Shoshone railroad crossing closed for repairs May 16-18

SHOSHONE – The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) asks drivers in the Shoshone area to plan ahead, as a section of U.S. Route 26 at milepost 165.93 will be closed for railroad repair May 16-18.

The crossing will be closed to motorists starting on Tuesday, May 16 at 6 a.m. and will reopen when work is complete by approximately 6 p.m. on Thursday, May 18. To receive the most current traffic updates, call 511 or sign up at 511.idaho.gov.

Union Pacific Railroad Company will conduct repairs to address the aging infrastructure and includes removing old steel tracks and replacing with new steel tracks, concrete slabs, and asphalt.

Motorists traveling northbound on U.S. Route 93 wishing to proceed toward Shoshone will be detoured west on U.S. Route 26. Those traveling southbound on State Highway 75 wishing to proceed toward Shoshone will be detoured west on U.S. Route 20. The closure and detour will remain for approximately three days until the railroad crossing repairs are completed.

ITD, Idaho State Police, and local law enforcement caution motorists to slow down and pay attention when driving in work zones, where increased speeding fines and other penalties apply. Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead and dial 5-1-1 or visit 511.idaho.gov for information on the state highway or interstate system.

ITD District 4 (South-Central Idaho) 2023 Spring/Summer Construction Projects

*I-84: South Jerome Interchange to Twin Falls Interchange
County: Jerome/Twin Falls
Project: 
Widen Interstate 84 (I-84) between the South Jerome Interchange (Exit 168) and the Twin Falls Interchange (Exit 173) to increase traffic capacity and improve safety.
*This projected is funded with Transportation Expansion and Congestion Mitigation (TECM) funds as part of the Leading Idaho TECM Program. The program allows ITD to accelerate project timelines to address rapid growth and build critical infrastructure that would otherwise take many years to finance and build.

Impact: 
Traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction at night with occasional daytime lane restrictions as necessary. Rolling closures will occur this spring/summer due to rock blasting in the median.
Started: 
April 2023
Expected Completion: 
Fall 2025

US-93: Perrine Bridge Repair
County: 
Twin Falls
Project: 
Planned maintenance to ensure bridge stays structurally sound. Maintenance repairs include bolt replacement, sidewalk repairs, conduit, and baluster repairs.
Impact: 
Intermittent lane closures are expected to accomplish the work and traffic delays across the bridge are to be expected during those times. ITD is implementing new mitigation efforts specifically designed to reduce traffic congestion. Daily traffic updates will be posted, and motorists are encouraged to plan ahead and sign up to receive up-to-date traffic notices directly by phone/email/text. Dial 5-1-1 or visit 511.idaho.gov to receive traffic updates on the state highway or interstate system.
Start:
 May 2023
Expected Completion: 
Spring 2024

I-84 & SH-25: Bridge Repair West Jerome
County: 
Jerome
Project: 
This project involves repairs to the concrete bridge deck, longitudinal bridge joint and transverse bridge joints, as well as various other bridge surfaces and approaches.
Impact: 
Traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction on State Highway 25 (SH-25) with intermittent lane closures on I-84.
Started:
 March 2023
Expected Completion: 
Summer 2023

I-84 & SH-50: Kimberly Interchange
County: 
Cassia
Project: 
Construction of a new diamond interchange including a new overpass bridge to improve the overall safety and functionality of the interchange. The design will add turn lanes and signals at the existing ramps. The design will also provide pedestrian and bicycle facilities within the project limits including a sidewalk across the bridge.
Impact: 
The first stage will consist of building temporary on and off-ramps at I-84 so traffic can be diverted onto the temporary ramps during construction of the permanent ramps. Traffic will then be reduced to two lanes across the bridge structure during demolition and construction of the other half. Lanes will be narrowed to 11-12’ width on State Highway (SH-50). Traffic will be guided through the work zones using barrels and flaggers. Access to the on and off-ramps and the Travelers Oasis will remain open. There will be frequent changes to the traffic pattern so please remain vigilant. During demolition of the bridge, traffic on I-84 will shift back and forth using crossovers and reduced to one lane each direction and reduced speeds will be in effect.
Started:
 April 2023
Expected Completion: 
Summer 2024

I-84: Kasota Interchange to Burley Interchange
County: 
Cassia
Project: 
Westbound construction involves milling off existing roadway surface and replacing with new concrete. Eastbound construction starts 2024.
Impact: 
Westbound traffic will be crossed over to the eastbound lanes while the westbound lanes are closed for construction. Traffic will be reduced to a single lane in each direction with reduced speeds.
Started:
 April 2023
Expected Completion: 
Westbound Spring-Summer 2023

