About the project
The Iowa DOT, in coordination with the city of Arnold’s Park and Okoboji, will replace the pavement on U.S. 71 from Okoboji Grove Road in Arnolds Park through Okoboji View Avenue in Okoboji.
The project will include the replacement of the
barrier rail that separates motorists from pedestrians
on the causeway.
Cedar Valley Corp. of Waterloo was awarded the $19,616,385.33 contract.
Traffic impacts
U.S. 71 through traffic will be detoured to Iowa
86 and Iowa 9.
One lane in each direction will be
maintained most times on U.S. 71 in Arnolds Park
and Okoboji.
On September 18, U.S. 71 will close between Ackley St. in Arnolds Park to Lake Shore/Gordon Dr. in Okoboji to accommodate pavement reconstruction across the causeway. Emergency services traffic will be maintained.
Most intersection construction will be half at a time,
to avoid closure of the entire intersection.
All reconstruction will occur during the spring and
fall seasons of 2023 and 2024 to minimize disruption
during the area’s peak activity and tourism season.
Project Features
- Sidewalks throughout the project area will be improved with enhanced intersections compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act..
- The area's overall look will be enhanced by embellishments incorporated in the causeway barrier rail and the space between the road and the barrier rail.
- New traffic signals will be added at Lake Street and Linden Street in Arnolds Park.
- The three-lane section of U.S. 71 will be extended south of Lake Street.