ITD and ISP to host winter driving class in Lewiston on December 13

Picture of a ISP trooper and a ITD operator presenting to a classroom and sharing winter driving tips.

The Idaho Transportation Department and Idaho State Police are teaming up to provide a free, informative and engaging winter driving safety class on Saturday, December 13 in Lewiston as the region prepares for icy roads and adverse weather.

The classes are designed to help drivers prepare for Idaho’s winter conditions by covering topics like vehicle readiness, proper equipment, defensive driving techniques, and how to safely share the road with snowplows. Instructors include state troopers and ITD operators who bring firsthand experience from years of working on Idaho’s roads and responding to emergencies during severe weather.

While these classes are open to everyone of all ages and skill levels, they are especially valuable for:

Young drivers with limited winter driving experience
New drivers, including those preparing to start driver’s education in the next year
New residents facing their first Idaho winter

Lewiston Winter Driving Class event details:

Saturday, December 13
10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
ITD District 2 Office, 2600 Frontage Road, Lewiston, ID 83501 (The main entrance is on the south side of the building near the flag poles.)
Register online here. Seating is limited. Additional courses may be scheduled later.

More information can be found on ITD’s website Travel page, itd.idaho.gov/travel.

I-84 eastbound lane closure Tuesday at Gowen Road exit for bridge repair work

Graphic map showing I-84 interchange with local road. The area of I-84 over the road is highlighted indicating the construction area.

The Idaho Transportation Department will close a single lane on Interstate 84 eastbound at the Gowen Road exit from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to complete bridge repair work, weather permitting.

Work is required to be done during the day due to temperature requirements to effectively apply repair materials. A single lane will remain open, with traffic alternating between lanes as needed throughout the work period.

Work on the bridge was completed overnight earlier this summer. This daytime closure will allow ITD crews to finish the remaining repairs and restore the structure to full service.

Drivers should expect delays and are encouraged to plan ahead. For the most current traffic updates, visit 511.idaho.gov or download the ITD 511 app.

Lane and sidewalk closures on Eagle Road starting Monday

Construction equipment installs a variable speed limit sign along a roadway, with the speed display panel visible.

Starting Monday, the Idaho Transportation Department will be working along Eagle Road between Chinden Boulevard and Ustick Road to work on underground utilities for the installation of variable speed limit signs.

Motorists can expect lane closures from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. until Dec. 10. Pedestrian traffic will be detoured to alternate routes along Eagle Road, Chinden Boulevard, and McMillian Road for daytime sidewalk and shoulder closures.

This work is part of the on-going effort to improve safety on Eagle Road. These variable speed limit signs will provide speed feedback for drivers and reduce speed limits during peak traffic times. The signs are expected to be operational within the next few months.

For more details about the VSL sign project, visit: https://itdprojects.idaho.gov/pages/eagle-road-safety-corridor

ITD and ISP partner to launch Winter Driving Safety Campaign

In preparation of more snow in the region, we will temporarily close U.S. Highway 20 from Anderson Dam Road to Hill City tomorrow.

BOISE — As winter weather returns to Idaho, the Idaho Transportation Department and Idaho State Police are partnering to launch a statewide Winter Driving Safety Campaign. The initiative aims to reduce crashes and fatalities by promoting safe driving habits, snowplow awareness, and enforcement of seat belt and impaired driving laws.

“Each winter we see too many crashes that could have been avoided,” ISP Major Shawn Staley said. “Driving too fast for conditions and following too closely are among the top causes when roads are icy. And wearing your seat belt is the best defense in a crash–every time.”

Despite progress, 14% of Idahoans still aren’t buckling up. In recent years, unrestrained occupants accounted for a majority of fatalities in crashes statewide.

Holidays can be very tough for families who have lost someone. Wearing a seatbelt is proven to be the most effective way to survive a crash,” said Josephine Middleton, Highway Safety Manager at OHS. “Talk to your family about buckling up every time they get into a vehicle to avoid an unnecessary tragedy.”

In addition to seat belt patrols, ISP will conduct emphasis patrols targeting impaired driving. In Idaho, 86 lives were lost to impaired driving in 2024.

Drivers are urged to follow these safety tips:

Always wear a seat belt.
Never drive impaired; plan a sober ride in advance.
Slow down and increase following distance in snow, ice, or rain.
Avoid distractions and stay alert for changing conditions.
Give plows lots of room to work. The majority of snowplow strikes involve another vehicle passing too close or following too close and running into the plow. The front plow is 12 feet wide, and a wing plow is 10 feet wide on the right. Plows also have large blind spots.

ITD encourages drivers to prepare vehicles with snow tires, emergency kits, and full fuel tanks. Before traveling, check road conditions at 511.idaho.gov and monitor forecasts at weather.gov.

Together, ITD and ISP are working to ensure every journey ends safely.

