Interim plan in place at busy SH-16 intersection following crash

An interim operational plan is now in place at the intersection of State Highway 16 and Substation Road in Emmett, following a crash in October.

On Oct. 16, a large truck collided with the traffic signal at this busy intersection, causing significant damage to both the foundation and the electrical conduit of the signal. As a result, the intersection has now reopened with an interim traffic pattern to ensure safety and mobility until the permanent repairs are made.

Under this interim operational plan, stop signs have been installed to facilitate traffic flow. Drivers can make the following movements:

Westbound SH-16 to Substation Road (right turn)
Eastbound SH-16 to Substation Road (left turn)

Drivers on Substation Road can only turn right onto the highway. Those wanting to cross the highway or go left will be detoured to South John Avenue. Rerouting traffic to a signalized intersection is best to mitigate safety risks at the intersection.

The Idaho Transportation Department anticipates that these interim measures will remain in place until late November. This timeframe will allow for the ordering of new parts, as well as the demolition and reconstruction of the foundation, and to restore the electrical connections.

ITD appreciates the public’s patience and encourages drivers to always check their route at 511.idaho.gov.

Nighttime ramp closures will occur at the I-84 10th Avenue Interchange in Caldwell beginning Monday

Picture of I-84 and 10th Avenue in Caldwell.

The Idaho Transportation Department will close the Interstate 84 westbound on- and off-ramps at the 10^th Avenue Interchange beginning Monday evening. These nighttime closures will allow crews to work on the storm sewer under 10th Avenue and the westbound ramps.

Here’s what to expect:

The 10^th Avenue westbound on-ramp will close on Monday and Tuesday nights (Nov. 4 & 5) from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.
The 10^th Avenue westbound off-ramp will close on Tuesday and Wednesday nights (Nov. 5 & 6) from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.
Flaggers will direct traffic on 10^th Avenue at nighttime under the 10^th Avenue bridge from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m.
During this work motorists will drive on a gravel surface on 10^th Avenue.
Detours will be in place for ramp closures. Click here to view detour maps.

Motorists can expect intermittent local road closures, lane closures and ramp closures throughout the duration of the project. Construction is anticipated to be completed in 2027.

For more information about the project and to sign up for updates:

Visit: itdprojects.idaho.gov/pages/I-84-corridor
Text: Click here or text 84CORRIDOR to 1-866-483-8422
Email: Click here or email 84CORRIDOR@itd.idaho.gov
Call: (208) 334-8002

ITD values the safety of crews and motorists. Please use caution when driving through the work zone. To plan your route in advance, visit 511.idaho.gov.

Tribal discoveries, wildlife protection propel ITD projects to national awards

Cultural discoveries on a highway construction project in northern Idaho that changes the narrative for Native American heritage in the area, and the state’s first wildlife overpass, were the catalysts for a pair of awards Oct. 31 from the nation’s premiere transportation governing body.

The awards were presented to the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) at the annual meeting Thursday of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

“These two AASHTO national awards again prove that our employees are fantastic,” confirmed ITD Chief Deputy and Chief Operations Officer Dan McElhinney. “The SH-21 Lucky Peak wildlife crossing is a great partnering example, and the U.S. 95 McArthur Lake Bridge showcased excellent Tribal teamwork. Partnerships solved wildlife safety with cultural preservation success.”

The cultural award was received by Jyl Wheaton of the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho (KTOI) and ITD Project Manager on the construction, CarrieAnn Hewitt.

The project itself was fairly straightforward – an $11M project in Boundary County that rebuilt an existing two-lane section, adding wider shoulders, and replacing a box culvert over Deep Creek, which provides an outlet to McArthur Lake. The existing width-restricted box culvert was replaced with a 300-foot span bridge to provide safe animal passage under the highway. During excavation, tribal artifacts were found, requiring an orchestrated approach to planning for the preservation of these key cultural resources. A one-of-a-kind partnership was forged between ITD, the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho, and contractors to preserve the rich history of the area’s indigenous people. One of the discoveries was a game-changer in terms of traditional thought. Native American artifacts were found that pre-dated the earliest-known timelines – these artifacts showed that the earliest human existence in the upper Columbia River Basin came some 4,000 years earlier than previously thought!

