) before you go. Road Safety + Water Safety: WisDOT and the DNR are teaming up with a simple message—Drive safe, Tow safe, Boat safe—especially for travelers towing boats and heading to launches across the state. Local Weekend Energy: La Crosse hosts the NCAA Division III National Track & Field Championships for the first time since 2018, with tourism officials projecting a $1.5M–$2M economic boost. Family-Friendly Updates: Kewaskum approved listing old playground equipment for auction as Creekside Camp’s all-abilities playground prepares to break ground in early June. Food Stop Spotlight: Wisconsin’s Kwik Trip keeps winning national “best gas station food” buzz, topping USA Today 10Best again.

Memorial Day travel crunch: WisDOT and the Wisconsin State Patrol are urging drivers to plan ahead and slow down as an estimated 744,000 people hit the roads this weekend, with peak hours Thursday noon–9 p.m., Friday 11 a.m.–8 p.m., and Monday noon–5 p.m., plus construction impacts still rolling across the state. Milwaukee traffic hit: Starting Tuesday, May 26, a portion of the 35th Street and National Avenue intersection will close to northbound drivers (the 35th Street Viaduct stays open), adding to already-heavy south-to-north detours. Tick season warning: Health officials say tick bites are surging nationally, and Wisconsin travelers should be extra vigilant outdoors to prevent Lyme and other tick-borne illnesses. New flight boost: Appleton International Airport is launching its first-ever nonstop seasonal flight to the Los Angeles area via Allegiant, with other airlines adding capacity and routes. Local growth in care: Mayo Clinic Health System held a ribbon cutting for an Osseo hospital expansion adding nine rooms and telehealth upgrades.

Memorial Day travel push: AAA expects nearly 45 million Americans on the move, with Wisconsin projecting about 834,000 road trips (most by car) even as higher fuel costs slow growth—WisDOT also urges drivers to plan ahead for work zones and peak congestion Thursday/Friday. Road safety crackdown: The State Patrol’s Click It or Ticket seat belt enforcement runs May 18–31, reminding travelers that unbelted crashes last year led to 145 deaths. Wisconsin travel perks: American Airlines adds a new Milwaukee-to-Boston nonstop timed for the Packers’ Nov. 8 game, and Wisconsin Rapids secured a $2.7M federal grant for terminal renovations at Alexander Field. Outdoors & bites: Ticks are surging early this year, driving more ER visits—so expect extra reminders to protect yourself as summer ramps up. Local happenings: A hiring event is set in Orofino, and Leu Gardens hosts a honey tasting class this weekend.

Airport Upgrades: Sen. Tammy Baldwin announced more than $12.5 million for Wisconsin airports, including $8 million for Milwaukee’s General Mitchell International Airport to finish a new international terminal and boost safety and capacity. Door County Travel Buzz: Two Door County motels swept USA TODAY 10BEST’s roadside motel rankings, and the Door County Coastal Byway landed in the top 10 for scenic drives—another strong sign summer visitors are coming. Local Construction & Fun: The Bender Park boat launch in Oak Creek reopened with a ribbon-cutting, even as nearby work continues. Safety Watch: A school bus crashed into an apartment building in Milwaukee, and Waukesha police are investigating a deadly two-vehicle crash. Community & Culture: Gov. Evers appointed 24 members to a new Wild Rice Stewardship Council, and Watertown is set to permanently dedicate a Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall replica. On the Ground: Mount Pleasant police are searching for missing endangered 71-year-old Paul Alexander, last seen in Kansas.

Highway Update: Gov. Tony Evers approved a $7M resurfacing project on US 45 in Oneida County, with work starting May 26 and lane-by-lane traffic kept moving via flagging. Air Travel Boost: U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin announced $12.5M for Wisconsin airports, including $8M for Milwaukee’s E Concourse redevelopment into a new international terminal. Memorial Day Watch: AAA says fewer Wisconsin residents are expected to travel this Memorial Day—about 834,000—citing higher gas prices and more cost-conscious trip planning. Health Costs: With ACA enhanced subsidies expiring, a new analysis finds many people are switching to cheaper plans but facing higher deductibles. Public Safety: Adams County is investigating a shooting at a vacation rental near Wisconsin Dells, and a separate Highway 29 semi crash in Shawano County left an Antigo man dead. Food & Fun: Chippewa Falls’ Market on River keeps drawing “must-visit” buzz as one of Wisconsin’s top food halls, and Kwik Trip just won back-to-back national honors for best gas station food.

