Input sought on long-range planning for transportation in Idaho

People review a map of a proposed project

The Idaho Transportation Department is seeking input on long-range planning for transportation across the state through a series of public meetings in the next month.

Comments will inform the update to ITD’s Statewide Long-Range Transportation Plan, a federally required strategy document that is updated every five years and is used by the Idaho Transportation Board and planning staff as a guide to program future studies and projects.

Open houses will be held in each region of the state:

Nov. 18 in Pocatello at the Portneuf Medical Center (777 Hospital Way)

Nov. 19 in Idaho Falls at the Crosspoint Community Church (1900 Grandview Drive)

Dec. 2 in Coeur d’Alene at the Hampton Inn and Suites (1500 West Riverstone Drive)

Dec. 3 in Lewiston at the Lewiston Community Center (1424 Main Street)

Dec. 4 in Boise at Mountain View High School Library (2000 South Millennium Way)

Dec. 8 in Twin Falls at the College of Southern Idaho (315 Falls Avenue)

All events will take place 3 – 7 p.m. The same material will be shared online, with comments sought from Nov. 18 to Jan. 10.

ITD’s Long-Range Transportation Plan will look at the needs of the transportation network out to 2050 and consider a variety of factors including growth, travel demands, land use, safety, economic development, system reliability and anticipated revenue.

“This policy document looks at current conditions, existing plans and future trends in Idaho and lays the foundation for ITD to continue to deliver on our mission of safety, mobility and economic opportunity,” said Amy Schroeder, the division administrator for planning. “It’s not necessarily about identifying specific projects. It’s about determining, through data analysis and public input, the best strategy for investing in the transportation system given the variability of future revenue.”

The plan comes at a time of extraordinary growth and funding uncertainty. Besides seeking public feedback, ITD is engaging with other planning organizations as the plan will look at the transportation network as a whole, which extends beyond state-managed highways to locally owned routes and alternative modes of transportation.

“This is about working with local jurisdictions and planning agencies to address congestion in major cities,” Schroeder said. “It’s also about adopting a statewide perspective and recognizing that it’s just as important to look at improving safety and reducing fatalities in our rural areas.”

An additional public comment period to review the draft plan is planned for summer 2026, and the plan is expected to be released in 2027.

ITD to share revised design for I-90, US-95 Interchange at open house Tuesday

Aerial concept design of the proposed I-90 US-95 Interchange.

The Idaho Transportation Department will host an open house next week in Coeur d’Alene to share information and gather input on a revised design for the Interstate 90 and U.S. Highway 95 Interchange. Following an open house in March, ITD revised the design based on public feedback to accommodate better access between US-95 and Appleway Avenue on both the east and west sides of the highway. The public will have an opportunity to provide input on access concepts and the overall project design.

Open House details:

Date: Tuesday, November 18

Time: 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. (drop in anytime, the whole family is welcome!)

Location: Best Western Plus Coeur d’Alene Inn

506 West Appleway Avenue, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814

For those not able to attend the open house, an online option will share the same information and provide an opportunity to submit feedback. The online open house will be available November 18 at www.i90us95project.com. Comments submitted before December 5 will be considered as official feedback by the project team.

“Public involvement is a crucial component of ITD projects. The revisions to the proposed design directly address comments we heard at the previous open house and demonstrate a strong commitment to including the public in the design process,” ITD Project Manager Joey Sprague said. “We are eager to continue engaging with local businesses, residents, and interested parties to create a design that improves safety and mobility, while reflecting the needs and priorities of the community.”

The design is funded by Governor Little’s Leading Idaho initiative and is the first interchange project to emerge from the I-90, SH-41 to 15^th Street Corridor Study. The goal of the proposed design is to expand the interchange, enhance safety, and improve mobility to support future traffic volumes, which are expected to double by 2045.

To stay up to date on this and other projects on the I-90 corridor, visit itdprojects.idaho.gov/pages/i90corridor and sign up for email updates.

I-90 striping work to impact eastbound traffic on Sunday

COEUR D’ALENE – Drivers should plan for delays this Sunday on eastbound Interstate 90 between Post Falls and Coeur d’Alene as crews complete striping in the work zone to expand the freeway to four lanes. Work will begin around 7 a.m., with traffic reduced to one lane and the speed limit lowered to 45 mph throughout the day.

“This is one of the last weather-dependent tasks we have to complete before winter, and this weekend just might be our last chance to do it with the conditions needed,” Project Manager Tom Trutter said. “We’re doing it Sunday when traffic is lighter, but congestion is still expected so we’re asking drivers to plan extra time and be patient through the work zone.”

