September 21, 2007: This LGS on US 63 at the east end of IA 175 is among those slated to be replaced, using a slightly different font.
Among the projects at the DOT’s April contract letting is a sign project centered on Tama County. Judging by the long list, all the shields and mileage signs will be replaced on US 63 from New Sharon to Hudson, IA 175 from the Hardin/Grundy line to its east end, and all of IA 8, 85, 96, and 146. It’s classified under “statewide” because while the project is in one contiguous area, it jumps DOT districts.
The replacement project maybe, eventually, will lead to new pictures, since there is a visible if slight difference in the kerning and style of letters. It’s probably not a recognizable change to drivers unless they’re paying attention to it (like I do).
The signs will probably be replaced sometime this summer.
Also out for letting this spring was the new I-74 bridge across the Mississippi River. It’s getting closer!