Courtroom Update: An Oshkosh father, John Madigan, is set to stand trial after allegedly violating a custody order by taking his 6-year-old son to California; he was arrested at Appleton International Airport and faces up to 12 years if convicted. Health & Outdoors: Illinois tick bites are sending more people to ERs, and Lyme remains the most common tick-borne illness—so Wisconsin travelers should treat tick season like a serious safety issue. Road-Trip Reality Check: Memorial Day travel is getting pricier in Wisconsin, with AAA putting gas at about $4.52 statewide—meaning more families are rethinking “big” getaways. Travel Planning Perk: Gov. Evers and WisDOT just released the 2026 Rustic Roads Guide, highlighting 126 Rustic Roads and five Scenic Byways for slower, scenic driving. Local Life: Milwaukee teens and city leaders held “Real Talk with 414” to push prevention and accountability ahead of summer.

Courtroom Update: Wisconsin prosecutors say a new trial isn’t warranted for Alexander Kraus, convicted in the 2019 killings of his grandparents in Grand Chute—arguing his appeal is an “extraordinary remedy.” Road-Trip Ready: Gov. Evers and WisDOT just released the 2026 Rustic Roads Guide, spotlighting 126 Rustic Roads and five Scenic Byways—perfect for Memorial Day weekend wandering. Safety on the Move: Wisconsin State Patrol is joining the Click It or Ticket campaign May 18–31, urging drivers to buckle up ahead of busy travel days. Northern Lights Watch: NOAA flags a chance to see auroras Monday night, with Wisconsin included if skies cooperate. Wildlife & Weather: Tick season coverage ramps up, and the Old Farmer’s Almanac points to warmer-than-average May conditions across much of the U.S., with some isolated storms. Local Flavor: Sheboygan Falls senior Amara Kennedy heads to the Jimmy Awards in New York after earning a top regional performance.

SS Badger Season Kickoff: Wisconsin’s iconic Lake Michigan ferry, the National Historic Landmark SS Badger, opened its 2026 run Friday—departing Ludington at 9 a.m., reaching Manitowoc by noon, then heading back at 2 p.m. for a 7 p.m. return. Weekend Plans: Opening-weekend festivities in Manitowoc included food vendors, and Saturday brings documentary screenings in Ludington plus a Q&A with the director and Badger historians. Road Updates: DOT construction is set for Pierce County (WIS 65/US 10 culvert work with detours and closures) and St. Croix County (spot lane repairs and overlays on WIS 35/64 and WIS 64). Travel Caution: Buc-ee’s Benton (Arkansas) is inching toward a late-summer opening, and local rules are already raising questions about overnight RV parking—worth noting for anyone planning a road trip. Health Watch: Tick bites are spiking again, with ER visits for tick bites at their highest for this time of year since 2017.

Nuclear Fusion Push: Wisconsin leaders, scientists, and industry folks met at the Wisconsin Institute for Discovery to pitch the state as a national hub for nuclear fusion—framing it as a fast-growing, carbon-free energy bet and a chance to build a workforce and policy pipeline. Tick Season Warning: ER visits for tick bites are spiking, with CDC data pointing to warmer weather driving more Lyme-related care across the Midwest and Northeast—Wisconsinites are being urged to take extra precautions outdoors. Road Safety: A head-on crash in Trempealeau County sent two people to the hospital; the driver of one vehicle was suspected of operating while intoxicated. Northern Lights Weekend: A geomagnetic storm could push aurora visibility as far south as Wisconsin, with the best odds in the northern tier but faint glows possible farther down. Travel & Tourism Notes: The Packers are topping NFL ticket demand after the 2026 schedule release, and Memorial Day events are ramping up around Milwaukee’s Forest Home Cemetery.

