Future 435 Project Advances at State Level with Signature from Governor Reynolds
GREATER DES MOINES, IA (May 28, 2025) – A bill to designate Highways 5 and 65 as part of the federal Interstate system has been signed into law by Governor Kim Reynolds. HF 1025 passed the Iowa House by a vote of 90-2 and the Iowa Senate unanimously, 50-0. The bill was signed into law by Governor Reynolds on May 27.
This designation makes the corridor even more competitive for additional economic development opportunities as companies will have direct access to a federal Interstate, a key component for moving and shipping goods.
“The Greater Des Moines Partnership has been an advocate for this designation for over 20 years and will continue to work with key stakeholders, including the Federal government, to move this long-standing priority forward to complete the designation,” said Tiffany Tauscheck, President & CEO of the Greater Des Moines Partnership. “This pro-growth strategy will help our region stand out to companies considering a relocation or expansion project.”
“We want to express our thanks to the legislature and the Governor for their leadership on this important issue," said Mark Holm, Polk County Supervisor and MPO Chair. "We have invested a lot of time trying to find a solution that balances the needs of the existing users while unlocking the full potential for economic development along the corridor. We look forward to working through the next steps in the process along with all the stakeholders.”
“The designation of Highway 5/65 as an interstate marks a significant milestone for the region, enhancing connectivity and economic opportunities in the food and agriculture industry,” said Billi Hunt, Executive Director of America’s Cultivation Corridor. “America’s Cultivation Corridor is excited about the progress and looks forward to future growth of the region.”
Next steps on this project will involve the Federal Government waiving a weight exemption for the road, and local leaders are already working closely with Iowa’s Congressional Delegation on these efforts.
About the Greater Des Moines Partnership
The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization that serves 12 counties in Greater Des Moines (DSM), Iowa: Adair, Clarke, Dallas, Guthrie, Jasper, Madison, Mahaska, Marion, Marshall, Polk, Poweshiek and Warren. Together with more than 400 Investors and an Affiliate Chamber of Commerce network of more than 6,700 Regional Business Members, The Partnership drives economic growth and talent development to advance quality of life in DSM with one voice, one mission and as one region. Through innovation, strategic planning and global collaboration, The Partnership grows opportunity, helps create jobs and promotes DSM as the best place to build a business, a career and a future. Learn more at DSMpartnership.com.