ITD’s Scott Rudel managed the wildlife overpass project, built on State Highway 21 just east of Boise. The $7.5M project constructed a 150-foot long wildlife overpass and more than a mile of big-game fencing parallel to the highway to guide animals to the overpass, significantly reducing wildlife-vehicle collisions on this busy highway section. Improving motorist safety and protecting the well-being of residents and commuters, along with wildlife alike benefits the traveling public, hunting and recreational heritage, and helps sustain the benefits our valuable wildlife resources and public lands provide. ITD wildlife-vehicle crash safety data and Dept. of Fish and Game GPS data determined the location of the overpass by finding where most migrating mule deer and elk crossed the highway. This is the next step in the long-range vision to promote safety, mobility, and economic opportunity along SH-21 between Lucky Peak and Idaho City. The goal is to reduce wildlife collisions in the area by 80%.

The AASHTO President’s Transportation Awards are considered the highest honor for state departments of transportation. It is proof positive that ITD consistently produces great projects on behalf of the taxpayers of Idaho. The two awards mark 23 President’s Awards received since 2014.

ITD avalanche team assesses Wapiti Fire damage on SH-21 avalanche paths

The Idaho Transportation Department’s avalanche team is back in Lowman preparing for the upcoming winter season. The team recently conducted an aerial assessment to evaluate changes in the corridor caused by the Wapiti Fire.

“The aerial survey gave us a clearer understanding of the risks,” ITD Avalanche Team Leader Bill Nicholson said. “We feel reassured as it pertains to avalanches. However, the fire has increased the potential for mudslides and debris flows. Our team is ready, and we remain focused on keeping the highway safe for travelers just like we do every year.”

Another difference this winter brings is La Niña. The National Weather Service predicts colder temperatures and increased precipitation for the region. Excessive moisture in areas impacted by wildfires could result in a heightened risk of flooding and slides.

ITD’s avalanche team is stationed in Lowman, 20 miles from an avalanche-prone section of State Highway 21 that spans from Grandjean to Banner Summit. Every winter, the team monitors conditions and makes the decision on when to close roads due to avalanche danger.

There are more than 70 avalanche paths along SH-21. The ITD avalanche team also closely monitors U.S. Highway 12 near the Montana border.

There are only three highways in the United States that fall under the ‘High’ category in the Avalanche Hazard Index: SH-21 in Lowman, State Highway 210 in Utah, and U.S. Highway 550 in Colorado.

Franklin Road closure begins Monday near McDermott Road in Nampa

Franklin Road will be closed between McDermott and Star roads in Nampa on Monday and Tuesday. This closure is necessary for crews to safely install overhead sign structures near the future State Highway 16 extension.

The closure will begin at 7 a.m. on Monday and continue until 6 p.m. on Tuesday. Motorists are advised to plan for extra travel time and use an alternate route, as traffic will be detoured to Cherry Lane. Access to businesses and residences in the area will remain open throughout the closure.

Before traveling, drivers are encouraged to check 511.idaho.gov for current road conditions and updates on their route. For more information on the SH-16 project, visit itdprojects.idaho.gov/pages/sh16corridor.

Road striping begins on SH-55

Vehicles involved in a mobile painting operation

The Idaho Transportation Department will begin striping State Highway 55 today. As crews work their way north, drivers are urged to be patient and avoid passing during active painting operations.

The striping, which will cover the stretch from Horseshoe Bend to New Meadows, is expected to take up to four days to complete. During this time, a convoy of vehicles consisting of pace cars, a paint truck, and a crash cushion trailer will work together to ensure the safety of both the crew and the public. This line of vehicles will be moving slowly as they paint the roadway markings to ensure they last.

All of Idaho’s highways are painted at least once each year, with some areas receiving a second coat. This year, ITD will stripe more than 3,000 lane miles across Southwest Idaho. Drivers should exercise caution when following striping trucks, as driving over wet paint can strip away the reflective beads, reducing the visibility of road markings at night.

Snake River Rest Area vandalized three times in last month

Broken door due to vandalism at Snake River Rest Area.

The Snake River Rest Area, located on eastbound Interstate 84, just two miles from Ontario, serves as a vital first stop for many travelers entering Idaho. Unfortunately, the rest area has been the target of repeated vandalism, with three separate incidents occurring in September alone.

