Portage has a local population of 9,306 and serves a regional population of more than 45,000. Recent road improvements allow for a smooth flow of traffic to and from the city. Interstate Highways 90/94 and 39 lie just outside of town; travelers from Milwaukee, Chicago and beyond can continue on I-90/94 to the Twin Cities and points west. They can also choose I-39 to reach industrial destinations on the upper Wisconsin River and vacation spots further north. Two U.S. highways—51 and 16—pass through the city and intersect State highway 33.

Portage is about 35 miles from the state capital at Madison, 90 minutes from Milwaukee and about three hours from Chicago or the Twin Cities.

The local Amtrak station serves rail passengers traveling throughout the nation. The Canadian Rail mainline provides rail freight service.

On the north side of town, private and chartered planes utilize Portage Airport’s modern facilities and 3,800-ft. lighted runway. The Dane County Regional Airport, just 35 minutes from town, offers flights from carriers such as American, Midwest Express, Delta, Northwest, United and TWA.

A cab service in town operates 18 hours a day and free van service shuttles seniors who are no longer able to drive.

Its prime location near major commerce and tourist centers in central Wisconsin, especially the Wisconsin Dells, Baraboo, and Madison, makes Portage especially attractive to new businesses and industry.

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