Several road projects moving into next phase around north-central Iowa

MASON CITY — Several road construction projects are moving into their next phase around the area this week. One of the major changes involves the State Highway 122 reconstruction project between South Pierce and South Monroe Avenues in Mason City with the closure of the intersection at Pierce to all turning traffic starting on Wednesday.

The Iowa Department of Transportation’s Pete Hjelmstad says traffic will be detoured toward MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center. “That means if you are going east and you want to get to the hospital, you will use Winnebago Way. That will be signed, and you will be able to get to the hospital that way.”

Westbound traffic will still be able to access the hospital from Crescent Drive. 

== Starting today, the entrance ramp to southbound Interstate 35 at US Highway 18 or Exit 194 in Clear Lake will be closed. With the closure, motorists will need to be aware of a detour that will be set up for those wanting to access southbound Interstate 35 from US 18. 

== The second stage of construction work on State Highway 9 in Osage is starting today. Crews are starting west of Kirkwood Avenue and working east to the west side of the entrance to Street Chiropractic. Through traffic will be following a marked detour route using Mitchell County Road T-26 and US Highway 218.