Emergency Closures of the Mile Long Bridge on Iowa 415 over Saylorville Lake near Polk City May Occur on Wednesday, March 19
AMES, Iowa – March 19, 2025 – If you drive over the Mile Long Bridge on Iowa 415 over Saylorville Lake near Polk City you should be prepared for emergency closures of the bridge on the afternoon of Wednesday, March 19 during the afternoon commute, due to high winds. Crews may need close the bridge unexpectedly for the safety of the traveling public, according to the Iowa Department of Transportation’s District 1 Office.
If you drive a high-profile vehicle, you are encouraged to find alternative routes during this high-wind event. Closure information will be posted on the Iowa DOT’s 511ia.org travel information system. Digital message boards will also be placed at both ends of the bridge to warn you of potential closures.
During high-wind events you are reminded to follow these safety tips:
- Be aware of the weather and the potential for changing conditions and adjust your travel to avoid inclement weather if possible.
- Avoid bridges or other locations that are higher up that could put your vehicle in a position to experience high wind gusts more readily.
- Keep your distance from other vehicles, especially high-profile vehicles, because the wind could suddenly blow them over or into your lane.
- Keep your hands firmly on the wheel and expect the unexpected.
- Avoid distractions and concentrate of the task of driving.
- Slow down.
The latest traveler information is available anytime through our 511 system. Visit 511ia.org; call 511 (within Iowa) or 800-288-1047 (nationwide); stay connected with 511 on Facebook or X (find links at https://iowadot.gov/511/511-social-media-sites); or download the free app to your mobile device.
It’s easy to subscribe to Your 511 and sign up to receive email/text alerts. Visit https://new.511ia.org/#login to sign up. For instructions and help with this feature, visit https://www.511ia.org/help/section/how-to-create-and-manage-a-511-account.html.
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For general information about this closure, please contact Bob Ellis, District 1 maintenance manager, at 515-239-1634 or [email protected].