Bulldozing Through COVID

Even during these challenging and uncertain times, the world of construction just keeps on pushing forward. While construction continues to ramp up, the number of qualified people in the industry is dwindling — but not for long.

Through partnerships between the Idaho Transportation Department, Baker Technical Institute, Idaho Rural Water Association, and the Federal Highway Administration, 20 men and women will be certified to operate select heavy equipment on Idaho construction projects.

“Students will enter the workforce with certifications in Heavy Equipment Operation, and Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response. They will also receive fork lift training and OSHA-10 certification,” said Jessika Phillips of the Idaho Transportation Department’s Office of Civil Rights.

The class started on September 14 and runs through October 16. At the conclusion of the course, a “Field Day” will be held to showcase the skills these students have learned to potential employers, on five different pieces of heavy construction equipment. Media is invited on October 6, and potential employers the following day, October 7.

“This is just another of the many ways the Federal Highway Administration works with its Idaho partners to grow the specialized talent we need to keep America’s roads and bridges safe. The most important investment we can make in our nation’s highway system is in the people entrusted to protect it,” said Michael Caliendo with the Federal Highway Administration.

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WHAT: Heavy Equipment Operator Combine
WHEN: Media – October 6, 2020 @10 a.m.
Employers – October 7, 2020 @ 10 a.m.
WHERE: I-84 Exit 64. One mile north on Black Creek Road. Turn left at Premier Aggregate and follow the road to the end.

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Questions should be addressed to ITD’s Jessika Phillips at 208-334-8152 or Jessika.Phillips@itd.idaho.gov and Doug Dalton of Baker Technical Institute (the firm doing the instruction) at 208-861-2749 or Doug.Dalton@bakersd.org

Report shows significant reduction in human-caused fires along I-84 even as traffic increases

BLM crews conduct a prescribed burn along ID-51

As historic catastrophic wildfires ravage the coastal states, a new report from the Bureau of Land Management is showing positive results of a fuel reduction program along Interstate 84 in southwest Idaho, a partnership between BLM and the Idaho Transportation Department.

*ITD crews mow alongside U.S. 20 in Elmore County*

The fuel reduction program began in 2013. Since that time, fires along the interstate have decreased in size by 95%. During that same time, the amount of traffic has increased by 30%. You can read the report on BLM’s website here.

The program involved BLM identifying critical areas for vegetation growth alongside I-84 between Boise and Mountain Home. Working with ITD maintenance crews, these areas are treated with various methods. In some locations, additional gravel is placed beside the shoulder to lengthen the distance between fuels and potential fire starts from vehicles. ITD maintenance crews will mow alongside highways to reduce available fuel. In some instances, BLM crews will conduct controlled burns to eliminate built-up vegetation. The video below captures this work.

“The partnership with BLM has been very good for the traveling public,” said Carl Vaughn, ITD foreman out of Mountain Home. “We’ve seen few fires along I-84, which means fewer road closures. We’ve knocked down barriers between the federal agency and our own to the benefit of the people we’re here to serve.”

You can do your part to prevent human caused wildfires along the roadway. Before you leave on your next trip, check beneath your vehicle and make sure nothing is dragging close to the ground. If towing, ensure safety chains are not dragging. Don’t park your vehicle in tall or dry grass, where contact with a hot part can cause a fire start. For more safety tips, visit idahofireinfo.com.

Blasting and road closures begin on ID-55 Smiths Ferry project

The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) starts the blasting portion of the Idaho Highway 55 Smiths Ferry project Monday, September 21.

Drivers can anticipate the fall road closure schedule of Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to begin Monday. If motorists need to travel during this time frame, they are encouraged to plan around this schedule or use US-95. These closures will continue through mid-November when construction will pause for the winter months.

Crews will work during the closures to safely blast and remove rock from the canyon to widen the roadway between Smiths Ferry and the Rainbow Bridge. Large equipment, including steel containers and temporary barrier to prevent falling rock from entering the travel lane, and protect the crews working next to traffic in the narrow work zone, will fill one lane. As a result, drivers can expect one-way, alternating traffic when blasts are not being conducted. Motorists can find additional details on ITD’s project website.

“For the safety of our crews and travelers, please plan for the road to be closed every Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. until this winter when construction will pause,” Vince Trimboli, ITD Communications Manager said. “We appreciate the public’s patience during the project as we make these much needed safety improvements.”

As a reminder, seasonal closures and traffic patterns will be as follows:

Fall (September – November): One-way alternating traffic; daytime and nighttime work, seven days a week; full road closures Monday – Thursday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Winter (December – Mid-March): No construction expected; all lanes open
Spring (Mid-March – Mid-May): One-way alternating traffic; daytime and nighttime work, seven days a week; full road closures Monday – Thursday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Summer (Mid-May – August): One-way alternating traffic; daytime and nighttime work, Monday – Friday

The project is expected to be completed by late fall 2022. Motorists are encouraged to sign up for text and email alerts to get the most up-to-date information on the project.

In the event of an emergency, ITD and emergency service providers have a system in place to allow vehicles through the work zone so they can transport patients or respond to other emergencies in a safe, timely manner.

