Iowa DOT to host open house for Southwest Mixmaster Reconstruction Project
AMES, Iowa – Oct. 14, 2026 – The Iowa Department of Transportation invites the public to attend a Public Information Meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026, to learn about the upcoming reconstruction of the Interstate 35/I‑80/I‑235 Southwest Mixmaster Interchange. The multi‑year project, beginning in 2026 and continuing through 2029, will modernize one of Iowa’s busiest interchanges to improve safety, capacity, and traffic flow.
Attendees will have the opportunity to review planned improvements, hear about expected traffic impacts, and speak directly with project staff.
Meeting Details:
Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Iowa Farm Bureau, 5400 University Avenue
West Des Moines, Iowa
Project Overview
The reconstruction will reconfigure the interchange to reduce congestion and weaving by replacing existing loop and directional ramps with new flyover bridges. Additional roadway improvements will occur on I‑35, I‑80, I‑235, and at nearby interchanges including Hickman Road. Key project elements include:
- New flyover bridges connecting southbound I‑35/westbound I‑80 to westbound I‑80 and eastbound I‑235.
- Added lanes and improved roadway geometry to increase capacity.
- Supporting improvements across the surrounding corridor.
Construction Timeline Highlights 2026: Preparation Work
Initial work includes building piers for the future flyover bridge, placing temporary pavement, and installing barrier rail. No full ramp closures are expected, though one short‑term ramp lane closure may be needed.
2027: Roadway Widening & Flyover Preparations
Construction includes widening southbound I‑35/westbound I‑80 and major paving on I‑235. The University Avenue entrance ramp to southbound I‑35/westbound I‑80 will close in spring 2027 through 2029. Hickman Road will also be under construction this year as that project wraps us.
2028: Flyover Bridge Construction
Major closures will include:
- Northbound I‑35 to eastbound I‑235 ramp (April–November 2028)
- Westbound I‑235 to southbound I‑35 ramp (April 2028–July 2029)
- Temporary closures at Valley West Drive and 50th Street
2029: Final Connections & Completion
Work wraps up with reconstruction of westbound I‑235 between 50th and 60th streets, final tie‑ins, and removal of outdated ramps.
For more details, please visit https://iowadot.gov/modes-travel/roads-highways/major-construction-projects/des-moines-area-interstate-projects/southwest-mixmaster-construction
Public Engagement and Contact Information
The public is encouraged to attend the meeting to learn more, ask questions, and stay informed as construction progresses. Ongoing updates, schedule changes, and closure information will be available at www.511ia.org and through the Iowa 511 app.
The Iowa DOT reminds motorists to drive with caution, obey the 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.
The latest traveler information is available anytime through our 511 system. Visit 511ia.org; call 511 (within Iowa) or 800-288-1047 (nationwide); stay connected with 511 on Facebook or X (find links at https://iowadot.gov/travel-tools/iowa-511/511-social-media-sites); or download the free app to your mobile device.
It’s easy to subscribe to Your 511 and sign up to receive email/text alerts. Visit https://new.511ia.org/#login to sign up. For instructions and help with this feature, visit https://www.511ia.org/help/section/how-to-create-and-manage-a-511-account.html.
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For questions about this project contact Shelby Ebel, District 1 Office, at 515-239-1996 or [email protected].
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