AMERICAN FALLS – The Idaho Transportation Department has invited members of the community to review plans for a new roundabout at the intersection of Pocatello Avenue (I-86B) and State Highway 39 at an open house on Thursday, Aug. 1.
The drop-in event will run from 4 to 7 p.m. at the American Falls District Library (308 Roosevelt St.).
In response to concerns about safety and operations, ITD considered many alternatives for improving the intersection. Each alternative was evaluated based on factors such as cost, traffic capacity, delays, safety, right-of-way needs and community input.
Community members were invited to give comments at a series of workshops in 2018.
“We would like to thank every person who participated in the design process,” said ITD Engineering Manager Dan Harelson. “We received valuable input that helped us ensure the new intersection will serve both commercial and local traffic.”
The new roundabout will allow a continuous flow of traffic without requiring drivers to wait for a light or a stop sign. A video of a similarly sized roundabout, as well as background materials about this project, is available at https://itdprojects.org/pocatelloave_i86b.
Construction is expected to begin in 2022.