Paving the Way for Wisconsin Agriculture: Navigating the Agricultural Road Improvement Program (ARIP)

In Wisconsin, agricultural heritage is not just history—it is a crucial part of the modern economy. Yet, for many of our state’s farmers and producers, getting goods to market has become a logistical challenge due to aging infrastructure. Weight-restricted roads and deteriorating culverts often force agricultural equipment to take long, costly detours, cutting into the already thin margins of our state’s producers.

To address this, the state has launched the Agricultural Road Improvement Program (ARIP).

What is ARIP?

Established under 2023 Wisconsin Act 13, ARIP is a reimbursement grant program designed to improve rural roads, bridges, and culverts that are structurally deficient or subject to weight restrictions. The program is funded with $150 million in state aid, specifically targeted at removing the impediments that slow down the agricultural supply chain.

Unlike general transportation aids, ARIP is hyper-focused. Its primary goal is to upgrade “Class B” and posted weight-limited roads so they can be reclassified as “Class A” highways, allowing for the legal transport of heavier agricultural loads year-round.

Funding Rounds: What Municipalities Need to Know

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) is distributing these funds in phases. With the application period for the initial $50 million Round 1 solicitation having closed recently (December 2025), attention is now shifting to the next opportunity for funding.

Round 2 is anticipated to open in early 2026. This next phase is expected to distribute the remaining portion of the funds (approximately $70–$100 million). For municipalities that missed the first deadline or had applications that need refinement, now is the time to prepare.

Is Your Road Eligible?

Determining eligibility is the first hurdle in the application process. Generally, for a project to qualify for up to 90% state cost-share reimbursement, it must meet the following criteria:

• Classification: The road must be functionally classified as a “local road” or “minor collector.”
• Agricultural Access: The route must provide access to lands or facilities used for the production of agricultural goods (including forestry).
• Current Restriction: The road must currently be designated as a “Class B” highway or be subject to posted weight limitations for at least one month per year.
• The “Lift” Requirement: The proposed improvement must result in the removal of the weight restriction. After construction, the road cannot be re-posted with weight limits (except in emergencies).

The Role of Legal Counsel in ARIP Projects

While ARIP offers generous funding, accessing and managing these grants requires strict adherence to Wisconsin statutes. As a municipal attorney, I assist local government clients in avoiding the common legal pitfalls that can jeopardize funding or stall projects.

Here is where legal oversight is critical:

1. Application Accuracy and Eligibility Review The statutory criteria for ARIP (Wis. Stat. § 86.31(3o)) are specific. We help municipalities verify that their proposed projects meet the strict legal definitions of “agricultural access” and ensure that the “no-reposting” requirement will not conflict with future local ordinances.
2. Right-of-Way and Easements Expanding a road or replacing a culvert often requires work beyond the existing pavement. If your project requires acquiring land or temporary construction easements from adjacent property owners, these transactions must comply with Wisconsin’s eminent domain and property laws. We handle the drafting of deeds, easements, and negotiations with landowners to ensure clear title and community goodwill.
3. Bidding and Procurement Compliance Accepting state funds triggers specific public bidding requirements. Municipalities must ensure that the engineering and construction contracts are bid out in accordance with Wisconsin law to avoid challenges from unsuccessful bidders or claw-backs from the state.
4. Intergovernmental Agreements Many agricultural routes cross jurisdictional boundaries. We assist in drafting intergovernmental agreements between towns, villages, and counties to cooperate on joint applications, sharing both the local match costs and the administrative burden.

Looking Ahead

The Agricultural Road Improvement Program is a rare “win-win” for local governments and the farming community. It reduces the tax burden on local residents for road repairs while simultaneously boosting the efficiency of local agribusiness.

At West & Dunn, LLC, we understand the intersection of municipal law, property rights, and state regulation. Whether you are a town board member preparing for the Round 2 solicitation or a municipal clerk managing a Round 1 award, we are here to ensure your road to improvement is paved with sound legal strategy.