Head to Iowa City early and prepare to stay a little later to avoid the worst traffic jams. Make sure your cellphone is charged up and that you've gone to the bathroom! Here's a news release from the Iowa Department of Transportation:
The University of Iowa and the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) would like drivers to be aware of construction activities occurring on routes traditionally used by fans. Hawkeye fans and visitors should expect delays and be prepared to take alternate routes. To avoid impacts following the game, drivers may consider extending their time in the Iowa City area to avoid the post-game rush. For those wanting to travel west on I-80 and north on U.S. 218/I-380 after the game, drivers should be prepared for delays of 30 minutes or longer.
In addition, ramp closures within the I-80/I-380 System Interchange continue to impact travel to and from the stadium. The DOT, in partnership with local and state law enforcement and University of Iowa Athletics, has provided alternate route recommendations for fans:
Pre-Game Alternate Routes:
Drivers on their way to Kinnick Stadium should be aware of the I-80 westbound to U.S. 218 southbound ramp closure. To avoid pre-game impacts, drivers may want to consider leaving for the stadium earlier in the day. Drivers will be directed to the following alternate routes:
·Take Exit 240 at IA 965/Coral Ridge Ave and travel along IA 965, to James Street, to Camp Cardinal Boulevard.
·Take Exit 237 at Ireland Ave, circle back onto I-80 eastbound, and take the I-80 eastbound to U.S. 218 southbound ramp.
Post-Game Alternate Routes
Drivers leaving Kinnick Stadium need to be aware of the U.S. 218 northbound to I-80 westbound ramp closure, as well as the I-80 westbound to U.S. 218 southbound ramp closure. Drivers will be directed to the following alternate routes:
For the U.S. 218 Northbound to I-80 Westbound Loop Closure
·Take U.S. 218/I-380 northbound, and circle back south at Exit 2 (Forevergreen Road) to rejoin I-80 West.
·Use Camp Cardinal Blvd to James St. to IA 965/Coral Ridge Ave, and meet I-80 westbound at Exit 240.
·Use Camp Cardinal Blvd to James St. to Coral Ridge Ave to U.S. 6/2nd St. and travel west to Ireland Avenue to meet I-80 westbound at Exit 237.
For the I-80 Westbound to U.S. 218 Southbound Loop Closure
·Follow I-80 westbound to Exit 237 to loop back to I-80 east, and take the I-80 eastbound to U.S. 218 southbound ramp.
“Both pre-game and post-game traffic will be significantly impacted due to the I-80/I-380 interchange reconstruction. With multiple ramps permanently closed, we suggest fans plan for one of the alternate routes and to allow for additional time and patience when going to and leaving the stadium. The Iowa DOT continues to work collaboratively with Iowa Athletics, the Iowa State Patrol and the cities of Coralville and Iowa City to plan the best and safest available alternate routes.”
– Iowa DOT Newman Abuissa, District 6 Transportation Systems Management & Operations (TSMO) Engineer
Plan ahead and check WAZE or 511ia.org for real time traffic information including closures and other impacts. Watch for signs directing drivers to alternate routes and be aware of law enforcement directing traffic at the intersections near the stadium. Always avoid distractions and adjust your speed and following distance when traveling through work zones. If you see emergency or road assistance vehicles, don’t forget to move over and slow down – it’s the law.