“Kudos,” District 3 Transportation Planner Sarah Tracy said when describing contractors who finished their important, but inconvenient work on Highway 9 about a month ahead of schedule. Crews began the 10.4 mile, $10.55 million Highway 9 cement concrete overlay project the week of July 21 in Dickinson County. The Iowa DOT plans a $2 million Highway 9 bridge replacement over the West Fork of the Little Sioux River during the 2027 construction season. Construction crews will replace culverts on Highway 9 in Lyon County —near county road K60 — in 2027 as well. As in all work zones, drivers should stay alert, allow ample space between vehicles, and wear seat belts.