The Buena Vista County Board of Supervisors yesterday morning approved an addendum to its RISE grant agreement with the Iowa Department of Transportation, formally shifting responsibility for a major intersection tied to Phase 3 of the Platinum Crush Road project.
The addendum covers the Iowa Highway 7 and 70th Avenue intersection east of Alta. County Engineer Bret Wilkinson explained that while Buena Vista County had originally been slated to administer the work, the DOT District 3 office will now take over construction and apply the remaining Revitalize Iowa’s Sound Economy Program funds directly.
Wilkinson said the change does not reduce funding for the county, but it does clarify reimbursement for Phase 1 and removes uncertainty about who controls the project.
He added the addendum effectively releases the county from liability.
Supervisors discussed easements and right‑of‑way surveys already completed by the DOT. Wilkinson noted landowners will be contacted individually with detailed drawings showing how much property may be acquired. A public hearing is scheduled for April, when residents will see more precise measurements and proposed changes.
Drainage concerns also surfaced, particularly near Villa Road and Buena Vista University Golf Course at Lake Creek. Wilkinson said the DOT’s design firm, HNTB, is listening to local input.
