Wisconsin Statutes Corporations (Ch. 180 to 188) § 182.36. Authority to construct grade separations and relocate public roads, streets, highways, railroads and public utilities

(1) It is declared that the construction of modern toll roads in this state is in the promotion of public and social welfare and for the benefit of public travel. It is recognized that in the construction of such highways, it will become necessary to make changes and adjustments in the lines and grades of public roads, streets, highways, railroads and public utility systems and, in some instances, to relocate the same.

(2) In the furtherance of the public interest, the corporation is hereby granted the authority to construct grade separations at intersections of any turnpike project with public roads, streets, highways and railroads and to change and adjust the lines and grades of public roads, streets and highways, and, if necessary, to relocate the same. Such changes in public roads, streets and highways shall be made with the approval of the appropriate governmental highway or street authority. If the corporation and local authority cannot agree in any matter, such changes may be made with the consent of the department of transportation. The cost of the grade separations and changes and any damages incurred thereby shall be ascertained and paid by the turnpike corporation as a part of the cost of such turnpike project.

(3) The corporation may enter into contracts with public utilities, including railroads, for the removal or change in location of the lines of such public utilities where the same is deemed necessary by the corporation in the construction of the project. Such contracts shall be for the payment of damages caused the utilities by the relocation of their lines. In the event the corporation and the utility are unable to reach an agreement, the public service commission shall direct the manner, location and time allowed for the change in the utility line and the corporation shall be liable for the reasonable costs of such change. In the event the public utility fails to comply with the order of the public service commission it shall be liable to the corporation for all damages occasioned by such failure.