DES MOINES, Iowa – March 28, 2013 – In West Des Moines, the capacity improvement on Interstate 35 will continue this year with the construction of new southbound lanes between the I-35/I-80/I-235 interchange and Raccoon River bridges,beginning Monday, April 1, weather permitting, according to the Iowa Department of Transportation’s Des Moines construction office.
Traffic will be maintained in two lanes in each direction using the existing northbound lanes and median sections constructed last year. Access to Mills Civic Parkway will be maintained and single lane closures may occur during off-peak hours.
As part of this project both ramps and loops west of I-35 at Grand Avenue will be closed starting April 14, to reconstruct the Grand Avenue interchange. Only northbound access to I-35 from Grand Avenue will be permitted. Grand Avenue traffic will be switched to one eastbound and one westbound lane in the existing westbound lanes for construction of the eastbound lanes.
This construction project is expected to be completed by late November.
The Iowa DOT reminds motorists to drive with caution, obey posted speed limit and other signs in the work area, and be aware that traffic fines for moving violations are at least double in work zones. As in all work zones, drivers should stay alert, allow ample space between vehicles and wear seat belts.
