Highway 18 Bridge Just East of Ionia Turnoff Down to One Lane Starting Monday (07.28)

Travel between Charles City and New Hampton is expected to be disrupted starting next week.

The Iowa DOT says work will begin Monday (07.28) on the U.S. Highway 18 bridge over the Wapsipinicon River, just east of Chickasaw County Road V-14 (the Ionia turnoff). Crews will be working on a bridge deck overlay, which will require closing one of the lanes on the bridge. 

The Iowa DOT says the project will be completed in two stages, during which, one lane on the bridge will be open for traffic at all times. Motorists will be directed to travel in the open lane with temporary traffic signals. There will be a 15-foot lane restriction in the open lane.

The bridge work is expected to be completed by late October, weather permitting.

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.