Gay Lea Wilson Underpass
Project Description:
The Highway 65 Underpass is an essential project for the City of Bondurant and has been identified as a priority in the City’s adopted capital improvement plan. The City worked for some time to secure funding, which is now in place to construct an underpass that will provide a safe way for bicyclists and pedestrians to traverse highway 65, and eventually connect the Gay Lea Wilson Trail in Bondurant and Altoona. Below is a picture showing the approximate location of the underpass. The project is currently in design and the City anticipates going to bid in Fall of 2021.
Project Status:
October 2019 - Submitted paperwork for final funding of underpass. Waiting for IDOT to authorize the project.
December 30, 2020 - Approvals secured from the Department of Transportation. The funding Agreement is scheduled for January 19, 2021 council meeting. Designing is underway. Construction to begin in Fall 2021.
April 20, 2021 - The underpass project is in full design work and we hope to be ready for bid on the project this fall. This project will provide safe access for pedestrians and bicyclists to go under Highway 65 in the area of Oleson Drive, just north of Grant Street. This project is made possible by generous donations from Prairie Meadows, TAP grants, Safe Routes to School, USTEP funding, and city funds, partially supported by Local Option Sales and Services Tax. It is the combination of city, state, and Prairie Meadows funding (Legacy Grant) that makes this $2.7 million project possible. We are excited to improve safety for the users and advance the trail connection. Thank you to all of those involved in helping to fund this project!
October 2021 - This project is in the final design and will go to bid after this fall.
February 11, 2022 - Design for the Highway 65 Underpass (located roughly in the area of Oleson Drive) has been finalized and submitted to the State Department of Transportation. The project will go to bid shortly and bids will be due in April for spring construction. The project will provide a safe way for bicyclists and pedestrians to traverse highway 65, and eventually connect the Gay Lea Wilson Trail between Bondurant and Altoona. Construction over the summer will have an impact on traffic in the area. Please watch for updates! The project is slated for completion by the end of the calendar year.
September 25, 2023 - Join us in commemorating the unveiling of the Bondurant Gay Lea Wilson Underpass, featuring heartfelt words from our esteemed partners and dedicated supporters. This underpass marks a monumental addition to our regional trail, offering pedestrians a secure pathway into the charming Bondurant community. In the future, it will connect to adjacent communities that journey through Eastern Polk County.
- Grand Opening Date: Monday, September 25, 2023
- Event Time: 5:15 PM
- Location: 1499 Grant Street South; Bondurant, Iowa 50035