DES MOINES, Iowa — Drivers will be feeling the dreaded effects of roadwork at the Hickman and I-35/80 interchange near the edge of Clive and Urbandale for the next four years, according to the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT).
The good news for drivers is that the DOT says, "I-35/80, University Avenue, and Douglas Avenue will remain open at all times."
However, that section of Hickman Road is expected to be closed in 2027 for reconstruction as part of the project.
After conducting a traffic study, which determined that traffic volume in the area was expected to climb 35% by 2042, it was decided the interchange update would be necessary to accommodate growth while simultaneously increasing safety and improving traffic flow.
Measured average daily traffic volume in the area, according to 2022 DOT measurements:
- Hickman Road west of I-35 : 36,700 vehicles
- Hickman Road east of I-35 : 27,200 vehicles
- I-35/80 around Hickman Road : 99,500 vehicles
- Ramps at Hickman Road : 7,600-9,000 vehicles
The replacement of the interchange at Hickman Road and I-35/80 will see a move to a diverging diamond interchange style, much like what is seen in Ankeny at I-35 and 1st Street, the DOT says.
The $94 million project will also include adding lanes to Hickman Road and I-35/80 from University to Douglas as well.
Specific needs the DOT says the project addresses include:
- Improving congestion-related safety performance of the interchange, the Hickman Road corridor, and the I-35/80 corridor
- Increasing vehicle capacity on the interstate and Hickman Road system, especially during peak hours
- Providing better accessibility across the interstate for pedestrians and bicyclists
- Correcting geometric deficiencies to further improve traffic operations
- Beginning Sept. 16 and expected to last 30 days - I-35/80 northbound on-ramps will be closed
- Beginning Oct. 1, Clive Greenbelt Trail will be closed where it cross under I-35/80 due to pedestrian bridge reconstruction
- Detours will be made available
