Highway 65/69

An important meeting will be held in mid-June between Indianola officials and the Iowa Department of Transportation (IDOT). The purpose is to begin dialogue on a potential improvement project for Highway 65/69 south of Highway 92.

While the project scope has yet to be determined, the stretch between 92 and West 17th has been the topic in recent years. Discussion will also include improving the two-lanes to three-lanes or possibly four although the lack of available property on either side of 65/69 could make four lanes nearly impossible. Only further research will tell.

Even if dialogue goes very well, the project will be several years in the future considering it is not even in the IDOT’s five-year plan. Once in the plan (subject to Commission approval), project funding then becomes the next hurdle. And, we all know funding is never an easy challenge. The city will be expected to share some of the cost related to curb/gutter and storm sewer since the IDOT only paves slab-on-grade roadways. There may be other city expenses as well.

However, I am very optimistic that IDOT reps are meeting with the city to begin discussions. We have expressed a need for this project for several years and hopefully we are making some real progress. Not only will this project make the highway safer, but also, it will improve traffic flow and vehicle convenience.

Indianola is fortunate to have a very good relationship with IDOT officials as evidenced by the North Highway 65/69 improvements over the last several years. We now need to continue those relations and begin improving the south end of our community as well.

If you have any questions about these discussions or any other city issue, please feel free to contact me.