The modernized freeway now handles on average between 75,000 and 125,000 vehicles per day, making it the busiest highway in the state of Iowa.

An interchange with 31st Street is 0.5 miles (0.80 km) later at exit 6, which provides access to Drake University to the north, and to Terrace Hill, the governor's mansion, to the south.

[6] At the Des Moines River, I-235 passes Wells Fargo Arena, the main Iowa Events Center facility, which lies to the south along the western bank and the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden to the north on the eastern bank.

At Iowa 163, I-235 begins curving to the north, dividing an industrial district to the west and residential areas to the east.

[8] Construction of the freeway required the acquisition of 1,650 parcels, the demolition of three schools and seven churches, and closure of the original Des Moines Golf and Country Club.

The first two years consisted of rebuilding most of the bridges which cross it, starting with 42nd Street in West Des Moines.

The final four years of the project entailed finishing the remaining bridges and widening, regrading, and repaving the entire length of the highway.

[10] An additional part of the highway improvement plan were three pedestrian bridges, located at 40th, 44th, and East 6th streets.

By selecting a tied arch form, the Iowa Department of Transportation was able to keep disruption of traffic to a minimum during construction.

An innovative curved screen system is used to enhance security and the appearance of the structure creating a visually appealing experience for pedestrians and bicyclists using the bridge.