SPENCER, Iowa — Sept. 10, 2026 — Crews will reopen U.S. 71 near U.S. 18 on the north side of Spencer to its normal four-lane pattern, with two lanes of traffic in each direction, during the Clay County Fair timeframe according to the Iowa Department of Transportation’s District 3 Office.
Drivers should watch for barrels along the shoulders of the roadway. They protect culvert pipes that will be installed for the median crossover project associated with the roundabout construction scheduled for 2027 at the U.S. 71/U.S. 18 north junction, known locally as the “North Y”.
The Iowa DOT decided to pause the crossover project until after the Clay County Fair, which runs from Sept. 12-20, in Spencer, to keep traffic moving safely during the event. State road projects in the Spencer area won’t resume until Monday, Sept. 21, weather permitting. The only construction expected on state and federal highways during the fair would be for emergencies.
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.
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For more information, contact Sarah Tracy, District 3 transportation planner, at 712-274-5831 or [email protected].