Nez Perce Tribe awarded $19.1 million BUILD grant to support construction of Aht’Wy interchange

Rendering of the interchange planned for the east entrance of the Aht'Wy Plaza and Clearwater River Casino

On September 16, 2020, the Nez Perce Tribe (Tribe) was awarded a $19,134,710 grant by the US Department of Transportation (USDOT) through the Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Transportation Discretionary Grants program to support the rebuild of the Aht’Wy Interchange (Project). The Project is located on US 95/12, approximately 6 miles east of Lewiston, Idaho; an area which has been recognized as one of Idaho’s most dangerous stretches of road.

“This is great news during what are difficult times for all of us here in the region. We believe this project will benefit everyone and have a positive impact on the economy of the Lewiston-Clarkston valley,” stated Nez Perce Tribal Executive Committee Chairman, Shannon Wheeler. “We would like to express our gratitude to MaryBeth Frank-Clark who has worked tirelessly to make this project possible. We would also like to thank U.S. Senators Jim Risch and Mike Crapo, Congressman Russ Fulcher, Governor Brad Little and State Senator Dan Johnson for their tremendous support of the project,” continued Wheeler.

This Project, in development since 1998, is designed to address the findings of an Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) Traffic Impact Study which identified the need for certain roadway improvements in the area. Over the last 11 years, the Tribe has spent over $2 million of their Tribal Transportation Program funds on the Project.

The Project will include construction of a diamond-shaped interchange and replacement of the current at-grade intersection with an overpass to access the plaza, on the east entrance. There will also be additions of deceleration and acceleration ramps for eastbound traffic. Additionally, a broadband conduit and pedestrian walkway will be included. The anticipated cost of the entire Project is $20,141,800; with the difference being funded by the Tribe.

“This interchange will be a welcomed addition to the infrastructure, not only here locally but statewide as many people throughout the region travel this route. We are pleased to hear of the Nez Perce Tribe’s success in obtaining this funding and appreciate our continued, strong working relationship,” stated ITD District Engineer, Doral Hoff.

The final plans, specifications, and estimates (PS&Es) are expected to be completed within four to six months. It is anticipated that the Project will be sent out for bids in approximately 12 months. Once construction begins, following an approved bid, the Project is estimated to take 12-18 months to complete construction.

Some benefits of the Project include reduced delays experienced by the local transit system and improved access to Clearwater River tourist areas and major employment centers. It will also improve the efficiency and safety of freight movement, especially for the agricultural and logging industries.

“The Aht’Wy Interchange Project has been in the works for some time and we are thrilled to finally move toward completion of this vital project,” stated Nez Perce Tribe Transportation Manager, MaryBeth Frank-Clark. “I would like to express my gratitude to the US Department of Transportation and all of those who have supported the effort to make this project a reality. I would specifically like to recognize the former Nez Perce Tribe Executive Director, Rebecca Miles; JUB Engineer Aht’Wy Interchange Project Manager, John Watson; the Bureau of Indian Affairs Northwest Regional Office of DOT; ITD District 2, Doral Hoff and Ken Helm; the Nez Perce Tribe Office of Legal Counsel; Nez Perce Tribe Wildlife Program; Nez Perce Tribe Cultural Resources Program; and the Nez Perce Tribal Executive Committee for their work on the effort.”

Updates on the Aht’Wy Interchange Project can be found by visiting itdprojects.org/ahtwyinterchange.

Additional lanes on ChindenWest Corridor complete from Idaho 16 to Linder Road, work to the east progresses

ChindenWest looking west with completed roadway

The Idaho Transportation Department has opened four lanes of Chinden Boulevard from Idaho Highway 16 to Linder Road to traffic, marking a major milestone in the ChindenWest Corridor project.

The widening of this section of Chinden Boulevard from two lanes to four began this spring. It will ensure the safety and mobility of the traveling public ahead of new development in the area. The new roadway includes four 12-foot travel lanes, two in each direction, and a detached 10-foot pathway to the south for bicyclists and pedestrians.

“Credit for this project’s success goes to the great partnership of everyone involved,” said Jayme Coonce, Engineering Manager for ITD District 3. “To reach this milestone, we needed the hard work and support from the City of Meridian, the developer, the Ada County Highway District, and our contractor, Idaho Materials and Construction.”

As this three mile section reopens to typical highway conditions, Locust Grove to Eagle Road prepares for a significant traffic shift, beginning Sept. 21, that will eliminate one through lane, both east and westbound, at the Eagle intersection (see graphic below).

“At the east end of the ChindenWest corridor, paving operations will be occurring between Locust Grove and Eagle Road,” said Michael Lucas, ITD’s project manager for this section. “The necessary lane shift may result in increased congestion during peak drive times. We encourage motorists to consider alternate routes when possible and appreciate everyone’s patience.”

The two-mile segment between Linder Road and Locust Grove Road is underway with the most significant construction activities scheduled for 2021.

The ChindenWest Corridor is a vital east-west connection in the heart of the Treasure Valley. The construction will add travel lanes, widen shoulders, and build a separated path parallel to the roadway.

