Milford, IA (Northwestiowanow.com) — Highway 71 through Milford will remain 4 lanes. After over a year of discussion it came down to a split 3 to 2 votes by the city council Monday night. Mayor Steve Anderson says the process allowed everyone a chance to voice their opinion at public meetings and an online survey.

Councilmembers Kyle Mohni and Dave Worshek voted for the change, Chris Hinshaw, Shane Hoffman, and Doug Frederick voted to leave things the same. Anderson says Milford will now focus on safety recommendations along the highway – also called “Okoboji Avenue”.

Highway 71 through Milford is scheduled to be rebuilt in 2030 so the DOT had requested the city decide now whether it would be rebuilt as a three-lane highway or four.