AMES, Iowa – Sept. 19, 2025 - The Iowa Department of Transportation values public involvement and encourages feedback on projects. To better connect with citizens, simplify the process of online engagement, and make data-driven decisions, the Iowa DOT has upgraded its web-based feedback portal with the introduction of PublicInput.com, a new public engagement platform.
The primary purpose of the change is to offer Iowans a comprehensive and more user-friendly hub to share feedback with the Iowa DOT on projects that impact their travels, as well as lower barriers to participation by creating a more accessible community engagement experience.
This refresh offers an improved gateway that allows staff to receive and respond to both email input, as well as voicemail comments if a member of the public does not have internet service. Previously, online users were accessing the feedback portal through a Bitly.com link, but will begin to see “publicinput.com” as the valid URL to access the new domain and conduct email exchanges.
The Iowa DOT is committed to public involvement opportunities, including online comments, online videos, Open Houses, and Public Hearings, which are held at different stages of project development. Public involvement events may be held to discuss a detour, a road closure, or right-of-way needs. To learn more about all of the ways to engage with the Iowa DOT about projects in your area, visit the Public Involvement website.
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 launch contact Public Involvement Manager, Trisha Miller at trisha.miller@iowadot.us.