SH-75 project identified for further funding

Today at its regular monthly meeting the Idaho Transportation Board accepted staff recommendations on priority corridors across Idaho using TECM funds to address congestion, including State Highway 75 north of Hailey. Since Transportation Expansion and Congestion Mitigation funds were first used by the department for bonding and advancing major projects in 2022, ITD has delivered timely construction of expansion projects across the state. Today’s actions are a continuation of that.

Funding came from House Bill 25, which was passed by the Idaho Legislature earlier this year. The legislation provides an additional $20 million a year to the Transportation Expansion and Congestion Mitigation fund for the next three years and allows the department to invest an extra $1 billion in the Idaho transportation system.

With this new funding, SH-75 from McKercher Boulevard to Broadway Run has been recommended for advanced construction. This project will add capacity by widening the road to two lanes in each direction. Safety will be enhanced with a continuous center turn lane and pedestrian/transit improvements. Construction is anticipated to start in 2026, one year earlier than planned.

With this project now included in the draft Idaho Transportation Investment Program (ITIP), the public will have the opportunity to give feedback on this project and the department’s full list of planned projects from 2026-2032 during the annual comment period in July. Then the draft ITIP will be presented to the board for approval in September.

The board’s action today reflects continued investment targeting congestion and capacity in major corridors that were previously funded by TECM bonds as authorized by the Idaho Legislature. In South-central Idaho, TECM funds are funding the widening of I-84 from Jerome to Twin Falls, and full reconstruction of the Burley and Heyburn Interchanges.

This project and others were identified because they are existing high-priority corridor needs that will improve traffic flow and increase safety.

US-95 Spalding Bridge identified for further funding

Today at its regular monthly meeting the Idaho Transportation Board accepted staff recommendations on priority corridors across Idaho using TECM funds to address congestion, including the Spalding Bridge on U.S. Highway 95 east of Lewiston. Since Transportation Expansion and Congestion Mitigation funds were first used by the department for bonding and advancing major projects in 2022, ITD has delivered timely construction of expansion projects across the state. Today’s actions are a continuation of that.

Prior to House Bill 25, no funding was available for construction; now it could begin at the earliest in 2028. This project will replace the existing Spalding Bridge with two wider bridges and add capacity to the existing US-95 and US-12 Interchange.

The board’s action today reflects continued investment targeting congestion and capacity in major corridors that were previously funded by TECM bonds as authorized by the Idaho Legislature. In North-central Idaho, TECM funds had previously allowed ITD to start design of this bridge and the nearby Arrow Bridge.

This project and others were identified because they are existing high-priority corridor needs that will improve traffic flow and increase safety.

US-20 identified for further funding

Roadside view of US-20 roadway and traffic west of Idaho Falls.

Today at its regular monthly meeting the Idaho Transportation Board accepted staff recommendations on priority corridors across Idaho using TECM funds to address congestion, including several projects on U.S. Highway 20 near Idaho Falls. Since Transportation Expansion and Congestion Mitigation funds were first used by the department for bonding and advancing major projects in 2022, ITD has delivered timely construction of expansion projects across the state. Today’s actions are a continuation of that.

With this new funding, the following projects have been recommended for further design and construction:

US-20 west of Idaho Falls: This project will increase capacity by widening the road to two lanes in each direction starting at Idaho Falls and moving west as funding allows. Widening will increase safety for freight, recreational and commuter traffic due to limited passing opportunities and lines of sight. Construction is anticipated start in 2026, two years earlier than planned.
US-20 widening from Chester to Ashton: This project is anticipated to expand the existing roadway into a four-lane divided highway. Construction is anticipated to start in 2028.
I-15 and US-20 Interchange: This project continues to make progress toward relocating I-15 Exit 119 to US-20 and realign US-20 through Idaho Falls to address safety and congestion concerns. Funding will allow for the purchase of private property for future construction.

With these projects now included in the draft Idaho Transportation Investment Program (ITIP), the public will have the opportunity to give feedback on this project and the department’s full list of planned projects from 2026-2032 during the annual comment period in July. Then the draft ITIP will be presented to the board for approval in September.

