I35 South of Des Moines

[rte66man]

Coming home from vacation, I noticed that the reconstruction of I35 south from Des Moines is moving the southbound roadway over 40-50 feet.  Why do that?  Larger median? Why not use a cable barrier.

[Revive 755]

My theory:  Moving the SB roadway over allows for the new roadway to be built with less disruptions to the existing roadway.

Although it may not be as costly as acquiring ROW, a cable barrier does eventually grow a  decent maintenance cost.

[rte66man]

My theory:  Moving the SB roadway over allows for the new roadway to be built with less disruptions to the existing roadway.

Although it may not be as costly as acquiring ROW, a cable barrier does eventually grow a  decent maintenance cost.

I thought the same thing.  However, the cost involved.......  New overpasses, ramps, etc, must be huge.