Interstate 39

Interstate 39 is a major highway running approximately 306 miles from Normal, Illinois to Wausau, Wisconsin. It serves as a crucial north-south corridor connecting the two states and passes through several significant cities along its route.

Construction started in 1979 to address safety concerns on the older U.S. Route 51. The new interstate was designed to provide a safer alternative for traffic moving between the two states.

The highway connects multiple educational centers, including Illinois State University in Normal and the University of Wisconsin campuses in Madison and Stevens Point.

The highway is well-maintained with clear signage for directions and destinations. Watch for construction zones and traffic conditions, especially near major cities along the corridor.

For about 29 miles in Wisconsin, this route merges with Interstate 90 and 94 in a rare three-interstate overlap. Few places in the country experience this type of highway convergence.

Location: Wisconsin

Location: Illinois

Inception: 1989

GPS coordinates: 41.51269,-89.05060

Latest update: December 6, 2025 22:07