Border Ops: ITD hosts Montana DOT for winter operations preview

A large group of Operations employees from ITD and MDT between vehicle with both state logos on them.

ITD, MDT, DOT, ISP- there were a lot of letters, different job titles and laughter floating around the Island Park shed recently, as the Idaho Transportation Department hosted the Montana Department of Transportation for a partnership lunch.

The Ellis and West Yellowstone maintenance sheds, and others from Montana Butte District 2, joined ITD Ashton/Island Park foreman Ryan Wright and his crews on Wednesday, November 5. Many ITD leadership, including District Engineer Jason Minzghor, Engineering Manager Karen Hiatt, Engineering Manager Bryan Young, and Operations Engineer Jeremie Pettingill, participated as well. Island Park-stationed Idaho State Police trooper Braiden Hill also joined the group.

The get-together served to allow Operations divisions to meet face to face and discuss ways both states can continue to help each other plow snow, respond to wildfire closures, and much more at the border of the two states. The lunch marked the first time that many of those in attendance had met in person before.

This past summer, many of them spoke often as State Highway 87 was closed for response to the Horn Fire that burned nearly 3,000 acres.

Through laughter and casual conversation over good food, along with professional exchanges and discussion, MDT and ITD folks left better prepared for the winter and year ahead.

The Island Park area and corridor of US-20 to West Yellowstone receives one of the greatest and longest lasting amounts of snow in Idaho. The routes attract a huge influx of year-round recreationists and are lifelines to communities in both states.

This partnership lunch will continue to be held annually, with ITD intending to travel to Montana’s turf next year.

I-90 westbound off-ramp reopening Friday in Post Falls

Model showing the new routes for drivers using the westbound I-90 off ramp in Post Falls.

The Idaho Transportation Department is approaching a major milestone towards completion of the Interstate 90, State Highway 41 Interchange in Post Falls. Starting Friday traffic will be able to use the new westbound off-ramp to exit I-90 onto SH-41. The temporary signal at the Seltice Way Interchange will be removed.

This off ramp was closed in early March to allow crews the space needed to construct the new Single Point Urban Interchange signal and the new off ramp lanes.

Motorists exiting I-90 headed north on SH-41 will bypass the intersection and merge right with northbound traffic.
Motorists exiting I-90 headed south on SH-41 will arrive at the signal and wait to turn left through the intersection.

Watch a video to learn more about the new interchange routes.

The next step in this project is to open all remaining lanes of SH-41, which is expected to happen in spring of 2026.

ITD appreciates the community’s ongoing patience and safe driving during construction of this project.

For more information, visit the project website at itdprojects.idaho.gov/pages/i90sh41ic, email info@i90corridor.com or call 208-738-4190.

Chief Deputy/COO Dan McElhinney leaves ITD

With more than three decades of public service, Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) Chief Deputy Director and Chief Operations Officer Dan McElhinney has announced he is leaving state service.

McElhinney focused on relationships and working with local leaders and community members to improve safety on Idaho’s transportation system. A significant advocate for stakeholder partnerships, he established the work zone safety task force and strengthened the Construction Partnering program with the Idaho Associated General Contractors.

“I am so grateful for Dan’s dedication and emphasis on connecting with communities and overseeing the historic investments in construction focused on safety and mobility, which have enhanced quality of life for Idahoans,” said ITD Director Scott Stokes.

ITD Chief Engineer Dave Kuisti has been named acting Chief Operations Officer until permanent leadership position changes are determined.

US-12 emergency rock scaling project to reduce likelihood of rockfall

Picture taken from a drone on a cloudy day above US-12 and overlooking the rocky slope by Arrow Bridge.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26 UPDATE:

U.S. Highway 12 near Arrow Bridge reopened all lanes of traffic as of 2:30 p.m. today. Crews completed rock scaling, excavation and cleanup work on the rocky hillside after a section of the slope shifted, causing loose rocks to create a safety hazard. Traffic may now travel on US-12 near Arrow Bridge without interruption.

As an additional safety measure, a concrete barrier has been placed near the edge of the roadway to protect motorists should any small rocks or debris come loose. Crews worked around the clock and removed an estimated 350 truckloads of debris from the hillside since Friday.

“A big thank you to both our construction partners and maintenance crews for mobilizing and tackling the slope so quickly,” Operations and Traffic Engineering Manager Jared Hopkins said. “I would also like to extend ITD’s appreciation to other partners including the Idaho State Police, Idaho Fish and Game, Nez Perce County Sheriff, Nez Perce County Road and Bridge, and the City of Lewiston Fire Department for their help orchestrating this multiday, emergency project on US-12.”

