Ask Axios: Will Ashworth Road get an I-80 exit?

• The Iowa DOT's current I-80 widening project between Grand Prairie Parkway and Jordan Creek Parkway does not include a new Ashworth Road exit.

Yes, but: West Des Moines is considering the idea.

• The Des Moines Area Metropolitan Planning Organization's FY 2026-29 plan lists a $1.25 million interchange justification report for Ashworth Road and I-80 in fiscal year 2029.
• That report would be an early required step before a new interstate interchange could move forward, but it's not a guarantee that one will be built.

State of play: The timing is uncertain, West Des Moines spokesperson Janet Wilwerding tells Axios.

• The city also cannot proceed with the interchange justification report until Ashworth Road in Waukee is widened to Grand Prairie Parkway, which could be 2029 or later.
• Projects in the first two years of the city's five-year Capital Improvement Plan are generally on track, but those in the later years could be postponed, Wilwerding says.

The bottom line: Metro planners have this on their radar.