As Idaho’s population continues to grow, the strain on its mountainous highways becomes increasingly apparent during the summer months, particularly at the intersection of State Highway 55 and Banks Lowman Road. To tackle this, the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) is implementing short-term measures while working on a long-term solution.
ITD is advancing a plan to install an interim traffic signal this year at the SH-55, Banks Lowman Road intersection. Currently, the project team is engaged in material testing, environmental work, site design and stakeholder collaboration.
In tandem with the temporary signal, ITD will begin designing a comprehensive intersection plan during the next few years. The design process will include bridge widening and road expansion to accommodate a final signal for increasing traffic demands. There is currently no funding for construction.
Until the interim signal is operational later this year, flagging at the intersection will occur during peak travel periods this summer beginning on Father’s Day. The 2024 flagging season is as follows:
- Father’s Day
- All Sundays in July
- First Sunday in August
- Second Sunday in August
- Labor Day
ITD encourages those who travel on the weekends along this corridor to always plan ahead. Consider leaving earlier or later to avoid the heaviest travel times and make sure to check 511.idaho.gov before you go.