Allison BarnetteOn June 10, the Iowa Transportation Commission approved the fiscal year (FY) 2026–2030 Iowa Transportation Improvement Program, which outlines $4.3 billion in planned investments across the state’s multimodal transportation system, including highways, bridges, public transit, rail, aviation and trails.
Of the funding, $3.8 billion is set aside for improving safety and general conditions of highways and bridges. This is a significant investment considering its 3.2 million population and the 8,000 miles of rural roads of 9,400 total state miles. These rural roads play a vital role in supporting agriculture, freight movement and connecting small communities across the state.
The transportation plan has scheduled annual reviews so that state authorities have the flexibility to adapt and respond to changing priorities based on safety, funding or timing.
A glance at this year’s update shows a slight increase in funding, but the most noteworthy change is an investment focus on bridges. Nearly $1.6 billion is allocated for bridges improvement in the current program as part of a long-term commitment to repair and replace poor-condition bridges. Iowa has whittled away at the problem with targeting 256 bridges in 2006 down to 26 in 2025.
Major interstate projects include upgrades along I-80, I-35, I-380 and I-235, as well as a new Mississippi River bridge in Scott County. Iowa DOT will spend $32.3 million on pavement rehab along state highways and US 69.
In addition, the plan adds 45 new truck parking spots across its 53 rest stops and updates interchanges and bypasses along state roads. All planned construction fits within the goals of making Iowa’s transportation system more modern, safe and efficient.
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