Council Bluffs Interstate System Improvements

Frequently Asked Questions

This page contains a list of frequently asked questions about this project. As questions are received, they will be reviewed and answered on an individual basis. If a question is asked multiple times or is one that others would benefit from having the answer, it will be posted here. Questions regarding issues that are unique to a property will be answered individually and will not be made public. Click on a topic below to see the frequently asked questions. Click on a question to see the answer.

Corridor Preservation Zone

Q: What is a Corridor Preservation Zone (CPZ)?

A: The Corridor Preservation Zone (CPZ) is an area where future transportation improvements may occur which would require the acquisition of right-of-way (ROW). Designation of the CPZ allows Iowa DOT to review building permits, subdivision plats and proposed zoning changes to determine if they are compatible with future roadway improvements.

Q: Does a CPZ prohibit development?

A: The Corridor Preservation Zone (CPZ) does not prohibit development. If the proposed development, subdivision plat or zoning change is not compatible with Iowa DOT's proposed improvements, the Iowa DOT may begin the process to acquire the needed right-of-way.

Q: Can property within the CPZ be condemned?

A: If it is determined that early acquisition of private property is needed within the corridor Preservation Zone, the Iowa DOT will follow normal right-of-way procedures to purchase the property. If it becomes necessary, the Iowa DOT has the ability to condemn property.

Q: What steps are necessary when developing property in the CPZ?

A: For a property within the Corridor Preservation Zone (CPZ) the Iowa DOT will be added to the City's review process for permits. The Iowa DOT will evaluate the potential for impacts to the development by the proposed highway improvements. If there are impacts to the development, the Iowa DOT will contact the owner or developer and try to find a solution that will work for both the developer and the proposed highway plans. If a solution cannot be found, the Iowa DOT may pursue acquisition of all or part of the property being developed.


Property Acquisition

Q: When will right-of-way needs be determined?

A: The current project schedule is to have this information available in late summer 2007 for Segments 2 and 3. Impacts to individual properties will also be known at this time. If you have a question about a specific property, please contact John Carns, of the Iowa DOT.

Q: When will right-of-way be purchased?

A: The acquisition of right-of-way typically begins one to two years before construction.

Q: How does the right-of-way process work?

A: For more information on the right-of-way process, please visit the Iowa DOT's Office of Right-of-Way Web site. From there you can download a brochure entitled "Highways and Your Land." www.dot.state.ia.us/rightofway/highwaya.htm


Schedule

Q: When will construction begin?

A: The CBIS improvements project will be constructed in segments. Construction on Segment 1 is expected to begin in 2008. Construction on Segments 2 and 3 is expected to begin in 2012.


Other

Q: How can I get my access concerns addressed?

A: For specific access concerns, please contact John Carns, of the Iowa DOT.

Q: When will detailed layouts be presented?

A: Images of the preliminary layouts are available on this Web site for each of the five segments. As design progresses additional public meetings will be held to present details of the proposed improvements.

Q: How will Iowa DOT mitigate noise impacts to my property?

A: Iowa DOT noise abatement (reduction) policies would be applied to determine the extent of noise impacts and the feasibility and reasonableness of noise barriers. Final construction of any noise barriers will depend on public input and final design considerations.

Q: Where will the dirt that is needed to build the project come from?

A: Some of the required material will be taken from within the project limits, but some will have to be trucked in from other locations. These "borrow sites" will be determined during preliminary design.

Q: How are pedestrians and bicycles being accommodated to cross the interstate?

A: The existing trails system currently crosses the interstate seven times, all under interstate bridges. A study is being reviewed to determine the best option for pedestrian accommodation at the 24th Street interchange.