The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) has opened a new $70 million funding round under the Agricultural Roads Improvement Program (ARIP) to support upgrades to rural roads and culverts. The funding targets infrastructure that supports the movement of agricultural and forestry products across the state.
The program focuses on repairing and improving local roads, bridges, and culverts that face structural deficiencies or seasonal weight restrictions. Eligible projects must provide access to agricultural lands or production facilities and meet state classification criteria for local roads or minor collectors.
The funding forms part of a broader $150 million state investment under the 2025–27 biennial budget. WisDOT will reimburse up to 90 percent of eligible project costs, while local governments will fund the remaining share. A portion of the total allocation also supports small structure repairs under a related initiative.
WisDOT administers the program through its Local Roads Improvement Program framework. Local governments will submit applications and oversee project delivery, subject to state approval.
Applications are due by June 29, 2026, with award announcements expected in fall 2026. Previous funding rounds supported more than 120 projects across over 50 counties, improving routes used to transport millions of tons of agricultural goods each year.