Due to the temperatures needed for the paint to dry properly, this work cannot be done overnight.

In addition to this work, new variable speed limit signs will soon be activated along the I-90 corridor during the expansion project. These digital signs allow ITD to adjust posted speeds for safety when crews are working close to traffic. As a reminder, drivers are required to follow the posted speed limit at all times and should not rely on in-car navigation systems or GPS devices through the work zone, as they may differ from the posted speed.

This five-mile stretch of I- 90 from State Highway 41 to U.S. Highway 95 is the most heavily traveled and congested area in the corridor. This is the first construction project to advance from the I-90 Corridor Study from SH-41 to 15th Street to enhance safety and add capacity to support future traffic volumes.

Construction began in August of 2025 and is expected to be complete in 2029.

To stay informed about project updates, impacts and milestones, drivers can sign up for email and text updates at I-90 Widening: SH-41 to US-95 | ITD Projects.

I-90 ramp closure near Cataldo to cause multi-week detour

Aerial view of the eastbound I-90 bridge under construction.

The Idaho Transportation Department advises motorists of an upcoming closure of the eastbound off-ramp on Interstate 90 at Cataldo scheduled to begin Monday. The closure is part of the ongoing bridge replacement project and is expected to last at least three weeks, depending on weather and construction progress.

During this time, eastbound drivers will not be able to exit at Cataldo. Travelers should use the Kingston Exit and return on I-90 westbound to access Cataldo.

The closure will allow crews to remove a temporary ramp and repave portions of I-90 and the existing ramp area needed to shift both lanes of eastbound traffic onto the new bridge for winter.

“We need a short window of decent weather to pave and stripe before winter conditions set in,” Project Manager Megan Koski said. “Our goal is to open the new eastbound bridge to traffic before Thanksgiving, but that will largely depend on how the weather cooperates.”

Because the eastbound off-ramp is part of the detour route for the adjacent Canyon Road Bridge replacement by the East Side Highway District, drivers in the area should expect an updated detour and follow locally posted signs. Questions specifically regarding the Canyon Road Bridge replacement should be directed to the East Side Highway District.

This closure is necessary to ensure safe travel through the work zone during the upcoming winter season. ITD appreciates the public’s patience, and safe driving, as crews complete this important milestone.

Depending on winter conditions, there may be work that is able to be accomplished through the snowy months that will set the stage for the next phase of construction. Drivers may expect to see short duration work zones set up through the area, including the possibility for intermittent single lane closures. Next spring large-scale work will begin to repeat the process of demolition and replacement of the westbound bridge to complete this project.

For the most up-to-date information on road conditions and traffic impacts statewide, visit 511.idaho.gov, download the Idaho 511 app, or call 511.

Priest River community invited to open house for US-2 bridge replacement

Side view of the existing Priest River Bridge on US-2.

The Idaho Transportation Department invites the public to attend an open house to learn about and comment on plans to replace the Priest River Bridge on U.S. Highway 2 next Thursday.

Originally built in 1962, the bridge remains open to traffic but is reaching the end of its expected service life. The foundation is in poor condition and no longer meets modern design standards, making it functionally obsolete and due for full replacement.

At this event, the community can learn about the project’s goals and objectives, review the different replacement design options being considered, ask questions and offer feedback while the project is still in the design phase. All comments gathered during the open house will help shape the final design of the future new Priest River Bridge.

“We make a point to engage the community early enough in design that public feedback can truly make a difference,” Project Manager Randy Durland said. “We know not everyone will have the same vision for the bridge, but hearing from a wide range of voices helps us deliver something that fits Priest River and its people.”

The project, located just east of the city of Priest River, will replace the existing bridge, improve traffic flow, and provide pedestrian access over the river. Construction is currently scheduled to begin in2029-2030 and could last for up to two years, depending on the chosen alternative design.

November Open House
Date: November 6
Time: 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Location: Priest River Event Center, 5399 US-2 Priest River, Idaho

The meeting will be held in an open-house style so people can drop in anytime. This event is open to everyone, including families.

Those who cannot attend in person can review identical information online at https://itdprojects.idaho.gov/pages/us2-priest-river-bridge-replacement and provide feedback during the official public comment period, open November 6-21, 2025.

