Iowa DOT, DPS Plan to Reopen I-35 Early Monday Afternoon (Dec. 29)

AMES, Iowa — The Iowa Department of Transportation and Iowa Department of Public Safety say they plan to reopen Interstate 35 early Monday afternoon, December 29, as conditions improve following the weekend winter storm.

I-35 was closed December 28 from Ames to Clear Lake, later expanding the closure to the Minnesota state line, after roads became impassable due to dangerous winter conditions and near-zero visibility caused by blowing snow.

Officials say state and local crews will continue working through Monday morning to clear snow and ice and remove disabled vehicles from travel lanes to make sure the interstate is safe for drivers before reopening.

DOT and DPS also continue to discourage travelers from taking alternate routes until later in the day, warning many detours remain hazardous and may have limited access to shelter and traveler services. Iowa officials are coordinating with Minnesota authorities, who also closed segments of I-35 due to the storm.

Before traveling, drivers are encouraged to check Iowa 511 for the latest road conditions at 511ia.org, by dialing 511 (in Iowa) or 800-288-1047 (nationwide), following Iowa 511 on Facebook or X, or using the free Iowa 511 mobile app.