The recent acts of vandalism include a shattered window, a broken glass door, and the destruction of a child changing area. This rest stop not only provides essential public restroom facilities but also welcomes visitors to Idaho with its visitor center.

“These facilities are here to serve travelers, but each act of vandalism makes it harder to maintain the level of service we strive to provide. If you see someone acting suspiciously or damaging property, please speak up,” Facilities Operations Manager John Hall said.

The Idaho Transportation Department urges anyone who witnesses vandalism to contact the Payette County Sheriff’s Office.

Broken window due to vandalism happening at the Snake River Rest Area.

SH-21 reopens following Wapiti Fire

The Idaho Transportation Department will reopen State Highway 21 between Lowman and Stanley at 8 a.m. on Friday. Traffic will be managed with a pilot car or flagging operation to safely guide vehicles through areas where crews are working on repairs.

ITD crews continue to work alongside emergency contractors to address the significant damage caused by the Wapiti Fire. This work includes clearing ditches, hauling materials to rebuild eroded hillsides, removing hundreds of hazardous trees, and replacing damaged guardrails. Once completed, steel guardrails that meet new modern standards will replace the burnt wooden rails.

Drivers are advised to avoid unnecessary trips and reminded not to stop along the highway, especially in the burn areas. Those traveling through the affected area should expect:

Traffic guided by a pilot car or flaggers during active work.
A temporary reduced speed limit of 45 mph.
Significant delays when crews are working on the highway.
Repair work continuing until weather conditions make further progress impossible.

The recent rain in the area has helped suppress the fire but has also caused slides and boulders to fall onto the highway. Due to the evolving conditions created by the wildfire, ITD advises drivers to always check 511.idaho.gov before heading out.

Overnight I-84 closures will begin Sunday between Meridian and Nampa

I-84 closure will begin Sunday between Meridian and Nampa.

The Idaho Transportation Department advises motorists to plan for nighttime lane closures on Interstate 84 beginning on Sunday between Meridian and Nampa.

Crews are painting permanent striping and installing overhead signs at the future interchange of State Highway 16 and I-84. One direction of I-84 will be closed each night during this work.

Sunday, Sept. 8:

Eastbound I-84 will be closed between the Garrity Boulevard (Exit 38) and Ten Mile Road (Exit 42) Interchanges from 9 p.m. Sunday night to 5 a.m. on Monday. Traffic will be detoured down Franklin Road. Click here for the detour map.

Tuesday, Sept. 10:

Westbound I-84 will be closed between the Ten Mile Road (Exit 42) and Garrity Boulevard (Exit 38) Interchanges from 10 p.m. Tuesday to 6 a.m. on Wednesday morning. Traffic will be detoured down Franklin Road. Click here for the detour map.

Additional nighttime lane restrictions on I-84 will continue through September, but at least two lanes will remain open in each direction. The speed limit will be reduced to 45 mph at night.

To request updates about the State Highway 16 project, text HIGHWAY16 to 1-866-483-8422. For more information, visit itdprojects.idaho.gov/pages/sh16corridor.

SH-21 Wapiti Fire information and updates

A burned sign along SH-21 from the Wapiti Fire.

Update Sept. 12, 2024 – State Highway 21 remains closed as the Wapiti Fire continues to burn between Lowman and Stanley. Despite ongoing fire activity, the Idaho Transportation Department has completed a damage assessment of the area.

Emergency contracts have been established, and repair efforts are actively underway. Crews are currently removing hazard trees along the highway, and assessments indicate that approximately 49 road signs and several miles of guardrail will need to be replaced in Boise County. The guardrail is crucial, given the steep slopes along this mountainous highway.

“We are taking a proactive approach to this situation, and as long as it is safe to do so, we will continue our work in the area. Completing the damage assessment was a critical first step, allowing us to secure the necessary resources and determine what needs to be done to safely reopen the highway when the time comes,” Field Operations Manager Eric Copeland said.

Throughout the duration of this fire, ITD crews will continue to conduct twice-daily patrols using loaders to clear burnt trees, rocks, and debris from the highway, ensuring that fire crews and emergency responders can safely access the affected areas.

