(KTIV) — The Iowa Department of Transportation is considering additional changes along U.S. Highway 75 near Le Mars, including possible adjustments to speed limits and intersection designs.
The discussion was brought before the Plymouth County Board of Supervisors during its June 16 meeting when Iowa DOT District 3 Engineer Jessica Felix briefed supervisors on an upcoming public open house.
Potential Speed Limit Changes
According to Felix, the Iowa DOT is studying speed zones along Highway 75 between Hinton and Le Mars, particularly as motorists travel out of Hinton.
Currently, drivers encounter several speed limit changes in a relatively short distance, with posted speeds transitioning from 35 mph to 45 mph, then 55 mph, and eventually 65 mph.
Felix said the DOT is likely to recommend removing the 65 mph zone altogether and extending the remaining speed zones, creating longer distances between speed limit changes.
The proposal comes after consultation with the Iowa State Patrol, which recommended spreading out the speed transitions to improve safety and consistency for motorists.
However, Iowa DOT District 3 Transportation Planner Sarah Tracy emphasized that no decisions have been made.
Any potential changes would still need to go through the department’s review process and would likely be months away from becoming official.
Intersection Safety Also Under Review
The Iowa DOT is also evaluating possible changes to intersections along the corridor, particularly at County Road C-80 and County Road C-70.
According to DOT officials, there have been 29 crashes at the intersection of C-80 and Highway 75 during the past decade. Most recently, the intersection was the site of the bus crash involving the Remsen St. Mary’s girls basketball team that sent nine people to the hospital.
One potential option being considered would redirect left turns on Highway 75 to U-turn intersections, a design intended to reduce conflict points and improve safety.
Public Open House Scheduled
The Iowa DOT will host a public open house to discuss the proposed intersection changes along Highway 75 on Monday, June 29.
The open house is scheduled from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Iowa DOT District 3 Office, located at 6409 Gordon Drive in Sioux City.
The meeting is open to the public, and residents are encouraged to attend to learn more about the proposals and provide feedback.