The board’s action today reflects continued investmenttargeting congestion and capacity in major corridors that were previously funded by TECM bondsas authorized by the Idaho Legislature. In East Idaho, TECM funds allowed for the construction at the South St. Anthony Interchange, which was previously unfunded.

This project and others were identified because they are existing high-priority corridor needs that will improve traffic flow and increase safety.

I-15 corridor identified for further funding

Today at its regular monthly meeting the Idaho Transportation Board accepted staff recommendations on priority corridors across Idaho using TECM funds to address congestion, including three projects on Interstate 15 near Blackfoot. Since Transportation Expansion and Congestion Mitigation funds were first used by the department for bonding and advancing major projects in 2022, ITD has delivered timely construction of expansion projects across the state. Today’s actions are a continuation of that.

With this new funding, the following projects have been recommended for advancing to construction:

I-15 and US-26 Interchange (Exit 93): The existing interchange will be replaced to accommodate additional lanes on the interstate and to include longer on- and off-ramps for safer merging. Construction is anticipated to start in 2026, five years earlier than planned.

I-15 widening from milepost 89 to 93: This project will add capacity by widening the interstate to three lanes in each direction between the US-26 Interchange and the South Blackfoot Interchange. Construction was previously not funded but is now anticipated to start in 2027.

I-15 and US-91 South Blackfoot Interchange (Exit 89): The existing interchange will be upgraded to accommodate additional lanes on the interstate and include longer on- and off-ramps for safer merging. Construction is anticipated to start in 2028, three years earlier than planned.

The board’s action today reflects continued investment targeting congestion and capacity in major corridors that were previously funded by TECM bonds as authorized by the Idaho Legislature. TECM funds have allowed for the construction of the I-86 and I-15 System Interchange in Pocatello, as well as the widening of I-15 from Northgate to Fort Hall.

These projects were identified because they are existing high-priority corridor needs that will improve traffic flow and increase safety.

Traffic shift Thursday night on SH-55 from Middleton Road to Midway Road

The Idaho Transportation Department will shift traffic on Karcher Road (State Highway 55) Thursday night from the Middleton Road intersection through the Midway Road intersection as part of ongoing efforts to widen it to four lanes. Traffic will move to the newly paved temporary shoulder to allow crews to work on the existing lanes of the highway in the coming months.

Drivers can expect:

Nighttime work from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.
SH-55 reduced to one lane with flaggers at night
Permanent removal of the acceleration and deacceleration lanes at both intersections

Karcher Road will keep two lanes of traffic during the daytime with a center turn lane available at intersections. When complete, the highway will feature four lanes and dedicated turn lanes at intersections. The public can expect to see the closure of all acceleration and deacceleration lanes on Karcher Road by next year.

“We will need to shift traffic regularly to keep everyone moving while we widen the highway. Please be aware of your surroundings and drive with caution,” Project Manager Justin Wolf said. “Your safety and the safety of our workers depends on it.”

This work is part of the SH-55, Farmway Road to Middleton Road project, a larger effort to increase mobility and safety along the corridor in Canyon County. When construction is complete in 2027, improvements will include:

Four lanes with dedicated left and right turn lanes at major intersections, including wider shoulders.

A raised median from 10th Avenue to Middleton Road with right-in-right-out-left-in access at mid-mile intersections.

A separated 10-foot bicycle and pedestrian pathway on the north and south sides of SH-55, and a pedestrian undercrossing east of 10th Avenue near Vallivue Middle School.

Upgraded signal equipment at major intersections to allow for better timing between signals.

Sound walls at Crestwood Estates, Fieldcrest Village and Lakeview Apartments.

The Karcher View frontage road west of 10th Avenue on the north side of the highway.

To stay informed and get the latest information about the project and its traffic impacts visit itdprojects.idaho.gov/pages/55Farmway or text 55Farmway to 1-866-483-8422. For questions, contact the project team at (208) 477-1379. Maps and other details can also be found on the project website.

ITD invites the community to provide input on two planning studies in Latah County

Drone picture of US-95 near Moscow. Text reads as "US-95 and SH-8 Palouse Region Studies."