To date, the Wapiti Fire has burned more than 120,000 acres and is currently 12% contained. As multiple fires continue to impact Southwest Idaho, ITD encourages travelers to check road conditions at 511.idaho.gov before planning their journeys.

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Update Sept. 6, 2024 – Both directions of State Highway 21 remain closed from Sourdough Lodge to Stanley (MP 84 to 130). At the time of this update, the fire has burned more than 100,000 acres and is 12% contained. Traffic to/from the Stanley area can use State Highway 75 as an alternate route. There is no estimate on when SH-21 will reopen.

There are several active wildfires burning throughout Idaho . Wildfires don’t just affect landscapes—they force wildlife to migrate, moving away from flames and into new areas. This means more animals are crossing roads and entering populated areas, creating unexpected encounters with drivers. As the animals travel in search of food and habitat, they are at risk of additional threats like vehicle strikes. Keep yourself safe by slowing down, staying alert and watching for wildlife on the roads.

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The Idaho Transportation Department encourages all drivers to check 511.idaho.gov for current conditions on your route.

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Update Aug. 27, 2024 – Lower Stanley is being evacuated due to the movement of the Wapiti Fire. State Highway 75 will be closed at Museum (MP 190), Gateway (MP 192) and Casino Creek (195). Both directions of SH-75 are closed due to the fire risk. State Highway 21 from Stanley to Sour Dough Lodge is still closed in both directions.

We will continue to monitor fire movement and issue road closures as needed. Drivers in the area should keep an eye out for signage about the fire and avoid areas that are blocked off. The road closures include pedestrian, bicycling and other modes of transportation.

Go to 511.idaho.gov for up to date information on road closures and more. You can also follow Wapiti Fire Info 2024 for more fire information.

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Update Aug. 23, 2024 – The State Highway 21 closure has been expanded from Sourdough Lodge to Stanley (MP 84 to 130) due to wildfire activity from the Wapiti Fire. Only local traffic is permitted between the Sourdough and Warm Springs Airstrip. There is no public access from the highway to surrounding areas including Grandjean, Bull Trout, Cape Horn, Boundary Creek, or Seafoam.

Traffic to/from the Stanley area can use State Highway 75 as an alternate route. Access to local businesses in Lowman and Stanley remains open at this time. Please check with the Boise and Sawtooth National Forests for area closure information. Please check with the Boise and Custer County Sheriffs’ Offices for local road closures and evacuation orders.

There is no estimate on when SH-21 will reopen. Fire information can be found on the National Interagency Fire Center’s website.

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Update Aug. 22, 2024 – State Highway 21 remains closed from Warm Springs Creek to Stanley (MP 92 to 130) due to wildfire activity from the Wapiti Fire. There is currently no public access to the Grandjean area, as the fire’s currently burning on both sides of the highway. Motorists planning to travel between Boise and Stanley must take an alternate route through Ketchum on State Highway 75. There is no estimate for when the road will reopen as fire activity remains unpredictable at this time.

If you are traveling on SH-21, please stay alert for increased fire traffic. It’s crucial not to slow crews down as they work to manage the fire. Avoid traveling to closure points to wait. For your safety, check 511.idaho.gov before you go!

Fire information can be found on the National Interagency Fire Center’s website.

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Aug. 20, 2024 – The Wapiti Fire burning in the Boise National Forest has forced the closure of State Highway 21 near Grandjean. Motorists planning to travel between Boise and Stanley will need to take an alternate route through Ketchum on State Highway 75. There is no estimate for when the road will reopen.

The Wapiti Fire is 10% contained and has burned more than 9,000 acres. The Idaho Transportation Department encourages all drivers to check 511.idaho.gov for current conditions on your route.

Here are some additional safety tips for traveling in areas with wildfires:

Power outages are common near wildfires. Treat non-working traffic signals as four-way stops.
Bring additional food and water in case your trip is delayed.
Driving in smoke is similar to driving in heavy fog. Slow down, maintain a steady pace, and stay alert.
Turn on headlights when driving in smoky areas.
The safest place to wait for a highway to reopen is at home. Avoid traveling to closure points to wait, as closures could last for days.

Fire information can be found on the National Interagency Fire Center’s website.