I-84: Declo Port of Entry (POE) Eastbound
County: 
Cassia
Project: 
Construct a new eastbound POE facility.
Impact: 
Most construction of the new facility will occur away from traffic with minor impacts to motorists with shoulder and single lane closures when the on and off-ramps are tied into the interstate. Existing eastbound Cotterel POE will be demolished once new POE is completed.
Started:
 Spring 2022
Expected Completion: 
Fall 2024

SH-46: Big Wood River Bridge
County: 
Gooding
Project: 
Replace Big Wood River Bridge north of Gooding
Impact: 
Traffic will be driving on a gravel surface on the north half of the project until paving can be completed. Reduced speeds are in effect and flaggers will be used to direct traffic through the work zone during working hours.
Started:
 April 2023
Expected Completion: 
June 2023

Intersection East 2000 South: Gooding
County: 
Gooding
Project: 
Widen State Highway (SH-46) and add a left turn lane in each direction.
Impact: 
Single lane closures and reduced speeds with flaggers during construction.
Start:
 June 2023
Expected Completion: 
Late Summer 2023

US-93 & I-84 Interchange Ramps
County: 
Jerome
Project: 
This project involves rehabilitation of the roadway with a mill-and-overlay of eastbound ramps and reconstruction of the westbound ramps.
Impact: 
Lane reductions will be in place and some intermittent closures of the 1-84 on- and off-ramps will occur. Closures are expected at night.
Start:
 Summer 2023
Expected Completion: 
Late Fall 2023

District 4 Seal Coat Pavement Preservation Projects
1. I-84 (milepost 184.34-194.2)
2. US-93: North and Southbound (milepost 57.47 – 59.5)
3. US-93: North and Southbound (milepost 68.83-71.57)
4. US-93: Marley Road to Jim Byrne Slough (milepost 117.5-182.7)
5. US-30 (milepost 253.22-256.97)
6. SH-75: Bellevue to Hailey (milepost 115.6-117.3)
Project: Seal coat preservation begins by applying a thin layer of asphalt/oil and then a cover coat of gravel on the current roadway to seal road cracks, thereby preserving the existing highway surface.
Impact: 
Few impacts to traffic are anticipated. Traffic may be reduced to a single lane with reduced speeds.
Start:
 Early Summer
Expected Completion: 
Late Summer

 

Construction is underway to widen I-84 between South Jerome and Twin Falls interchanges

JEROME – As part of Governor Brad Little’s Leading Idaho Transportation initiative, the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) has begun a project to widen I-84 between the South Jerome Interchange (Exit 168) and the Twin Falls Interchange (Exit 173). Construction begins this week on this 2.5-year project.

I-84 serves as a primary interstate route, and traffic counts are expected to increase substantially over the next 20 years. The existing interstate will not be able to accommodate anticipated future traffic volumes. These improvements will increase capacity and improve safety on I-84 to serve South-central Idaho for years to come.

In 2023, motorists should expect:

  • I-84 will be restricted to one lane in each direction at night. Occasional daytime lane restrictions may be necessary.
    • Rolling closures on I-84 will occur this spring/summer for blasting rock in the median.
  • Traffic shifts will be used throughout construction.
  • The speed limit on I-84 will be reduced.
  • 400 South Road will be closed intermittently.

Funding for this project comes from the Leading Idaho TECM Program. The program allows ITD to address rapid growth and build critical infrastructure today that would otherwise take many years to fund and build. Concrete Placing Company is the contractor for this $92.9 million project.

Construction is anticipated to be completed in late fall of 2025. Those who are interested in learning more about the project are invited to visit the project website at itdprojects.org/84jerometotwin or call (208) 391-3735.

Information in Spanish can be found on the project website or by calling (208) 398-3696.

Idahoans value work zone safety

Cones in truck

The Idaho Transportation Department is joining states across the country for National Work Zone Awareness Week. The national and state campaigns this week are designed to raise awareness and educate the public about the safety measures we can all take in work zones, and how we are all responsible for work zone safety.

From 2017 to 2021, Idaho saw 3,119 crashes in work zones resulting in 36 deaths, stressing the need for this year’s theme: “You play a role in work zone safety. Work with us.”

This special week includes a schedule of activities; everyone is encouraged to go orange for safety on Wednesday and observe a moment of silence on Friday for those who have died in work zones.

“Work zone safety is drivers and highway workers cooperating together to slow down and improve safety,” said Dan McElhinney, Chief Deputy and Chief Operations Officer for ITD. “ITD employees and contractors design traffic control with signs, cones, beacons or reduced speed limits to help guide vehicles through these hazard zones, knowing we really appreciate drivers being engaged without distractions for success. Let’s all get home safely every day.”

