Iowa County supervisors discuss interstate closure plans, gates and communications during winter storms

Iowa County supervisors spent part of their meeting discussing winter-storm interstate closure plans, whether gates should be placed on county roads and how the county will coordinate with state agencies when closures occur.

The discussion centered on how the Iowa Department of Transportation and state patrol plan to close interstates at designated locations during severe storms so travelers can be off the highway and sheltered in nearby towns and facilities. Supervisors said those closure points typically include hotels, restaurants and parking areas identified by the state.

Supervisors expressed concern about an online post showing a vendor for gates that prompted questions about placing gates on county roads. Several supervisors said county roads should not be gated because local agricultural traffic, including farm equipment and emergency-response access, would be impeded. One supervisor said closing county roads could create problems for farmers who must move tractors and livestock and for residents who rely on local roads for essential travel.

Board members emphasized the need for clear communication with the DOT and state patrol. A supervisor who attended a state meeting reported that the DOT is “open to communications,” and that counties can call the state patrol for assistance at specific locations during closures. Supervisors asked that information be passed to the board ahead of any closures so the county can prepare.

The board did not adopt any new rules or formal policies on road closures or gating during this meeting. Supervisors said they would monitor how the first use of the interstate-closure plan proceeds, learn from the county’s and region’s experience during last year’s big snowstorm and make adjustments if necessary. Staff were asked to relay state-provided closure plans and vendor information to supervisors when available.