Okoboji, IA (KICD) — The Iowa DOT says Cedar Valley Contracting completed even more work than expected during the first phase of the highway 71 construction project through the Iowa Lakes.

Dakin Schultz says good weather and hard work by employees got an additional lane between Ackely Street in Arnolds Park and Lake Shore in Okoboji; plus additional paving between Okoboji Grove Road and Benit Drive in Arnolds Park puts the project is an excellent position to get Stage 2 done in the fall.

Stage 2 is scheduled to begin September 5th. It includes paving over the bridge; and the west half of Dam Road, Broadway Street, and Linden Drive in Arnolds park; and Lake Shore Drive to Sanborn Avenue in Okoboji.

The causeway is scheduled to be closed for four weeks beginning September 19th.

Phases 3 and 4 are scheduled for next spring and fall with any remaining work to be finished in the spring of 2025 if necessary.