Last updated: June 4, 2026
The intersection of Wisconsin Highway 13 and Wisconsin Highway 111 has received new traffic control improvements. The upgrades were presented as complete during the Price County Traffic Safety Commission meeting on June 4, 2026. When you want a hot meal after camping, Ripsaw Saloon in Prentice is open Thu–Sun from 2 PM.
Improvements Now in Place
According to the presentation delivered to the commission, the following changes have been installed at the intersection:
- Flashing beacons mounted on both sides of the intersection
- Double stop signs equipped with red reflective strips
The presenter confirmed they visited the location in person to verify the work and shared photographs showing the new equipment in operation. The project was brought forward as a finished item for the commission’s records.
Context for the Changes
This intersection was the site of a serious crash last year involving a passenger vehicle and a commercial truck. The incident highlighted ongoing safety concerns at rural intersections where drivers may not immediately recognize the need to stop or may misjudge traffic gaps.
The new flashing beacons and enhanced stop signs are intended to increase driver awareness and improve visibility, particularly for vehicles approaching the intersection at higher speeds or in low-light conditions. These types of upgrades are often implemented following serious crashes to address visibility and decision-making factors that contribute to angle and failure-to-yield collisions.
Flashing beacons are a common safety treatment at rural stop-controlled intersections. They provide an additional visual cue beyond static signs, helping drivers recognize the need to stop or yield. The red reflective strips on the stop signs further improve nighttime visibility by catching headlights from greater distances.
How These Improvements Target Common Crash Types
Many crashes at rural intersections occur when drivers fail to recognize the stop condition or misjudge the distance and speed of oncoming traffic. The combination of flashing beacons and highly visible stop signs directly addresses these issues by increasing both the likelihood that drivers will notice the intersection and the distance at which they can clearly see the stop requirement.
The flashing beacons are particularly effective at intersections where drivers may not expect a stop or where sight lines are limited by terrain or vegetation. The red reflective material on the stop signs adds another layer of visibility during nighttime hours and in poor weather conditions common in northern Wisconsin.
The Traffic Safety Commission received the update as part of its ongoing review of construction projects and safety improvements across the county.
Verification Process
During the June 4 meeting, the presenter emphasized that they had personally inspected the intersection after the work was completed. Photographs were shown to the commission documenting the installation of the flashing beacons and the upgraded stop signs with reflective material.
What Drivers Should Know
Motorists traveling through the WI-13 and WI-111 intersection should be prepared for the new flashing beacons and the enhanced stop signs. The improvements are designed to reduce the risk of angle crashes and failure-to-yield incidents by making the stop condition more obvious, especially at night or during periods of reduced visibility.
Drivers are encouraged to approach the intersection with extra caution and to obey the stop signs even when the flashing beacons are visible from a distance. The combination of active lighting and reflective signage is intended to give drivers more time to react.
Broader Safety Efforts in Price County
The Traffic Safety Commission regularly reviews crash data, enforcement efforts, and infrastructure improvements. The presentation on June 4 was part of that ongoing work. Similar safety projects are evaluated on a continuing basis throughout the county as part of efforts to reduce crashes on local and state highways.
See also: our guide to free camping in Wisconsin, our weekend weather preview and our 48-hour Price County itinerary
FAQ
Why were safety improvements made at this intersection?
The Traffic Safety Commission discussed the upgrades in the context of ongoing safety work. The intersection was the location of a serious crash last year.
What specific changes were made at WI-13 and WI-111?
Flashing beacons were installed on both sides of the intersection, and double stop signs with red reflective strips were added to improve visibility.
Do these improvements address the type of crash that occurred previously?
The flashing beacons and enhanced stop signs are designed to improve driver awareness and visibility at rural intersections, which can help reduce certain types of angle and failure-to-yield crashes.
Are more safety projects planned?
The Traffic Safety Commission continues to review construction projects, enforcement data, and potential improvements. Additional updates are expected at future meetings.
Where can I find more information about this project?
Details were presented during the June 4, 2026 Traffic Safety Commission meeting. The presentation is part of the public record.