With holiday travel approaching, drivers are reminded to use Idaho 511 for the most up-to-date traffic and road condition information across the state. Travelers can visit the website at 511.idaho.gov, dial 5-1-1 or download the Idaho 511 app on any smart device.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 25 UPDATE:

U.S. Highway 12 near Arrow Bridge will re-open one lane at 4 p.m. this afternoon for commuters. The crack has been stabilized and loose rock over a large section of the slope has been removed.

Drivers should use caution when approaching the work zone and be ready to stop when instructed. Flaggers will allow alternating lanes of traffic to travel through with delays lasting up to 20 minutes. Overnight, operators will continue their systematic work of loading and hauling away debris.

ITD will continue to provide any necessary updates during the cleanup process. The most recent schedule can be found at https://itd.idaho.gov/news/us-12-emergency-rock-scaling-project-starts-today-to-reduce-likelihood-of-rockfall/.

Additionally, drivers should continue to use Idaho 511 for the most up-to-date traffic and closure information. Travelers can visit the website at 511.idaho.gov, dial 5-1-1 or download the Idaho 511 app on any smart device.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 24 UPDATE:

The Idaho Transportation Department is scheduled to close U.S. Highway 12 near Arrow Bridge tomorrow from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to allow crews to continue addressing the emergency rock scaling project that started last week. Motorists will be redirected to alternative routes on U.S. Highway 95, State Highway 3, State Highway 13, and State Highway 162.

The highway reopened to one lane over the weekend after work progressed well, but additional heavy equipment modified with special attachments should arrive in the morning to address the remainder of the slope. This closure is necessary to keep the public safe.

ITD will provide any necessary updates as the work progresses throughout the day. However, motorists should plan for a closure extending to 5 p.m. The most recent schedule can be found at https://itd.idaho.gov/news/us-12-emergency-rock-scaling-project-starts-today-to-reduce-likelihood-of-rockfall/.

Additionally, drivers should continue to follow Idaho 511 for the most up-to-date traffic and closure information. Travelers can visit the website at 511.idaho.gov, dial 5-1-1 or download the Idaho 511 app on any smart device.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22 UPDATE:

U.S. Highway 12 near Arrow Bridge has re-opened one lane this evening with flaggers allowing a single, alternating lane of traffic to pass through the work zone through the night. Drivers should plan for delays of up to 20 minutes.

This is a dynamic project, with conditions that may change quickly so ITD encourages the public to use Idaho 511 for the most up-to-date traffic and closure information. Travelers can visit the website at 511.idaho.gov, dial 5-1-1 or download the Idaho 511 app on any smart device.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21 UPDATE:

All lanes of U.S. Highway 12 near Arrow Bridge will temporarily re-open to traffic starting at 5:30 p.m. tonight until 8:00 a.m. tomorrow morning. Crews have made significant progress on the slope above US-12 and engineers have deemed it safe to open for traffic through the night.

Drivers should expect flaggers throughout the area to monitor traffic and the slope for safety.

Work will start again tomorrow morning, closing US-12 at 8:00 a.m. If all goes as planned, ITD aims to reopen the highway at 5:00 p.m. tomorrow evening. Idaho 511 is the best resource for drivers with updated traffic conditions, detour routes and closure information.

Please use caution through the area and be aware of the possibility of debris in the roadway as work continues to clear the slope of loose rocks through the weekend.

Up-to-date traffic information and the latest schedule for this project can be found by visiting 511.idaho.gov. Travelers can also dial 5-1-1 or download the Idaho 511 app on any smart device.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20 UPDATE:

All lanes on U.S. Highway 12 near Arrow Bridge will close tomorrow at noon for rock scaling. Crews will proactively dislodge large rocky sections from the nearby slope under controlled conditions which decreases the likelihood of future rockfalls that create a safety hazard for drivers. Traffic will be detoured to alternative state routes on U.S. Highway 95, State Highway 3, State Highway 13, and State Highway 162.

The closure will stay in place around the clock until crews finish removing unstable rock. Because conditions on the slope can vary, a specific reopening time can’t be set in advance. Drivers should plan for an extended closure. However, if work progresses smoothly, the closure is not expected to last more than a day or two. At this time, we do not expect this closure to impact the Thanksgiving holiday.

“The decision to close the highway was made from a safety standpoint to protect travelers from falling rocks and to allow for a timelier cleanup process,” Operations and Traffic Engineering Manager Jared Hopkins said. “Heavy equipment will load trucks with the freshly fallen rocks and those will be hauled offsite.”

In addition, there will be increased truck activity outside of the work zone. Trucks will frequently be entering and exiting the highway on US-12 by Cherry Lane Bridge and near the south end of Arrow Bridge.

Experts have been monitoring the slope since Tuesday to ensure there is no danger to drivers and flaggers have been providing traffic control. Motorists should also pay close attention to road signs posted in the area.

