Property Acquisition

As part of the proposed improvements, additional right-of-way may be required. The following paragraphs provide information regarding the right-of-way process followed by the Iowa Department of Transportation (Iowa DOT). Please keep in mind that specific right-of-way needs have not been identified at this time.

Iowa DOT policy provides for appraisal of property and/or property rights needed for each project. Professional techniques and methods are used to determine “just compensation” in accordance with federal and state constitutions, laws and regulations. Appraisals are prepared to assure fair treatment for both the property owner and the public.

After completing the appraisal, a right-of-way agent contacts each owner to explain the plans and appraisals and negotiate the contract for the required right-of-way. If an agreement cannot be reached through negotiations, the property may be acquired by the laws of eminent domain.

For more information please visit the Iowa DOT's Office of Right-of-Way Web site.

Relocation Assistance

The State of Iowa's acquisition and relocation program is conducted in accordance with the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970 (Public Law 91-646), as amended. Relocation resources are provided to all residential and business relocatees, without discrimination.

If you are required to move as a result of a highway construction project, whether an owner or a tenant, you are eligible for relocation assistance advisory services. You may be eligible for moving assistance, supplemental replacement housing payments and reimbursement for certain expenses incurred in purchasing replacement housing.

It is the intent of the State of Iowa to ensure that displaced individuals receive fair and equitable treatment and do not suffer disproportionately as a result of highway improvements designed for the public as a whole. Any person, family, business or farm displaced by a highway project shall be offered relocation assistance services for locating suitable replacement property.

Relocation payments and advisory assistance are offered in addition to the State's purchase of your property. Questions or problems concerning relocation assistance should be directed to:

Office of Right-of-Way
Relocation Assistance Section
Iowa Department of Transportation
800 Lincoln Way
Ames, Iowa 50010
Phone: 515-239-1216

Corridor Preservation Zone

The Iowa Department of Transportation implemented a Corridor Preservation Zone (CPZ) for the Council Bluffs Interstate System (CBIS) improvements project on September 20, 2005.

What does this mean?

• The CPZ is an area where future transportation improvements may occur which would require the acquisition of right-of-way (ROW). Designation of the CPZ allows the Iowa DOT to review building permits, subdivision plats and proposed zoning changes before they are approved by local officials.
  
• If the building permits, subdivision plats or zoning changes are not compatible with the Iowa DOT’s proposed improvements, the Iowa DOT may initiate the acquisition process for the said ROW.
  
• The CPZ also protects private property owners by providing them with information regarding future transportation improvements that may affect their property.

View the Corridor Preservation Zone map for the CBIS improvements project. If you have questions or concerns regarding the CPZ, please contact John Carns of the Iowa DOT.