ITD seeks public feedback to help shape the future of rail in Idaho

UPDATE: Some users are reporting issues submitting their responses and being unable to proceed past the second page. We recommend that respondents hit the next button at the bottom more than once. If that doesn’t work, we encourage users to sign up to receive a different format of the survey, which will be available the week of Nov. 3. We are working to resolve any technical issues in the meantime.

The Idaho Transportation Department is updating the Idaho Statewide Rail Plan and is asking for public input to help guide the future of rail infrastructure across the state.

The plan evaluates the current condition and performance of Idaho’s rail network, identifies system-wide challenges and opportunities, and outlines strategies to strengthen rail infrastructure. The plan will also explore key topics such as rail safety, grade crossings, and access for rail-served industries that help drive Idaho’s economy.

Unlike other statewide transportation plans, this plan does not allocate funding for specific projects. Instead, it provides a strategic foundation that supports future grant applications and coordination with the Federal Railroad Administration and other partners.

“We want to hear from Idaho communities about how rail infrastructure is working today and what improvements would make the biggest difference in the future,” Freight Program Manager Caleb Forrey said. “Your feedback will help us better understand statewide priorities and shape a plan that reflects Idaho’s needs.”

Railways in Idaho are operated by the private sector, with ITD having shared responsibility for safety at highway-rail crossings. As is the case with public transportation in Idaho, there are no dedicated state funding sources for freight or passenger rail beyond match funds for federally-funded improvements to rail crossings.

The online survey is open through November 12 and takes about five minutes to complete. Feedback collected will be summarized in the final plan, which is expected to be released in spring 2026, and used to guide discussions with communities, railroads, and state and federal partners.

A summary of the rail plan is available at itd.idaho.gov/planning.

Abandoned overpass transforms into wildlife crossing near Osburn

A once-abandoned bridge in Osburn is seeing new life, at least for now, thanks to a creative partnership between local residents, conservation groups, and state agencies, including the Idaho Transportation Department.

The structure, a former overpass across Interstate 90, sat unused for decades after nearby mining development closed off the roadway it once served. The surrounding area, however, remained a busy wildlife corridor. For years, elk, deer, and other animals have been struck trying to cross the freeway in that area, which has one of the highest wildlife collision rates on the interstate between Coeur d’Alene and Montana.

That concern led Osburn resident and truck driver Carl Wilson to champion a community effort to turn the unused bridge into a wildlife overpass. Working with partners including the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and several local conservation groups, the community secured grant funding to retrofit the structure with fencing to guide animals safely across the interstate via the abandoned bridge.

While ITD’s role in the project was limited, the agency provided crucial support behind the scenes by granting the necessary permits and helping connect the group with funding resources. A few key staff members in District 1, including former Assistant District Engineer Marvin Fenn and Program Manager Robert Beachler, were instrumental in helping guide the effort to fruition.

“This project really showcases how creative thinking and collaboration can make use of existing infrastructure in new ways,” Beachler said. “It was great to see local initiative and partnerships come together to improve safety for both wildlife and drivers.”

The refurbished bridge officially opened for wildlife use this summer and early reports from Fish and Game trail cameras show whitetail deer already using it, and a nearby underpass, to safely traverse the interstate.

The bridge’s future is limited, but ITD is happy to support the community in putting it to good use for now. Since it no longer serves a transportation purpose and remains ITD-owned, the bridge is scheduled for removal in 2032 as it ages.

“Even temporary or short-term solutions can have meaningful benefits,” said District Engineer Damon Allen. “This project reflects the kind of local collaboration and problem-solving we appreciate being a part of.”

Right-turn lane closure on US-95 in Sagle begins

The Idaho Transportation Department will close the southbound right-turn lane on U.S. Highway 95 at Dufort Road starting at 5 a.m. tomorrow through 5 p.m. on Monday while crews widen it to make it easier and safer for traffic to turn.

Drivers will still be able to turn right onto Dufort Road, but they will do so from the southbound through lane. Because of this, ITD reminds all drivers to use extra caution. Through traffic should be prepared to slow for turning vehicles, and drivers entering the highway from Dufort Road should watch closely for oncoming traffic.

A reduced speed limit of 45 mph will be in place through the work zone on US-95.

This safety improvement follows consultation with regional agencies and law enforcement, who identified widening the turn lane as a quick, low-cost fix to help reduce crashes. The added width will shift turning traffic so it no longer blocks the view of oncoming traffic. This will improve sight distance for drivers on Dufort Road trying to turn onto US-95 and reduce the risk of collisions.