Work zone crashes are preventable. The top three causes of crashes from 2017 to 2021 were following too closely, distracted or inattentive driving and failing to yield.

Drivers should:

  • Plan ahead – Check 511.idaho.gov before you go to plan your route. Expect delays, leave early or take an alternate route if possible.
  • Slow down– drive the posted speed limits.
  • Pay attention– both to workers directing you and surrounding traffic.

Other safety tips and videos are available at itd.idaho.gov/travel.

Work Zone Awareness poster 2023

View selected design plans for I-84 Interchanges at Burley and Heyburn

Public meeting

Shoshone – As part of Governor Brad Little’s Leading Idaho Program, the public is invited to learn more about selected design plans for Interstate 84 (I-84) Burley and Heyburn Interchanges (Exits 208 and 211).

The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) will host a public and online meeting to share plans and gather feedback about interchange improvements.

Date: Wednesday, March 1, 2023
Time: 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Location: Burley Hampton Inn
560 Hampton Drive, Heyburn, ID

The public meeting will be hosted in an open house format with members of the project team on hand to gather input and answer questions.

If you are unable to attend the in-person meeting, please participate online where you can review plans and leave a comment 24 hours a day beginning March 2 until March 15, 2023.

To learn more about the project, please visit itdprojects.org/projects/i-84-burley-and-heyburninterchanges. For additional information or questions, please call (208) 387-7012 or email stephanie.borders@hdrinc.com.

Information will also be available about other projects in the area, including the SH-27 Burley to Paul rehabilitation project and the I-84 Kasota to Burley reconstruction project.

The interchange redesign project is being funded as part of Idaho Governor Brad Little’s “Leading Idaho” transportation funding initiative. The Leading Idaho initiative allows ITD to take a deliberate approach to advance large projects that will enhance safety, improve mobility, further strengthen Idaho’s economy, and positively impact the Mini-Cassia region and communities across the state for years to come.

Overnight lane reductions next week on the Perrine Bridge

Image of the Perrine Bridge at night

On Tuesday (Jan. 17) crews will close lanes on the Perrine Bridge to replace luminaire wiring. To help lessen impacts to commuters, work will take place after 9:00 p.m.

“This work is dependent on the weather and may need to be rescheduled if inclement conditions occur,” ITD Project Manager John Keifer stated. “Crews should be able to move quickly, and we anticipate all work being completed in one night.”

While workers are on the bridge, traffic will be reduced to a single lane in each direction.

Motorists are advised to drive engaged and watch for crews and equipment in the area.

 

Eastbound lane closure next week on I-84 near Declo for new POE

Road Work Ahead sign

On Tuesday (Jan. 10), eastbound Interstate 84 will be reduced to one lane between mileposts 217 and 220. This closure will allow workers to relocate concrete barriers closer to the construction zone for the new Port of Entry (POE) facility east of Declo.

“These concrete barriers help create a buffer between vehicles traveling on the interstate and workers,” ITD Project Manager John Keifer said. “They play a key role in helping to safeguard our crews, but it’s important that motorists remember to drive engaged each time they get behind the wheel as well.”

Moving the barriers is expected to be complete in one day. Both westbound lanes will remain open while this work is underway.

The new POE location will facilitate more efficient trucking operations through advanced technology and will meet current federal compliance standards.

Elements of the new facility will include: new on- and off-ramps, support of utility infrastructure, scales with weigh-in-motion and automated vehicle identification technologies, video equipment, luminaries, signage and operations office buildings.

Motorists are advised to slow down, drive engaged and pay attention to signage in the area. Individuals can also check 511.idaho.gov for more information on road conditions and restrictions throughout the state.

Knife River is the general contractor on this project.

Eight snowplows hit this season; ITD calls on drivers to be more cautious

Side-by-side images of a disabled plow on the side of the road.

So far this season across Idaho, drivers have caused eight crashes with snowplows. As more winter weather moves across the state, the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) wants to remind drivers how to be safe around snowplows.

1. Never pass a plow on the right. Plows have a smaller wing plow that extends from the right side of the vehicle, which can be hard to see when the snow is flying. Drivers passing on the right and hitting the wing plow is the most common plow-related crash.
2. Give plows room to work and avoid their blind spots.
3. Be patient. The safest place to be is behind the plow.
4. Plows often work in tandem to clear multiple lanes. Never get in between the tandem plows.
5. If you are involved in a crash or stopped on the side of the road for any reason, please remain in your vehicle for your safety and for the safety of our plow operators.

