ATLANTIC, Iowa – As summer rolls in, so does a flurry of road construction activity throughout southwest Iowa. Iowa DOT District Transportation Planner Scott Suhr emphasized the importance of maximizing productivity during the state's limited construction season, with multiple significant infrastructure upgrades underway across the region.

“The short construction season in Iowa means we have to make the most of every day we get,” said Suhr. “This year is no exception.”

Among the major undertakings is the Council Bluffs Interstate System project, which Suhr said is nearing completion and is on track to wrap up this summer. The longstanding project is a major investment in easing congestion and improving mobility in one of Iowa’s busiest corridors.

In addition, crews are actively working on Interstate 80 near the Raccoon River Bridge, impacting areas such as Van Meter, De Soto, and parts of Dallas County. According to Suhr, this project should reach completion in the fall, although traffic will be maintained throughout the process.

“We’ve also got resurfacing projects underway on I-80 through Cass and Adair Counties,” Suhr added. “While construction is happening, we’re making sure the interstate stays open to drivers.”

Suhr stressed the importance of driver awareness and caution in work zones, especially as summer traffic picks up. “Motorists need to slow down when entering and moving through these construction areas,” he said. “It’s critical for the safety of both the workers and the drivers.”

A bridge replacement project on Highway 71 north of Brayton is also creating temporary changes. Drivers should expect brief delays as a temporary traffic signal is controlling one-lane traffic during construction.

Outside of the interstates, the Iowa DOT has launched several rural highway upgrades:

• A resurfacing project on Highway 148 runs from Corning south to Bedford, improving key connections in Adams and Taylor Counties.
• On Highway 25, resurfacing is taking place from Highway 34 north to Clearfield, covering Union and Ringgold counties.
• Highway 169 is under improvement from Highway 34 north to the Madison County line.
• Highway 59 is being resurfaced from the Fremont County line south toward Shenandoah.

Suhr reiterated that although delays may be frustrating, the long-term benefits for Iowa’s transportation infrastructure are well worth the temporary inconvenience.

“These projects are essential for maintaining safe, reliable travel throughout the region,” Suhr said. “Once complete, they’ll offer better roads, reduced travel times, and improved safety for years to come.”

For up-to-date information on road closures, traffic conditions, and project timelines, travelers are encouraged to check 511ia.org or use the Iowa 511 mobile app.

Originally reported by Tom Robinson in Western Iowa Today.