The Wisconsin Asphalt Industry Insider is a platform for WAPA members to share what's new and exciting at their companies with pavement owners, operators, and contractors across our state. We hope you find this information useful! | | Accelerating the Nation’s Transition to a Carbon-Free Future | | |
Constellation Energy has been supplying natural gas to pavers/asphalters and industrial customers in Wisconsin since 1988. We are one of the largest competitive natural gas suppliers in the U.S. We help customers manage natural gas price risk, optimize volume balancing, and achieve cost-effective outcomes through strategic sourcing and proprietary systems.
Our Constellation Navigator platform goes far beyond natural gas supply—it’s a subscription-based energy intelligence tool that integrates utility bill management, carbon accounting, sustainability advisory, and rebate administration. It transforms complex energy data into actionable insights that help reduce costs, streamline operations, and meet climate targets. Customers work with us to procure renewable energy credits (RECs) and carbon offsets to meet their sustainability and carbon reductions goals.
Just as important, we believe in partnership. Our team works closely with customers to demystify the natural gas market, explain pricing dynamics, and build customized strategies aligned with your goals—whether that’s budget certainty, emissions reduction, or regulatory compliance. We offer educational resources, collaborative planning sessions, and ongoing advisory support to ensure your strategy evolves with the market.
| | BATT Builds Value Where it Counts: In Our Lab and With Your Team | | |
BATT continually strives to find ways to serve our clients better. Last year, we expanded our binder lab with new space and additional equipment, giving us greater capacity and broader testing options. These upgrades directly translate to faster turnaround times, fewer bottlenecks, and more comprehensive data for your projects.
BATT’s binder testing program is designed to generate actionable performance data, not just routine results. We evaluate binder performance using AASHTP M 332, including MSCR testing, to verify, formulate, and blend for optimized, high-performing binders.
But testing is only part of our story. The BATT Lab also delivers flexible, targeted training for asphalt teams at every level. From the fundamentals covered in Asphalt 101 to highly customized sessions that address your company’s specific goals, we adapt our instruction to meet your needs. Whether your team requires hands-on lab work, updates on evolving specifications, or help troubleshooting mix issues in the field, our training emphasizes practical, usable instruction.
Whether the asphalt experts at BATT are delivering A++ binder testing results or engaging with your team in proven effective training, our continual aim is to meet our clients’ needs with responsive, accurate, and dependable services.
For Better Asphalt Today & Tomorrow, call on BATT.
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| Helping Build Safer Communities | | |
Century Traffic is a family-owned business committed to helping the traveling public get home safely. We have the scale to service any traffic needs on a road building project, but also the family roots to keep projects focused on what matters most: safety, quality, and responsiveness. Every project we take on is guided by our mission to help build safer communities.
We provide the full range of pavement marking and traffic control solutions designed for precision and durability, including epoxy pavement markings, preformed tape applications, thermoplastic markings, pavement grooving, traffic paint and specialty surface markings. Our comprehensive traffic control solutions, including SMART work zones, ensure safety and smooth traffic flow.
With the Midwest's largest fleet and workforce, we can respond quickly to time-sensitive projects while minimizing traffic disruptions—bringing the resources and responsiveness needed to deliver on demanding schedules.
Our specialized expertise isn't just about applying products to pavement. It's about meticulous preparation and precise execution that ensures markings withstand years of heavy traffic and harsh weather.
With proven expertise for decades, Century Traffic serves communities throughout Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota, and Kansas.
| | Get Connected with “TransTech Connect” | | |
TransTech Systems takes another major step forward in the management of asphalt paving field density testing. In addition to a new non-nuclear asphalt density gauge, the PQI 380+, they have developed a cloud-based data management platform called TransTech Connect.
By combining the Bluetooth-enabled PQI 380+ and TransTech Connect app, real-time density and compaction information can be seamlessly integrated, increasing efficiency by reducing costs and time by eliminating manual data entry.
Together, the PQI 380+ and the TransTech Connect app form a complete platform for every step of the asphalt density management workflow. The system generates comprehensive reports with GPS map visualization and detailed QC analysis for multiple projects, all on a single, easy-to-use platform.
