MASON CITY, Iowa – Aug. 27, 2025 – The ongoing construction work on Interstate 35 in the Clear Lake area between Exit 193 and Exit 194 will enter the final stage of work on Tuesday, Sept. 2, weather permitting, according to the Iowa Department of Transportation’s Mason City construction office.  

 This next phase requires that the entrance ramp to southbound I-35 at U.S. 18 (exit 194) be closed. With this closure, you will need to be aware of a detour that will be set up for those wanting to access southbound I-35 from U.S. 18. 

The Iowa DOT encourages everyone to follow the marked detour while the ramp is closed. 

We anticipate this ramp closure and detour to be in place until the end of October or early November.  

I35 SB ramp closure Exit 194 Clear Lake.

I35 SB ramp closure Exit 194 Clear Lake.

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 general information about this project, contact Jason Ruter, Iowa DOT Mason City construction office, at 641-430-2367 or jason.ruter@iowadot.us.