COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – March 27, 2019 – The westbound Interstate 80/northbound I-29 segment of the dual, divided freeway in Council Bluffs is now open to traffic. This design physically separates through traffic on I-80 from local traffic on I-29 destined for Council Bluffs. Drivers wanting to travel within Council Bluffs will choose local lanes to access exits.

(For more information on how to use the new freeway, watch the video posted at http://www.councilbluffsinterstate.iowadot.gov/projects/dual-divided-freeway/.)

The Iowa DOT chose a dual, divided freeway design because it offers greater flexibility to travelers, reduces congestion and will improve safety and efficiency. For example, it allows traffic to keep moving in both directions, even if lanes are closed because of a crash. This design allows through traffic to utilize both express and local lanes, offering more lanes overall.

On the previous interstate configuration, through traffic merged with local traffic at on- and off-ramps creating congestion, especially during peak traffic hours. The dual, divided freeway separates through traffic from local traffic, eliminating delay and reducing conflict. The dual, divided freeway will also reduce the number of crashes caused by merging traffic between interchanges.

Drivers should note that westbound I-80 express traffic destined for northbound I-29 (exit 1) will not be able to access the exit until the permanent pavement is constructed in approximately three months. In the meantime, drivers should use northbound I-29/westbound I-80 local lanes. If drivers accidentally choose the express lanes and need to get back to a Council Bluffs exit, drivers can exit at 13th Street in Omaha and turn around.

The Iowa DOT encourages motorists to follow signs and use caution while becoming accustomed to the traffic shift.