Measure and manage your asphalt density data with precision and ease from multiple projects. Each PQI 380+ density gauge linked to the TransTech Connect app will upload test results as quickly as they are taken allowing greater visibility and control of your paving operations.
Designed specifically for paving teams, it streamlines measurement collection, analysis, and reporting while ensuring compliance and quality control.
No more waiting for critical density test results at the end of the day by text or e-mail. No more time-consuming manual data entry into Excel spreadsheets for analysis and reporting.
Visit www.transtechconnect.com to start your free trial. Saved data from the standard PQI 380 can also be uploaded onto the TransTech Connect app.
| | Cargill Anova and Balanced Mix Design: Enhancing Pavement Performance in Wisconsin | | |
As agencies across the Midwest seek longer-lasting, more sustainable asphalt solutions, Cargill’s Anova rejuvenators are emerging as a valuable tool in Balanced Mix Design (BMD). These bio-based additives enhance the durability of asphalt mixes, particularly in cold climates where low-temperature cracking is a persistent challenge.
The City of Chicago has adopted Anova in its BMD approach to improve pavement resilience under harsh freeze-thaw cycles. Field performance has shown reduced cracking and improved flexibility, allowing for extended pavement life and reduced maintenance costs. Chicago’s success underscores the value of integrating rejuvenators into BMD to meet both performance and sustainability goals.
In Janesville, Wisconsin, Anova was used in a municipal paving project that included high levels of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP). The mix met stringent performance criteria, including excellent resistance to low-temperature cracking, while supporting environmental goals through increased RAP usage. This demonstrates how Anova can help municipalities balance sustainability with durable pavement performance.
By enabling higher RAP content without compromising quality, Anova supports Wisconsin’s broader efforts to implement BMD across the state. Its proven benefits in both urban and regional applications make it a strong candidate for agencies seeking cost-effective, resilient asphalt solutions.
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Centerline rumble strips (CLRS) are among the most cost-effective highway safety countermeasures available to prevent crashes and are being used on an increasing percentage of Wisconsin’s asphalt pavements. A recently completed study from the National Road Research Alliance (NRRA) evaluated the effects of milling CLRS on pavement durability and tested how material treatments impact cracking resistance, permeability, and noise functionality. Findings highlight that installation of CLRS may produce conditions that facilitate more rapid deterioration of the longitudinal joint relative to control sections without rumble strips.
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Use of a Void Reducing Asphalt Membrane (VRAM), such as J-Band®, is shown in the research to effectively mitigate these conditions. In fact, VRAM reduced crack propagation in CLRS sections by up to 34% relative to control sections without VRAM! Importantly, because VRAM is used under the CLRS it does not negatively impact rumble strip functionality as a safety tool alerting drivers of lane departure.
Field performance after nearly a decade of service validates the durability benefits of J-Band when used under CLRS. In the project example shown here, the control sections exhibit greater crack width at the joint location and extensive ancillary cracking near the joint, whereas the J-Band section exhibits nearly zero ancillary cracking and comparatively narrower crack width.
To access the final NRRA report, visit MnDOT’s digital library: Materials-Based Methods to Improve Rumble Strip Durability. For more information on how J-Band is preserving rumble strips across the Midwest and for additional resources visit: https://thejointsolution.com/rumblestrips/.
| | Topcon SmoothRide™ Modern Road Resurfacing | | |
Welcome to a Better Way to Pave and Mill
The Topcon SmoothRide™ workflow starts your project with precision in mind and better material management on the horizon. The need for traffic lane closures is gone. Quick 3D scanning has replaced hours of point-to-point surveying and with intuitive software, smoother and more durable results are delivered.
Time saved
Detail existing surface conditions through scanning and instantly capture millions of points while at traffic speeds. Smoothness achieved: Variable milling and paving can easily be obtained through designs based on actual conditions. Set a compaction percentage factor when paving to ensure a smooth finish after final compaction. Material managed: Eliminate guesswork and plan smarter. An understanding of existing surface details pre-construction allows for accurate material calculation.
