Resolution authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to execute Iowa Department of Transportation Agreement No. 2023-16-036 in connection with the South Expressway Reconstruction Phase 1.  Project #PW22-17

The South Expressway is a major arterial roadway that serves as one of the main entrances to the downtown area of Council Bluffs from I-29/I-80.  The South Expressway was previously a state highway (formerly Iowa 192). Traffic volumes are approaching 20,000 vehicles per day.  The South Expressway is currently a rural four lane divided roadway with a depressed median. 

The updated design for the reconstruction will utilize an urban typical section. The project will include new roadway pavement, drainage improvements, street lighting, and a concrete trail on the east side of the South Expressway from just north of the I-29/I-80 ramps to 23rd Avenue.

This is the first of at least two phases planned to reconstruct the South Expressway.  Phase 1 includes the area immediately north of the I-29/I-80 interchange, and continues north to just south of 19th Avenue.

The project will require the relocation of approximately 1,800 lineal feet of fiber optic cable and conduit.  The fiber is shared by the Iowa DOT, City of Council Bluffs, and Iowa Communications network.  Costs for the relocation will be split with the Iowa DOT paying 50%, City of Council Bluffs 25% and Iowa Communications Network 25%.  The cost of the relocation is estimated to be $150,000.

The relocation will be completed as part of the South Expressway project. The City portion will be funded with Sales Tax Funds.

The project is scheduled for a December 2022 letting.  

Approval of this resolution to enter into the DOT cost sharing agreement to relocate fiber optic cable and conduit.