P33 Set for Major Upgrades Following $2 Million Federal Award
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by Jeff Snyder
DIAGONAL, Iowa — Officials from the federal, state and local level gathered at the Freedom Rock pavilion in Diagonal last Thursday to officially announce a $2 million federal investment to help improve a portion of the P33 roadway located between Diagonal and State Highway 2.
On hand for the ceremony were U.S. Representative Zack Nunn and Federal Highway Administrator Sean McMaster. The duo was joined by a number of local dignitaries including all of the Ringgold County Board of Supervisors, Diagonal Mayor Lester Elliott and state legislators, as well as members of the development boards for both Diagonal and Mount Ayr.
P33 is a crucial roadway that not only facilitates a key northwest passageway through Ringgold County, it is also a critical lifeline for the farm to market farms that dot the countryside along this route, while also a main thoroughfare for area first responders. P33 currently handles over 800 cars and vehicles per day. Years of harsh winters and hot summers have taken their toll on this important corridor.
A total of 6.7 miles of P33 will see a makeover because of the federal funds.
Congressman Nunn was able, with the help of the Ringgold County Board and County Engineer Jared Johnson, to secure funding via (CPF) Community Project Funding FY 2026. Along with resurfacing the roadway, several upgrades will be installed at the same time. The roadway will be widened in several areas to allow the addition of shoulders to be added along with “edge rumble” strips to improve safety and reduce roadway accidents.
“Out here in Ringgold County, a corridor like P33 is how farmers get their products to market, small businesses stay connected and first responders reach Iowans when every minute matters,” Nunn said.
McMaster praised the current administration in Washington D.C. for their delivery on promises to communities like Ringgold County.
“Under the leadership of President Trump and with the advocacy of Congressman Nunn, vital federal dollars are being delivered exactly where they are needed most — our rural Iowa Communities,” he said.
Chairman of the Ringgold County Board of Supervisors Colby Holmes talked about the efforts all those behind the scenes who made this moment possible.
“Receiving $2 million in Community Project Funding is a tremendous investment in the future of Ringgold County,” Holmes said. “This project will improve safety, strengthen our transportation infrastructure and demonstrate what can be accomplished when local leaders and out federal partners work together to meet the needs of our communities.”
Rep. Nunn talked about the current condition of the stretch of roadway after the ceremony.
“I would say that it was due for a little love.” Nunn said a little tongue in cheek.
No official start date was given for the project.
