Limited re-opening expected tomorrow for I-15 near Blackfoot

Damaged bridge with a backhoe working in the foreground.

Staff with the Idaho Transportation Department have been assessing damage to the Riverton Road Bridge over Interstate 15 following a major crash last night that has caused all traffic to be detoured to U.S. Highway 91 between Exit 89 and Exit 93. Crews are working to temporarily shore up the bridge to allow traffic to be diverted back to the freeway by mid-morning Saturday while plans for long-term repairs are developed.

Once traffic is shifted, drivers will only have one lane in each direction and will travel at reduced speeds on the northbound set of lanes.

The bridge suffered structural damage necessitating the immediate closure of the interstate for the safety of all drivers. At this time the extent, cost and timeline of repairs are unknown.

“We have been working around the clock to restore the flow of traffic,” District Engineer Todd Hubbard said. “Early next week, we hope to have traffic restored to proper lanes, southbound I-15 will be reduced to one lane until a permanent fix can be made.”

Travelers should expect delays due to reduced lanes and heavy freeway traffic. Motorists are encouraged to check 511.idaho.gov for the latest traffic information.

SH-16 to fully close this weekend between SH-44 and US-20/26

Aerial view of an active highway construction site with multiple excavators, loaders, and work trucks operating on a large dirt area. Crews wearing safety vests work near a newly installed concrete box culvert. Construction materials, trailers, and equipment are scattered around the site. In the background, vehicles travel along a nearby highway, and autumn-colored trees and residential buildings border the work zone under clear blue skies.

State Highway 16 will be fully closed south of State Highway 44 the weekend of Nov. 7-10 as the Idaho Transportation Department installs a drainage structure underneath the highway. SH-16 will be closed between SH-44 and US-20/26. Traffic will be detoured to Star and Linder Roads.

Closures will begin at 9 p.m. Nov. 7 and will end at 5 a.m. Nov. 10. Work will result in significant noise during this time.

Crews will install a drainage structure, also called a box culvert, underneath SH-16. The structure will be 495 feet long and comprised of 86 individual pieces, each measuring 8 feet wide by 6 feet tall and weighing an average of 22,500 pounds.

The culvert is being installed as part of the work on the future SH-16/SH-44 Interchange, which will connect SH-16 to Interstate 84. The new SH-16 corridor is on track to open in 2027.

Motorists are encouraged to text HIGHWAY16 to 1-866-483-8422 for email or text alerts. For maps and details about the project, please visit itdprojects.idaho.gov/pages/sh16corridor.

I-90 striping work to impact eastbound traffic on Sunday

COEUR D’ALENE – Drivers should plan for delays this Sunday on eastbound Interstate 90 between Post Falls and Coeur d’Alene as crews complete striping in the work zone to expand the freeway to four lanes. Work will begin around 7 a.m., with traffic reduced to one lane and the speed limit lowered to 45 mph throughout the day.

“This is one of the last weather-dependent tasks we have to complete before winter, and this weekend just might be our last chance to do it with the conditions needed,” Project Manager Tom Trutter said. “We’re doing it Sunday when traffic is lighter, but congestion is still expected so we’re asking drivers to plan extra time and be patient through the work zone.”

Due to the temperatures needed for the paint to dry properly, this work cannot be done overnight.

In addition to this work, new variable speed limit signs will soon be activated along the I-90 corridor during the expansion project. These digital signs allow ITD to adjust posted speeds for safety when crews are working close to traffic. As a reminder, drivers are required to follow the posted speed limit at all times and should not rely on in-car navigation systems or GPS devices through the work zone, as they may differ from the posted speed.

This five-mile stretch of I- 90 from State Highway 41 to U.S. Highway 95 is the most heavily traveled and congested area in the corridor. This is the first construction project to advance from the I-90 Corridor Study from SH-41 to 15th Street to enhance safety and add capacity to support future traffic volumes.

Construction began in August of 2025 and is expected to be complete in 2029.

To stay informed about project updates, impacts and milestones, drivers can sign up for email and text updates at I-90 Widening: SH-41 to US-95 | ITD Projects.

ITD helps county snowplow operators prepare for winter

A person wearing a high-visibility yellow jacket leans over the shoulder of another person seated at a driving simulator. The simulator screens display a snowy road scene as the standing person provides instruction or guidance.

Ada County Highway District and Boise County Road and Bridge snowplow drivers heading into their first winter got to prepare for dealing with snow the season, thanks to ITD’s snowplow simulator.

When ACHD reached out to ask if their crews could train on the simulator, District 3 didn’t hesitate. A handful of employees loaded up the simulator and spent two days walking new plow operators and staff through what it’s really like out there during a storm.

The simulator creates less than ideal driving scenarios, allowing drivers to practice in advance, including navigating heavy traffic, dealing with cars not giving way, and facing white-out conditions. For rookies preparing for their first winter shift, that experience goes a long way toward confidence and safety.

But the day wasn’t all screens and simulations. ACHD’s new operators also got the chance to pick the brain of a few experienced ITD snowplow operators, the kind who have seen a few winters and lived to tell the tale.