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Application focused
SmoothRide is the perfect tool for mainline paving or milling projects requiring long sections of road that need resurfacing. This complete workflow allows you to stay productive and ahead of schedule – substantially increasing your bonus.
SmoothRide offers:
- A simple process, smart design and smooth results.
- A fully automated system with GNSS or LPS and optional 2D sensors.
- Accurate thickness boundaries while maintaining projected yield.
- No need for strings, analog skis or lasers.
- Easy surface data management and design.
- Safer data collection at speed without lane closures.
For more information contact:
Jon Freiberg – Topcon Solutions Store
262-623-0225
jfreiberg@topcon.com
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| CORRE Welcomes Jim Griesbach as a Business Development Manager | | |
CORRE is pleased to announce the addition of Jim Griesbach to the Wausau office as a Business Development Manager.
Jim brings a wealth of industry knowledge and connections to the team from his 35 years at Marathon County’s Highway Department, including nearly 20 years serving as Commissioner. He will be working with CORRE to provide business development services statewide.
“We are very fortunate and excited to have Jim join our team,” says CORRE president and CEO Troy Gagner. “He holds a tremendous amount of respect in the industry, throughout the state, and throughout the various agencies. We are honored to have his expertise and experience as a resource.”
CORRE is a full-service transportation engineering firm offering large-firm capabilities with small-firm attitude. Our six offices and 100+ employees located throughout Wisconsin serve local government and WisDOT with full-service planning, design, and construction services.
CORRE delivers a unique blend of professional engineering expertise and in-house specialties unmatched anywhere in the state. Our teams provide comprehensive support in areas such as environmental, historical, real estate, and survey work. By handling a wide range of capabilities internally, we ensure high-quality, cost-effective solutions from design through construction.
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OnStation, the leading digital stationing platform, will host a virtual event designed to bring the future of stationing to life on Tuesday, Nov. 18 at 9:00 a.m. EST.
This exclusive event will give attendees an inside look at the 2025 - 2026 product roadmap, the year’s most impactful feature releases, and new platform integrations. Participants will also have access to dynamic breakout sessions and personalized one-on-one training with OnStation experts.
The program will feature a keynote address from Mack Long, former Director of the Montana Department of Transportation. In his presentation, Mack will share practical strategies to:
- Strengthen collaboration and align field goals with DOT priorities.
- Lead with momentum to build buy-in and accelerate progress.
- Break through common barriers to innovation.
- Position your team as problem-solvers who stand out for driving change.
Whether you’re in the field or leading operations, this event is designed to equip your team with the insights, tools, and strategies to work smarter and lead with confidence.
Register now at www.onstationapp.com/onstation-nation25.
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Wis-Coat Expands Innovation and Storytelling in Pavement Preservation
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2025 has been a milestone year for Wis-Coat Asphalt Maintenance, as the company continues to blend craftsmanship, community, and innovation throughout Wisconsin’s pavement industry. From completing multiple municipal projects and expanding its residential and commercial sealcoating services to leading industry storytelling through the In The Mix with Marvin Joles podcast, Wis-Coat remains committed to elevating awareness and appreciation for asphalt maintenance.
This year, Wis-Coat introduced enhanced educational content for property owners and contractors, highlighting the long-term value of preventive pavement care. The team also strengthened its focus on visual marketing and workforce development, partnering with schools, media outlets, and trade events to inspire the next generation of asphalt professionals.
Looking ahead, Wis-Coat continues to invest in new technology, training, and team development to deliver top-tier results while keeping its roots firmly planted in small-town values.
| | | The company’s mission remains simple but powerful: to show that asphalt is opportunity—for families, businesses, and the future of our industry. | | |
Thanks as always to all WAPA members who participated in this newsletter.
In closing, we would like to remind readers about our 66th Annual Conference and Business Meeting, to be held at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells on December 2 - 3, 2025.
Register to attend, exhibit or sponsor.
See the Conference Page for details and hotel information, and make your plans to attend the asphalt event of the year in Wisconsin!
As always, please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or if there is ever any way we may be of assistance. Thanks again, and see you in December!
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