History of Wisconsin Department of Transportation in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 30, 2026

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) is a Wisconsin state governmental agency that oversees the planning, construction, and maintenance of the state's highway system. Its responsibilities extend beyond roadways to encompass various modes of transportation, including rail (passenger and freight), public transit, water transport, and air transport. WisDOT provides partial funding to Amtrak's Milwaukee-to-Chicago Hiawatha service.

1905: Amendment Introduced for Road Funding

In 1905, the state legislature introduced an amendment to the state constitution that would allow the state to fund construction and improvement of roads.

1908: Amendment Approved by Voters

In 1908, the amendment allowing the state to fund road construction and improvement, which was introduced in 1905, was approved by voters.

June 14, 1911: State Highway Commission Legislation Signed

On June 14, 1911, Governor Francis McGovern signed legislation creating the State Highway Commission.

1912: Wisconsin Road School Started

In 1912, the commission started the Wisconsin Road School to develop best practices for road construction and maintenance.

1925: Highway Fund Created

In 1925, a highway fund was created by charging a tax on fuel of two cents per gallon, providing the commission with $15.2 million in the next fiscal year.

1929: Commission Reorganized

In 1929, the State Highway Commission was reorganized, changing it to three full-time members.

1940: Commission Expansion

By 1940, the responsibilities of the State Highway Commission had continued to expand, resulting in a staff of 500 employees.

1967: Wisconsin Department of Transportation Formed

In 1967, the Highway Commission was merged with the Wisconsin Aeronautics Commission, Department of Motor Vehicles, and the Wisconsin State Patrol to form the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.

2014: Amendment Ratified for Transportation Funding

In 2014, Wisconsin voters ratified an amendment to the state constitution, ensuring the existence of the Department of Transportation and mandating that transportation-related taxes and fees be used solely for transportation purposes.