SPENCER, Iowa — Sept. 9, 2026 — Crews have shifted traffic on U.S. 71 near U.S. 18 on the north side of Spencer into the right lane for both north- and southbound traffic, closing the left lanes of the four-lane divided highway. This traffic pattern will remain in place from Clay County Road M-44 to Clay County Road B-17 until Thursday, Oct. 22, according to the Iowa Department of Transportation’s District 3 Office.
A 12-foot lane-width restriction is in place in each lane.
Crews need to finish the median crossovers before winter halts construction.
The next phase of the project will include detour route paving on Fourth Avenue West.
This detour route was selected to reduce the impacts of construction to traffic in Spencer and to prevent a long detour route.
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.
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Iowa Department of Transportation
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