Kiron, IA - U.S. Congressman Steve King reemphasized a four-lane US 20 through northwestern Iowa as his top transportation priority.  Today’s announcement coincides with “Time Four 20,” a summit hosted by the US 20 Corridor Association at the Sioux City Convention Center. 

“For me, no transportation project equals the urgency I place on Highway 20.  I am determined to seek long-term funding of the project until the last mile is laid, and the ribbon is cut,” said King.

Highway 20, known as the “Midwest Connector,” links Illinois through Iowa to Nebraska almost entirely with four-lane highway.  Only 90 miles remain two-lane, running from Moville to Moorland through Woodbury, Ida, Sac, Calhoun and Webster counties.

Since his swearing-in as a Member of the United States Congress in 2003, King has secured a total of $47 million in federal funding authorizations to complete Highway 20.  An additional $8 million in federal dollars has been secured by King and designated directly to Highway 20.

“For far too long, northwest Iowa has been left out of the development opportunities that come with four-lane highways.  This project will bring people, jobs and wealth into our region,” stated King. Most know that, years ago, in the Iowa Senate I declared my mission to see this highway expanded to four-lanes, and I will continue to drive support from the federal level.”

Summit host, US 20 Corridor Association President, Shirley Phillips, will welcome many leaders including, Congressman Tom Latham of Iowa’s 4th Congressional District. 

Recognizing the leadership of Phillips and all US 20 Corridor Association members, King said, “Thanks to the self-sacrificing work of Shirley, the Association, and many others and their coordination with my office, construction and planning activity are taking place on every mile of Highway 20.”

2006 marked the 50th anniversary of the national interstate system created by President Eisenhower.  Having experienced the strategic importance of the German Autobahn while serving as general in Europe during World War II, President Eisenhower brought home his vision for American security and prosperity and built the modern interstate highway system.  

“Just as Eisenhower followed his vision for interstate roads, we must follow our vision to expand Highway 20 to four-lanes.  We know, just as Ike did, the benefits that will result from linking Iowans to America’s commerce. If every Highway 20 supporter pulls together and we keep sight of our goal, we will all soon meet again at that last ribbon cutting.  But until that moment, I will not stop pushing four-lane 20,” King pledged.

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