The seventh and eighth crashes happened today in North Idaho, and both involved tandem plows. This morning on Interstate 90 in Coeur d’Alene, a driver got between two plows as they merged onto the highway. The driver then hit the brakes, forcing the second plow off the road to avoid a collision. Then around lunchtime on U.S. Highway 95 south of Athol, a driver passed the first plow on the left and then struck the second while trying to pass on the right.

Both plows are now out of service for the current storm.

“This issue affects everyone, not just the people involved in the crash. Every plow that is hit causes a domino effect making conditions worse,” said Operations Foreman  Shannon Thornton. “There are fewer plows on the road to deal with the snow that is still falling, and our crews have to spend precious time recovering equipment instead of plowing.”

Last winter, there were 11 plow strikes, an increase from years past and a number that ITD does not want to repeat. Please be careful driving and mindful of our plows. Check 511.idaho.gov or the Idaho 511 App for road conditions before traveling. For more winter driving tips, visit itd.idaho.gov/travel.

*For real-time updates on plow strikes, visit ITD’s Facebook or Twitter pages.

The Dos and Don’ts of driving near snow plows

Plow clearing SH-6 near White Pine Campground

Snow has already fallen in the state, so drivers should get ready to drive with plows this winter. Talking about sharing the road with plows is really more of a discussion on what you shouldn’t do.

What shouldn’t you do?

Don’t pass. The road behind a plow is always better than the road in front of a plow. And all the snow, rock and other debris comes out of a plow at a high rate of speed––if you pass and try to drive through all that, the weight of the snow could force your vehicle off the road or break windows.

Of course, that’s assuming you don’t run into the plow while attempting to pass it.

Plows trucks weigh up to 58,000 pounds and sport not one, but two, plows. Everyone is familiar with the plow on the front, which is 12 feet long and takes up a whole lane. People tend to forget about the second, smaller plow positioned on the right side of the truck. It’s called a wing plow.

That’s the one folks run into. When plows are pushing snow, it comes up over the top of the plow and obscures all the lighting and flags. Again, plows weigh up to 14 times the average vehicle, so running into them is going to have an impact.

While not illegal to pass a plow, it’s recommended you never do so on the right side because of the wing plow. Law enforcement can and will cite drivers who act recklessly or carelessly and pass when it isn’t safe.

Operators will often work in pairs, especially on multi-lane roadways like freeways, to get snow pulled from the far left side all the way to the shoulder. Don’t try to pass several plows at once or drive between them.

Plows are large vehicles with blind spots, even when not working in blizzard conditions or pushing snow. Stay out of their blind spots.

If you’re going to pass, it’s important to consider where the snow is going. Our drivers typically push snow to the right, but in some cases, they will push snow into the median.

Sometimes there isn’t room to push snow into the median, or there aren’t enough operators available to tandem plow. You may see a plow working by itself on a freeway, pushing snow into the fast lane on the first lap and then moving it all the way off the roadway on a second pass. There may be enough room to pass safely on the right – but first slow down and observe where the snow coming out of the plow lands on the road before you make your decision.

When in doubt, don’t pass.

What should you do?

  • Drive for conditions. The posted speed limit is set based on ideal conditions, so in winter you’ll have to slow down. It’s on the driver to determine a safe speed.
  • Maintain at least a three-second following distance. On slick roads, you’ll need more time to react and stop if necessary.
  • Move over. Any time emergency vehicles—which include tow trucks—are flashing their lights, you are legally required to slow down and move over into another lane if possible.
  • Leave early. Giving yourself extra time will make it that much easier to make smart decisions.
  • Download 511. No need to guess what your route looks like – download the 511 app or visit 511.idaho.gov to see road conditions and if there are any reported crashes.

As you head out on the road this winter, keep these safety tips in mind so that you and our plow drivers can make it home safely.

Lighting upgrades next Thursday night to close lanes on the Perrine Bridge

Image of the Perrine Bridge at night

Next Thursday night (Nov. 17), crews will close lanes on the Perrine Bridge to replace overhead lighting. To help lessen impacts to commuters, work will take place after 9:00 p.m.

Work is part of a larger project that is addressing important structures and sections of the highway system throughout the region.

“These new luminaires have an improved design that will extend their life expectancy,” ITD Project Manager John Keifer stated. “We are upgrading multiple lights this year and will continue to address other areas in South-central Idaho with future projects.”

Click here for a photo of the bridge.

While crews are on site, traffic will be reduced to a single lane in either direction.

“We anticipate crews will be able to complete all of the work in one night,” Keifer said.

Motorists are advised to drive engaged and watch for crews and equipment in the area.