SPENCER, IA (Northwestiowanow) — Traffic disruptions near Spencer’s North Y intersection will be paused during the Clay County Fair.

The Iowa DOT announced Thursday that U.S. Highway 71 near the U.S. 18 north junction on the north side of Spencer will return to its normal four-lane traffic pattern throughout the fair. Two lanes of traffic will be open in each direction to help accommodate increased traffic volumes during the event.

The area previously had road closures while crews worked on a median crossover project associated with a roundabout planned for construction at the North Y intersection in 2027.

According to the Iowa DOT, state transportation projects in the Spencer area will remain on hold until Monday, September 21, weather permitting. The only work expected on state and federal highways during the fair would be emergency-related repairs if needed.

Motorists may still notice construction barrels along the roadway shoulders, which are protecting culvert pipes scheduled for installation as part of the ongoing project.

Travelers can monitor current road conditions and traffic information through Iowa’s 511 system.