An interchange is planned for this intersection as part of the environmental re-evaluation of the Sagle corridor and ITD’s Proposed Action between Dufort Road and Lakeshore Drive. However, there is no funding for design or construction of that large-scale, long-term improvement at this time. As an added safety enhancement, Bonner County also recently installed flashing stop signs on Dufort Road.

ITD and ISP to host free winter driving classes for the community

As snow season approaches, the Idaho Transportation Department and Idaho State Police are once again teaming up to offer free winter driving safety classes inNorth Idaho. The first one of the year is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 4, from 10 a.m. to noon at the ISP District Office in Coeur d’Alene.

These annual classes have become a community tradition, giving drivers of all ages the knowledge and confidence to handle icy roads and unpredictable weather. Courses are taught by state troopers and ITD operators and cover everything from vehicle preparation and proper equipment to crash response, road conditions, and snowplow safety.

“North Idaho winters can be challenging, but preparation makes all the difference,” said Daryl Rise, a plow operator. “These classes are a great way for drivers, especially teens and new residents, to build safe driving habits before winter conditions hit.”

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

New drivers, ages 14–17, including those preparing to start driver’s education in the next year
Young drivers with limited winter driving experience
New residents facing their first Idaho winter

Registration & Schedule
Several classes are currently scheduled on Saturdays in Coeur d’Alene through mid-December, with additional sessions being added statewide.

Anyone interested should check the ITD website for the most current dates, times and locations as new classes may be added. Registration is required for each participant, and a full list of classes with registration links can be found at:

ITD’s Travel web page

Participants who complete a class will also receive a coupon for 10 percent off a new set of snow tires at any Les Schwab Tires store location in North Idaho. ITD and ISP extend a special thank you to Les Schwab stores for valuing driver safety and supporting these efforts through their partnership.

Part of the new I-90/SH-41 Interchange in Post Falls to open Friday morning

Street view of the SH-41 and Mullan Street intersection showing traffic on the existing lanes, and also the newly constructed lanes where traffic will shift to.

Drivers can expect some big changes at the Interstate 90 and State Highway 41 Interchange early Friday morning as the Idaho Transportation Department plans to open portions of the new Single Point Urban Interchange, or SPUI, that has been under construction since 2022. This shift marks a major milestone in the project and will significantly change how drivers move through the area.

For the first time, SH-41 traffic will be shifted to the west to run underneath the new bridges and connect to the heart of the SPUI. Drivers will also be able to use the new westbound on-ramp and eastbound off-ramp.

Making this shift will require several large-scale closures throughout the interchange area overnight on Thursday to set up cones, barriers, and signs that will safely route vehicles through the new traffic pattern. By early Friday morning motorists will be using parts of the new SPUI.

Here’s what drivers can expect Thursday from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m.:

SH-41 will be closed from 12^th Ave to Seltice Way.
The eastbound off-ramp from I-90 will be closed.
The westbound on-ramp to I-90 will be closed.
Mullan Ave will be closed from SH-41 east to October Glory Street. This closure may be in effect for several days, rather than just overnight.

In addition to the overnight closures, there will be temporary changes to side street and business access along SH-41 between 12th Street and Neufeld Lane. The old highway is several feet higher than the new lanes being opened, so crews will need to lower the ground and add gravel to build temporary road connections. Some of these access points will be closed only overnight, while others may be closed for a week or longer. Signs will be posted and detours in place to help drivers and customers get where they need to go.

Drivers will need to pay close attention to signs and lane markings as they get used to the new layout, especially those traveling south on SH-41. After the traffic shift, drivers in the right lane south of Mullan Avenue will be required to merge onto the westbound I-90 on-ramp, where previously they had the option to either merge or continue south to Seltice Way.

View a graphic of where traffic will be.

“As we implement these traffic changes, we are asking drivers to please plan extra time and follow the signs and traffic control devices,” Project Manager Randy Durland said. “As drivers adjust to these changes, we appreciate everyone’s patience and extra attention in the work zone for the safety of both drivers and workers.”

The I-90/SH-41 Interchange upgrade is part of ITD’s broader investment in regional mobility, safety and long-term infrastructure improvements and is funded by Governor Little’s Leading Idaho program. For the remainder of the year, crews will focus on opening the westbound off-ramp and building the path for bicyclists and pedestrians along SH-41. The full interchange is expected to open next year, though impacts from the month-long operator strike in Washington may extend the duration of construction.

To learn more about the I-90/SH-41 project, visit the project website or email info@i90corridor.com.