District 3 Trainer Jared Gibson said the partnership made sense on multiple levels.

“We already coordinate closely with ACHD every day. This was another chance to connect. Our roads are an ecosystem and keeping them safe is a shared responsibility. We’re all better when we work together,” he said.

ITD crews left feeling proud, not only for helping fellow operators gain valuable skills, but for strengthening the relationship with a key partner who keeps Ada County moving.

A junior snowplow driver gains experience on ITDs snowplow simulator.

I-90 ramp closure near Cataldo to cause multi-week detour

Aerial view of the eastbound I-90 bridge under construction.

The Idaho Transportation Department advises motorists of an upcoming closure of the eastbound off-ramp on Interstate 90 at Cataldo scheduled to begin Monday. The closure is part of the ongoing bridge replacement project and is expected to last at least three weeks, depending on weather and construction progress.

During this time, eastbound drivers will not be able to exit at Cataldo. Travelers should use the Kingston Exit and return on I-90 westbound to access Cataldo.

The closure will allow crews to remove a temporary ramp and repave portions of I-90 and the existing ramp area needed to shift both lanes of eastbound traffic onto the new bridge for winter.

“We need a short window of decent weather to pave and stripe before winter conditions set in,” Project Manager Megan Koski said. “Our goal is to open the new eastbound bridge to traffic before Thanksgiving, but that will largely depend on how the weather cooperates.”

Because the eastbound off-ramp is part of the detour route for the adjacent Canyon Road Bridge replacement by the East Side Highway District, drivers in the area should expect an updated detour and follow locally posted signs. Questions specifically regarding the Canyon Road Bridge replacement should be directed to the East Side Highway District.

This closure is necessary to ensure safe travel through the work zone during the upcoming winter season. ITD appreciates the public’s patience, and safe driving, as crews complete this important milestone.

Depending on winter conditions, there may be work that is able to be accomplished through the snowy months that will set the stage for the next phase of construction. Drivers may expect to see short duration work zones set up through the area, including the possibility for intermittent single lane closures. Next spring large-scale work will begin to repeat the process of demolition and replacement of the westbound bridge to complete this project.

For the most up-to-date information on road conditions and traffic impacts statewide, visit 511.idaho.gov, download the Idaho 511 app, or call 511.

Priest River community invited to open house for US-2 bridge replacement

Side view of the existing Priest River Bridge on US-2.

The Idaho Transportation Department invites the public to attend an open house to learn about and comment on plans to replace the Priest River Bridge on U.S. Highway 2 next Thursday.

Originally built in 1962, the bridge remains open to traffic but is reaching the end of its expected service life. The foundation is in poor condition and no longer meets modern design standards, making it functionally obsolete and due for full replacement.

At this event, the community can learn about the project’s goals and objectives, review the different replacement design options being considered, ask questions and offer feedback while the project is still in the design phase. All comments gathered during the open house will help shape the final design of the future new Priest River Bridge.

“We make a point to engage the community early enough in design that public feedback can truly make a difference,” Project Manager Randy Durland said. “We know not everyone will have the same vision for the bridge, but hearing from a wide range of voices helps us deliver something that fits Priest River and its people.”

The project, located just east of the city of Priest River, will replace the existing bridge, improve traffic flow, and provide pedestrian access over the river. Construction is currently scheduled to begin in2029-2030 and could last for up to two years, depending on the chosen alternative design.

November Open House
Date: November 6
Time: 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Location: Priest River Event Center, 5399 US-2 Priest River, Idaho

The meeting will be held in an open-house style so people can drop in anytime. This event is open to everyone, including families.

Those who cannot attend in person can review identical information online at https://itdprojects.idaho.gov/pages/us2-priest-river-bridge-replacement and provide feedback during the official public comment period, open November 6-21, 2025.

Nighttime I-84 eastbound closures at Gowen Interchange Sunday night for bridge repairs

Graphic map showing I-84 interchange with local road. The area of I-84 over the road is highlighted indicating the construction area.

The Idaho Transportation Department will close eastbound Interstate 84 before Exit 57 (State Highway 21/Gowen Road) nightly from 7:30 p.m. to 4 a.m. Sunday through early Wednesday to complete ongoing bridge repairs.

After Wednesday repairs are expected to be complete for the season. Crews will continue to monitor pavement and joint performance throughout the winter.

Crews will pave bridge shoulders and finish joint repairs that began in August. This work will smooth out bumps and improve the transition at the beginning and edge of the bridge.

During the work, all eastbound traffic must exit at Exit 57 and reenter I-84 using the eastbound on-ramp at the same location. Minor delays are expected.

Drivers should plan ahead, follow signs through the work zone, and watch for crews and equipment operating near traffic.

For real-time traffic updates and travel information, visit 511.idaho.gov or use the Idaho 511 app.

Popular ITD and ISP free winter driving classes across eastern Idaho start next week

PR East Idaho Free Winter Driving classes roadside view of icy road with a pickup and snowplow in the distance

Winter travel in Eastern Idaho means more than just tossing on a jacket before you go. The Idaho Transportation Department is teaming up again with Idaho State Police to offer free winter driving safety classes to help Eastern Idaho drivers be prepared for the reality that snow and ice changes everything.

