Story County Conservation (SCC) asks Heart of Iowa Nature Trail (HOINT) users be patient and construction-aware as the first of numerous construction projects begin on the multi-use trail across southern Story County for the season.
The section of the HOINT between 560th Ave and 570th Ave east of Huxley, (near its crossing under I-35) is scheduled to close beginning on Monday, March 11, for the rerouting of a water main running under the trail, as the Iowa DOT begins its colossal project of widening Interstate 35 from four to six lanes between Ames and Ankeny.
As preliminary work for the interstate widening is underway, this initial short-term closure is of an unknown duration, but may run into a long-term closure expected to run the entire 2024 recreation season.
Within this project, the two existing interstate bridges crossing above the quiet HOINT below are slated to be removed. A new tunnel will be built, over which the new six interstate lanes will cross. If construction goes smoothly, we are hopeful the tunnel project will be completed in time for the trail to reopen by the beginning of the 2025 recreation season.
Please note this is an Iowa DOT project and SCC is not responsible for timeliness.
Trail users will also see additional upcoming closures to the HOINT this year, as SCC works to pave the remaining 12 miles between the South Skunk River Bridge and Collins. Information about future closures will be released as applicable.
For information on closures: Please visit www.storycountyiowa.gov/theheart or contact the Story County Conservation Center at 515.232.2516.
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