Idaho Transportation Department

Idaho 55 Smiths Ferry to Round Valley

Project Facts

Key Number: 1004

The seven-mile stretch of Idaho 55 from south of Smiths Ferry to Round Valley is a narrow, winding highway. The area often experiences congestion during holidays and weekends. The narrow shoulders and tight curves contribute to an accident rate that is 1.5 times higher than the statewide average.

The purpose of the Idaho 55 – Smiths Ferry to Round Valley Alignment Study is to decide which option will best improve safety, address congestion and accommodate for the future.

Project Background

The Idaho 55 – Smiths Ferry to Round Valley Alignment Study began in late 1999. The purpose of the study is to select a roadway option that will improve safety, decrease congestion, address environmental and cultural concerns, and accommodate for the future. Because of the potential for significant environmental impacts, the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requires that an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) be prepared.

Project Description

The study has three essential elements – environmental studies, engineering evaluations and public involvement. Public input has helped the transportation department identify issues, develop options and evaluate alternatives. Five alternatives, plus a “no build” option were previously identified through three rounds of public workshops, and meetings with state and federal agencies.

Project officials have been working to complete the Draft EIS. The Draft EIS is a document that provides a detailed description of the proposed project, the existing environment and an analysis of the anticipated benefits and effects of all reasonable alternatives.

In 2004 the Idaho Transportation Department, in cooperation with state and federal agencies, agreed to drop two alternatives from detailed consideration in the Draft EIS. Environmental studies and engineering evaluations showed that these alternatives have greater impacts to the natural and human environment without offsetting advantages or benefits.

Make Comments

The Idaho Transportation Department values your input. Submit written comments using one of the forms below or contact for more information.
·Email Us please include your name and address
·Download a comment form (word doc)

Contacts

Public Involvement Coordinator
adam.rush@itd.idaho.gov
(208) 334-4444
TDD: (208) 334-4458

Project Manager
tom.haynes@itd.idaho.gov
(208) 334-8925

Compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act

The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) is committed to compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and all related regulations and directives. ITD assures that no person shall on the grounds of race, color, national origin, gender, age, or disability be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination under any ITD service, program, or activity. The department also assures that every effort will be made to prevent discrimination through the impacts of its programs, policies, and activities on minority and low-income populations. In addition, the department will take reasonable steps to provide meaningful access to services for persons with Limited English Proficiency.