The project website, ITDprojects.org/ChindenWest, serves as a hub of information for the public, including videos that provide a window into the future. The one-stop-shop website includes detailed information about construction activities, anticipated traffic impacts, and the improvement designs.

Westbound I-84 on-ramp closure expected next week at Exit 168 in Jerome County

Work is expected to begin next Monday (Sept. 21) on the Interstate 84 westbound on-ramp for Exit 168. This is part of the interstate rehabilitation project that has been underway since May of this year to provide a safer and smoother ride for motorists.

The Exit 168 westbound on-ramp will be closed while crews work on three drainage pipes in the area. Motorists will need to use Exit 165 to access westbound lanes on the interstate.

Message boards and traffic control will be in place to direct drivers. Work is expected to be completed by the end of the week.

“We are nearing the completion of storm water pipework for this project,” said ITD South-central Idaho Project Manager Brock Dillé. “After this is complete, we will begin paving the newly constructed westbound lanes.”

Rehabilitation of the westbound lanes is expected to be complete by the end of this year. Work on the eastbound lanes will begin in the spring of 2021.

The general contractor is Western Construction of Boise.

Perrine Bridge inspection to take place next week near Twin Falls

Image of the Perrine Bridge near Twin Falls

Dependent on weather, drivers can expect lane restrictions and possible delays near Twin Falls next week as crews from the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) perform routine bi-annual inspections on the Perrine Bridge.

From Monday, September 14 through Friday, September 18 crews will walk the arch and deploy ITD’s under-bridge inspection truck along the bridge deck.

Traffic will be reduced to one lane in either direction while crew members are utilizing the inspection truck. Work will occur at non-peak hours to help lessen traffic congestion through the area and is expected to following the below schedule:

– Northbound Right Lane Closure: Monday – Tuesday, 8:15 am to 3 pm
– Southbound Right Lane Closure: Wednesday – Thursday, 9 am to 3 pm

Short duration (15 minute) single lane closures will also occur each day in the left northbound lane when workers access and exit the lower half of the structure.

Motorists may consider using an alternate route between the hours listed above.

Drivers are urged to exercise caution near the work zone and watch for crew members and equipment. ITD appreciates the patience and cooperation of those driving through the area.

Paving to start again next week near Blue Creek Bay on Interstate 90

Photo of contractors redoing the driving surface on the westbound bridge over Blue Creek Bay

Starting Tuesday, September 8, work to resurface the interstate from Blue Creek Bay to the bottom of the Fourth of July Pass will once again extend the existing work zone at the bridges over the bay.

Only the westbound lanes will be repaved as the eastbound lanes were finished in June.

“The pavement on this section of I-90 is in poor condition,” said Kyle Schrader, the project manager for paving. “We were able to shift some tasks to nighttime hours and get the ramps done, so this time drivers will only need to plan for a longer work zone and not ramp closures.”

The paving project is expected to last two weeks, and crews on the bridge project will be working to install temporary joints and finish the driving surface until late September.

“We know construction has impacted many travelers on their way to the river or lake, so we’d like to let everyone know that we are in the final stages of work planned for this year,” said Ryan Hawkins, the project manager for the bridge repairs.

A follow-up project to replace the temporary joints with permanent joints has not been programmed yet but is expected in the next few years.

Signal damaged at Idaho Highway 41 and Prairie Avenue intersection, causing considerable congestion

Photo of the damaged signal at ID-41 and Prairie

The signal at Idaho Highway 41 and Prairie Avenue has been damaged by a crash and is no longer functional. Crews are on site to flag the intersection and assess the damage.

Drivers should seek alternate routes and check 511.idaho.gov for updates.

Changes to be made to US-95 signals in CDA and Hayden tonight

As part of ongoing work to enhance safety and traffic flow on US-95 in Coeur d’Alene and Hayden, several changes to traffic signals will be made this week.

The medians at Canfield Avenue and Wilbur Avenue will be closed tonight after 7 p.m. as crews take down the Canfield Avenue signal and turn on the Wilbur Avenue signal.

“These changes will help with the flow of traffic by creating consistent spacing between signals,” Project Manager Carrie Ann Hewitt said. “Currently, the signals are spaced too closely, causing issues when traffic at one intersection backs up into the next.”

Radar detection devices at the Wilbur Avenue signal will be installed tomorrow, and the signal will be connected with others in the corridor next week.

“Until those final connections are made and drivers adjust to the new configuration, delays should be expected on this route,” Hewitt said.

The median at Canfield Avenue will remain closed for the next two weeks as curbing is constructed to prevent drivers on the side street from turning left on to the highway or crossing it. Drivers may make these movements at other signalized intersections, usually about one-quarter mile away.

Before construction ends in late September, a new signal at Miles Avenue will be installed, and turn lanes at Hanley Avenue will be removed and repaved to meet quality specifications.

“Combined with the additional turn lanes and access modifications that are also part of this project, these changes will save time for thousands of drivers who use the highway every day,” Hewitt said.