Tick Bite Surge: ER visits for tick bites are at their highest for this time of year since 2017, with warmer weather pushing more people toward Lyme disease treatment—Wisconsin travelers heading outdoors should check for ticks and stick to safer trail habits. Wildfire Funding Friction: New burn bans and shifting federal rules are complicating controlled burns, leaving some conservation groups short on the money and permissions they need to reduce future fire risk. Poison Ivy Season: Poison ivy is ramping up across Wisconsin; experts say “leaves of three” and staying on marked paths are your best bets, since the plant’s oil can spread on clothes, gear, and even pets. Road & Travel Notes: The Mitchell Interchange weekend closure is delayed to May 29–31 due to forecasted weather. Local Fun: Oshkosh hosted the Wisconsin State Arm Wrestling Championship, and the SS Badger kicked off its 2026 Lake Michigan season from Ludington.

Road & Weather: The Mitchell Interchange weekend closure is delayed—now set for May 29-31—after WISDOT pushed the shutdown due to forecasted showers and thunderstorms. Memorial Day in Milwaukee: Multiple observances are already underway, including a Forest Home Cemetery program with a memorial service, wreath-laying, and guided tours. Wildlife First: The DNR is urging people to leave young animals in the wild and call rehabbers for help, warning that well-meaning rescues can spread disease. Outdoor Skills: DNR outdoor skills programming kicks off with turkey-hunting basics like “Turkey Field to Fork” at Kettle Moraine later this month. Northern Lights Watch: Aurora may be visible Saturday night into Sunday across parts of Wisconsin and the North, with darker skies this weekend. Local Flavor & Travel: The Damn Coffee Co. opened in Crivitz, and the SS Badger’s 70th season continues to draw crowds at Lake Michigan ports.

Northern Lights Alert: NOAA is watching for aurora chances Saturday night into Sunday, with a new moon helping dark skies across Wisconsin and nearby states—just head away from city light. Tourism Spotlight: The SS Badger is back on Lake Michigan for its 70th season, with big waterfront sendoffs in Ludington and Manitowoc. Outdoor Safety: Wisconsin DNR is urging people to skip burning as wildfire danger stays high, especially with dry air and gusty winds. Local Travel & Events: Glacial Gardeners’ annual plant sale lands May 30 in Florence County, and the 79th Alice in Dairyland finals are set for Saturday in Wausau. Sports (Brewers): Milwaukee edged Minnesota 3-2, with an interference call playing a key role in the late comeback. Community Watch: A Madison man was sentenced to 97 months for drug trafficking and gun possession.

Oconomowoc City Hall: The Common Council will appoint a new District 2 alderman after Rusty McConnell resigned—candidates include former alderman Lou Kowieski, former challenger Andy Moroni, and Jason Cook, with the vote set for Tuesday. Wildfire Watch: Wisconsin DNR is warning that wildfire danger is high across much of the state, especially on warm, dry, windy days—officials urge extra caution with outdoor equipment and no outdoor burning. Immigration at Airports: A green-card holder, Everlee Amelia Wihongi, was detained by CBP after arriving at LAX, with DHS citing a prior THC conviction. Politics & Voting Power: A new push by Republicans to redraw maps is framed as a threat to Black voting power, with Democrats weighing counter-moves. Local Travel Disruptions: Milwaukee-area drivers face a weekend Mitchell Interchange ramp closure plus ongoing 27th Street bridge demolition and Highway 100 lane changes. Culture & Community: Stoughton’s Syttende Mai festival runs May 15–17, bringing Norwegian heritage, parades, music, food, and dancing downtown.

Northern Lights Watch: NOAA says a G1 geomagnetic storm could spark aurora visible from Wisconsin and nearby states Friday night into Saturday, with a new moon helping faint lights show. Highway Drama: Fond du Lac County released dashcam/bodycam from a May 9 chase that ended with a car going airborne into a field; the driver was arrested after a short foot pursuit. Brewers Momentum: Milwaukee beat the Padres 7-1, with Kyle Harrison striking out seven in five scoreless innings and Luis Rengifo driving in three. Milwaukee Culture: The Milwaukee Public Museum’s future home is nearing completion, with major interior work ramping up as it prepares to close the old site next January. Family Travel Safety: May is National Safe Kids Month—Wisconsin officials are urging parents to check car seats for recalls and expiration before road trips. Local Events: Milwaukee’s Traveling Beer Garden rolls through multiple parks this summer, starting with Wilson Park.