The Idaho Transportation Department is asking for input on the just–released draft Idaho Transportation Improvement Program (ITIP). The 2021-2027 draft ITIP is a seven-year plan of the state’s transportation improvements, and all stakeholders are encouraged to participate.
Projects can range from large-scale interstate improvements to smaller projects like the installation of a new guardrail. In all, the draft ITIP includes projects in all 44 counties and all modes of transportation. Projects were selected based on technical data, as well as input from local officials and residents.
A complete breakdown of the draft plan can be found at itd.idaho.gov/funding, as well as an interactive map that allows users to learn about projects by narrowing it down to specific categories and locations.
A few of the major projects in North Idaho include:
- – A study in 2021 to develop an environmental document to identify impacts for future I-90 expansion
- – The addition of a third westbound lane on I-90 between Atlas Road and Government Way and on the Northwest Boulevard exit in 2027
- –A study in 2021 to identify optimal locations for wildlife crossings on US-95 between Grnaite Hill and Sandpoint
- – Several turn lanes on US-95 in 2027 at Mountain Meadows north of Naples, Kootenai Trail/Cabinet Mountain south of Bonners Ferry, West Elmira Road in Elmira and Conkling Road south of Worley
- – Turn lanes and lighting at Idaho Highway 41 and Spirit Bend in Spirit Lake in 2027
- – Flashing beacon at Idaho Highway 53 and Atlas Road east of Rathdrum in 2027
Comments will be taken from July 1-31 and can be e-mailed to ITDcommunication@itd.idaho.gov or mailed to:
ITIP – Comments
Attn: Aubrie Spence
P.O. Box 7129
Boise, ID 83707
Paper copies of the ITIP will be provided upon request by contacting Aubrie at (208) 334-8119.
All comments will be reviewed, incorporated into the ITIP where appropriate, and responses will be sent in August once the comment period has ended.
After approval by the Idaho Transportation Board in September, the ITIP will then be submitted to the Federal Highway Administration, the Federal Transit Administration, and the Environmental Protection Agency in October.