If you work, drive, or park in downtown Iowa City, be aware of a major street closure that is expected to last until at least late summer.

Weather permitting, the city of Iowa City is scheduled to begin the Dubuque Street Reconstruction Project on Monday, March 11.

Dubuque Street, between Iowa Avenue and Washington Street, as well as the alley between Dubuque Street and Linn Street will be closed to vehicles for the duration of the project. However, pedestrian access to businesses will be maintained.

The project will be completed in two phases, according to the city. The first phase, which will continue through mid-summer, will include work on Dubuque Street. The second phase will include work on the sidewalk along Dubuque Street, as well as the alley between Dubuque Street and Linn Street.

The project is anticipated to be completed by late summer or early fall 2024. Additional information on the project, including frequently asked questions, can be found here.

According to the city, the project includes the following:

• Reconstruction of Dubuque Street between Iowa Avenue and Washington Street, and the reconstruction of alley between Dubuque Street and Linn Street.
• Major infrastructure upgrades including a new water main; new sanitary sewer and storm sewer system; street reconstruction; and festive lighting.
• Replacement of sidewalk and curb ramps throughout the entire project area to provide ADA accessibility for pedestrians.
• New streetscape features, such as planters, limestone blocks, bicycle racks, and a wayfinding kiosk.

The project is necessary to replace infrastructure that is in poor condition, including water main and sanitary sewer clay pipe from the early 1900s, early 1980s pavement and storm sewer, and outdated street lighting, the city says.