CLARION — A planned road closure on Iowa Highway 3 between Clarion and Goldfield has been delayed and is now expected to begin Monday, July 20, 2026, as crews prepare to replace the bridge over Eagle Creek.
The Iowa Department of Transportation said the closure is expected to remain in place until November 15, weather permitting.
The project had originally been scheduled to begin July 6, but DOT officials said the start date was pushed back because of a supply issue involving a key material needed for construction of the bridge.
The closure will affect Iowa 3 between Clarion and Goldfield in Wright County. During the project, drivers will be detoured around the work zone by traveling south for approximately 5 miles on Wright County Road R-33 to Wright County Road C-54, then east on C-54 for approximately 10 miles, and then north about 5 miles on U.S. Highway 69 to reconnect with Iowa 3.
The project is being handled through the Iowa DOT’s Mason City construction office.
DOT officials are reminding motorists to slow down, obey posted speed limits and watch for workers, signs and changing traffic patterns near the work zone. Traffic fines for moving violations are at least double in Iowa work zones.
Drivers are also urged to allow extra travel time, leave more space between vehicles and wear seat belts.
Updated travel information is available through Iowa DOT’s 511 system at 511ia.org, by calling 511 within Iowa, by calling 800-288-1047 nationwide, or by using the Iowa 511 mobile app.