Registration is now open for these popular, helpful sessions at the following places and dates:

IDAHO FALLS

Wednesday, November 5 @ 7 p.m.

Rocky Mountain Middle School, 3443 N Ammon Rd

REXBURG

Wednesday, November 12 @ 3 p.m. and 6 p.m.

BYU-Idaho Little Theater, Manwaring Center, 101 E Viking Street

No registration needed

POCATELLO

Tuesday, November 18 @ 5:30 p.m.

Chubbuck City Hall, 290 E Linden Ave.

RIGBY

Wednesday, December 3 @ 7 p.m.

ITD District 6 Office, 206 North Yellowstone

The classes are designed to help drivers prepare for Idaho’s winter conditions by covering topics like vehicle readiness, proper equipment, defensive driving techniques, and how to safely share the road with snowplows. Instructors include state troopers and ITD operators who bring firsthand experience from years of working on Idaho’s roads and responding to emergencies during severe weather.

While these classes are open to everyone of all ages and skill levels, they are especially valuable for:

Young drivers with limited winter driving experience
New drivers, including those preparing to start driver’s education in the next year
New residents facing their first Idaho winter

Participants who complete a class will receive a coupon for 10 percent off a new set of tires at any Les Schwab Tires location in Eastern Idaho from American Falls to St. Anthony. ITD and ISP extend a special thank you to Les Schwab for their partnership.

More information and direct links to these classes can be found on ITD’s website Travel page, itd.idaho.gov/travel.

ITD seeks public feedback to help shape the future of rail in Idaho

UPDATE: Some users are reporting issues submitting their responses and being unable to proceed past the second page. We recommend that respondents hit the next button at the bottom more than once. If that doesn’t work, we encourage users to sign up to receive a different format of the survey, which will be available the week of Nov. 3. We are working to resolve any technical issues in the meantime.

The Idaho Transportation Department is updating the Idaho Statewide Rail Plan and is asking for public input to help guide the future of rail infrastructure across the state.

The plan evaluates the current condition and performance of Idaho’s rail network, identifies system-wide challenges and opportunities, and outlines strategies to strengthen rail infrastructure. The plan will also explore key topics such as rail safety, grade crossings, and access for rail-served industries that help drive Idaho’s economy.

Unlike other statewide transportation plans, this plan does not allocate funding for specific projects. Instead, it provides a strategic foundation that supports future grant applications and coordination with the Federal Railroad Administration and other partners.

“We want to hear from Idaho communities about how rail infrastructure is working today and what improvements would make the biggest difference in the future,” Freight Program Manager Caleb Forrey said. “Your feedback will help us better understand statewide priorities and shape a plan that reflects Idaho’s needs.”

Railways in Idaho are operated by the private sector, with ITD having shared responsibility for safety at highway-rail crossings. As is the case with public transportation in Idaho, there are no dedicated state funding sources for freight or passenger rail beyond match funds for federally-funded improvements to rail crossings.

The online survey is open through November 12 and takes about five minutes to complete. Feedback collected will be summarized in the final plan, which is expected to be released in spring 2026, and used to guide discussions with communities, railroads, and state and federal partners.

A summary of the rail plan is available at itd.idaho.gov/planning.

Abandoned overpass transforms into wildlife crossing near Osburn

A once-abandoned bridge in Osburn is seeing new life, at least for now, thanks to a creative partnership between local residents, conservation groups, and state agencies, including the Idaho Transportation Department.

The structure, a former overpass across Interstate 90, sat unused for decades after nearby mining development closed off the roadway it once served. The surrounding area, however, remained a busy wildlife corridor. For years, elk, deer, and other animals have been struck trying to cross the freeway in that area, which has one of the highest wildlife collision rates on the interstate between Coeur d’Alene and Montana.

That concern led Osburn resident and truck driver Carl Wilson to champion a community effort to turn the unused bridge into a wildlife overpass. Working with partners including the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and several local conservation groups, the community secured grant funding to retrofit the structure with fencing to guide animals safely across the interstate via the abandoned bridge.

While ITD’s role in the project was limited, the agency provided crucial support behind the scenes by granting the necessary permits and helping connect the group with funding resources. A few key staff members in District 1, including former Assistant District Engineer Marvin Fenn and Program Manager Robert Beachler, were instrumental in helping guide the effort to fruition.

“This project really showcases how creative thinking and collaboration can make use of existing infrastructure in new ways,” Beachler said. “It was great to see local initiative and partnerships come together to improve safety for both wildlife and drivers.”

The refurbished bridge officially opened for wildlife use this summer and early reports from Fish and Game trail cameras show whitetail deer already using it, and a nearby underpass, to safely traverse the interstate.

The bridge’s future is limited, but ITD is happy to support the community in putting it to good use for now. Since it no longer serves a transportation purpose and remains ITD-owned, the bridge is scheduled for removal in 2032 as it ages.

“Even temporary or short-term solutions can have meaningful benefits,” said District Engineer Damon Allen. “This project reflects the kind of local collaboration and problem-solving we appreciate being a part of.”