NW Johnston Drive & Merle Hay Road

This project involves the reconfiguration and reconstruction of Merle Hay Road and NW Johnston Drive intersection from the north edge of Beaver Creek Bridge north to approximately NW 55th Avenue. This project is part of the city’s efforts to improve roadway safety, traffic flow, improve the deteriorating roadway surface and improve overall drainage in the immediate vicinity of the project.  A new loop road west of Merle Hay Road will be constructed with the project.

The project will consist of PCC Pavement, ACC Asphalt overlay, sidewalk and shared-use path, water-main improvements, storm sewer, sub-drains, sanitary sewer, sanitary manholes, storm sewer manholes and intakes, pavement markings, and surface restoration.

Road Project Update (Updated: 12/12/22)

The project continues progressing at the intersection of Johnston Drive and Merle Hay Road as the weather allows. Below are a few updates on the project.

  • The storm sewer is complete.
  • The water main is complete.
  • The Merle Hay Rd. overlay is complete.
  • Johnston Loop Rd. is complete.
  • Johnston Drive to the East is 90% complete.
  • Traffic signals will continue to be installed and completed this year.
  • Fiber relocation is complete.
  • MidAmerican will continue efforts to relocate power poles for trail installation.  
  • Grading and surface stabilization is wrapping up for the winter.
  • The sidewalk/trail is 80% complete.

The contractor will return in the spring to complete trail and surface restoration.

Traffic is anticipated to be interrupted for the remainder of the construction season, but when the improvements are complete, it will ensure the safety of motorists as the Gateway District expands.

Trail Project Update (Updated: 11/9/22)

The reopening of the trail along Beaver Creek, behind Ignit Sports & Fitness, is delayed due to soil conditions, weather and testing of the two sections of the water main along. The trail is expected to reopen at the end of November.

Contractors are currently finishing up testing and getting the new sections hooked up to the main. The twin 36-inch culverts will begin after the hookups are complete. Crews have installed closure ahead signs to give trail users advance warning regarding the  far east closure.

View the business access loop road map here (PDF).

View the detour map here (PDF).

Southbound lane closure beginning May 16 at 5 a.m.

Southbound Lane Closure
Johnston Drive_Merle Hay Road reconstruction_1800_1200

Public Communication

The construction map of the project can be viewed here (PDF).
To view a copy of the mailed construction notice letter, click here (PDF).
To view a copy of the presentation from the public meeting held on Thursday, March 24, click here (PDF).

Project start date

May 2022

Expected project completion date 

May 31, 2023

Estimate cost 

$6,516,034.00

Contractor

Corell Contractor, Inc.

Engineer

Foth Infrastructure & Environment, LLC
Nathan Whipple
(515) 251-2598
Email Nathan Whipple

City staff contact

Matt Greiner, Public Works Director
(515) 278-0822
Email Matt Greiner