Up-to-date traffic information can be found by visiting 511.idaho.gov. Travelers can also dial 511 or download the Idaho 511 app.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19 UPDATE:

Rock scaling crews arrived on site today in preparation for the US-12 emergency roadside project near Arrow Bridge. The slope was evaluated and will be prepped for scaling.

Anchor points will be installed so that workers can climb the slope with their equipment. It is anticipated that the rock removal will begin on Friday.

While rocks are dislodged, flaggers will stop traffic at a safe distance. Delays will be 20 minutes at a time. If conditions change, a full closure may be implemented for safety.

Up-to-date traffic information can be found by visiting 511.idaho.gov. Travelers can also dial 5-1-1 or download the Idaho 511 app.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18 UPDATE:

The Idaho Transportation Department is conducting rock scaling work to stabilize the slope above U.S. Highway 12 near Arrow Bridge between mileposts 15 and 16. This effort began today and is expected to continue through the middle of next week. Work will intermittently affect traffic.

Scaling involves wedging and prying debris loose proactively, with rocks falling from the hillside down to the road. Specialized equipment will excavate rock at the top and flatten the slope.

“We are taking a proactive approach by dislodging any unstable material with professional scalers in a controlled setting,” Operations and Traffic Engineering Manager Jared Hopkins said. “For the safety of the traveling public, we’ll have flaggers there to monitor the slope and stop traffic while workers are scaling.”

An anticipated work schedule is as follows and is subject to change based on conditions:

Tue., Nov. 18 – Thu., Nov 20: Flagging operations with 20-minute delays.
Fri., Nov. 21 – Sun., Nov. 23: Full closure potentially all day and overnight. Motorists will be detoured to alternative route on State Highway 13 or State Highway 162.
Mon., Nov. 24 – Wed., Nov. 26: Flagging operations with 20-minute delays until work concludes.

“If the slope becomes too unstable, an extended closure may be needed and drivers will be detoured to State Highway 13 or State Highway 162 in that case,” Hopkins said. “As work continues, we may allow traffic to flow without being stopped during work if it is safe to do so.”

Up-to-date traffic information can be found by visiting 511.idaho.gov. Travelers can also dial 5-1-1 or download the Idaho 511 app.

SH-55 closed between Florida Ave and Lake Ave this weekend

Aerial view of a roadway under construction running through farmland and developed areas, with vehicles traveling on the open lanes and work zones marked by orange fencing on both sides of the corridor.

The Idaho Transportation Department will close State Highway 55 (Karcher Road) between Florida Avenue and Lake Avenue from Friday at 10 p.m. until Monday at 5 a.m.

This will allow crews to replace an irrigation pipe just east of the SH-55 and Florida Avenue intersection, which must be completed before paving the roadway.

Highway traffic is encouraged to detour around the closure using Interstate 84, State Highway 19 and U.S. 95. To view a map of the closure location and detour visit the project website at itdprojects.idaho.gov/pages/55farmway

This work is a part of the larger SH-55 project occurring between Farmway Road and Middleton Road to improve safety and mobility along the SH-55 Corridor in Canyon County. Construction is expected to be finished in fall 2027.

For more information about the SH-55 Farmway to Middleton widening project, please visit itdprojects.idaho.gov/pages/55farmway, call 208-477-1379, or email info@55farmwaytomiddleton.org.

To receive text alerts about these weekend closures, text 55FARMWAY to 866-483-8422.

Nighttime closures Monday and Tuesday at the Karcher Interchange Bridge

Aerial view of traffic traveling across a bridge on State Highway 55 in Nampa, passing under overhead signs for I-84 west to Caldwell and Ontario, Midland Boulevard north, and the Karcher Bypass.

The Idaho Transportation Department will close the Karcher Overpass Bridge on Monday, and Tuesday from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m each night. Crews will be removing the large steel structure that holds the signs over the bridge to make room for new signs that will support the new lane configuration.

Detours signs will be posted for drivers during the closures.

Motorists traveling south on Karcher Road (State Highway 55):

Travel south on the Karcher Bypass.
Turn right onto West Karcher Road.
Turn left onto Midland Boulevard.
Turn right onto Caldwell Boulevard.
Continue straight to Karcher Road (SH-55).

Motorists traveling north on Karcher Road (SH-55):

Use the eastbound on-ramp to merge on to Interstate-84.
Exit I-84 at Northside Boulevard (Exit 35).
Travel north on Northside Boulevard.
Turn left onto Karcher Road/Karcher Bypass.
Continue on Karcher Road/Karcher Bypass.

Click here to view the detour map.

The I-84, Karcher Interchange project will improve safety and mobility at the interchange and along Karcher Road in Nampa. Crews are expected to place final touches in late spring of 2026.

Stay informed by signing up for email and text alerts regarding project updates by texting 84CORRIDOR to 1-866-483-8422 or visit the project page at itdprojects.idaho.gov/pages/karcheric.