The Idaho Transportation Department invites community members to attend an upcoming public meeting on Tuesday, June 24, to learn more about and provide input on two transportation studies underway in Latah County: the U.S. Highway 95 Palouse Region Study, between Snow Road and the Latah/Benewah county line, and the State Highway 8 Palouse Region Study, between the Washington state line and Troy.

With current traffic volumes and anticipated growth in the area, both studies were initiated in 2023 to guide future investments to improve safety, mobility, and economic opportunity throughout the region. The first steps included identifying transportation needs, environmental and growth considerations, and community goals. From those findings, including the community feedback from the April 2024 public meetings, each study team developed concepts for potential transportation solutions, and the preliminary evaluation results are now ready for community input.

“Public involvement is an important part of the decision-making process and will contribute to the success of these studies,” Project Manager Janet Zarate said. “With the range of concepts available, we look forward to hearing from the community as the feedback helps develop sustainable solutions for transportation in the Palouse Region.”

Opportunities to participate in the public meeting are available both in person and online. Both experiences will include the same information and chances for feedback:

In Person: Tuesday, June 24, drop in anytime between 4 and 7 p.m., Best Western University Inn, Moscow

Online: Available June 17 through July 8 at us95sh8.com

ITD will use this community input as the studies move through the concept evaluation process. Another series of public meetings to share those advancements is anticipated through 2026.

More information about the studies is available at itdprojects.idaho.gov/pages/sh8-us95-pel.

How Workforce Development Equipment Training is shaping ITD’s future

Written by Eric Lumley

Across Idaho’s six districts, a dedicated group of trainers is shaping the future of ITD, one operator at a time. From safety-focused instruction to hands-on mentorship, Jeremy Jensen (D5), John Eastwood (D1), and Dallas Dupree (D6/D3) are the faces behind the Workforce Development Equipment Training program, and they are making a measurable difference in how ITD trains, operates, and grows.

John Eastwood, a Training Specialist in District 1, brings a calm, steady presence to the training field, an approach that resonates deeply with both new and experienced operators. With 3.5 years at ITD and prior experience as a Transportation Technician Operations (TTO), John has a quiet confidence that earns immediate respect. While soft spoken, he has no hesitation getting into the equipment himself to demonstrate what it’s truly capable of safely and effectively.

John’s training style reflects his personality… measured, respectful, and grounded in real-world experience. His hands-on approach gives employees a clear picture of how the work should be done showing, not just telling, what excellence looks like. Whether he’s walking a crew through proper technique or demonstrating the limits of a piece of machinery, his confidence and skill set a powerful example for the TTOs he trains.

He’s known for valuing employees’ time, delivering sessions that are efficient, engaging, and directly relevant to the field. His influence not only raises the competency of equipment operators but also helps instill a mindset of responsibility, care, and professionalism that carries through to every project. John isn’t just training employees; he’s shaping role models for the next generation of ITD field crews.

Jeremy Jensen, the Training Specialist in District 5, is the driving force behind many of the advancements in ITD’s equipment training program. With just over five years at ITD and a background as a TTO, Jeremy has grown into the role of veteran trainer on the equipment side, bringing intensity, high standards, and an unwavering commitment to the program.

Jeremy is unapologetically passionate. He’s not afraid to challenge the status quo and will create waves when needed to push improvements forward. That grit and determination come from a place of genuine care, not just for the training program itself, but for the people going through it. He wants every operator to leave his class not only more skilled but also more confident and ready to succeed in the field.

What makes Jeremy especially effective is his ability to read the room. He adjusts his instruction based on the experience level of the group, tailoring tasks and challenges that push each student to grow. As time allows, he ramps up the difficulty, giving operators a deeper level of hands-on exposure than they often expect. By the end of his trainings, it’s not uncommon to see students who’ve significantly expanded their capabilities through sheer repetition and progressive learning.

While Jeremy and John may seem like opposites in style, they complement each other in all the right ways forming a team that is not only effective but essential in creating well-rounded, impactful trainings. Where John offers calm and steady leadership, Jeremy brings boldness and drive. Together, they strike a perfect balance that sets the gold standard for equipment training across ITD.

Joining this powerhouse duo is Dallas Dupree, a Training Associate from District 6 who is currently supporting operations in District 3. With nearly 14 years of experience at ITD, Dallas brings a strong history of contributing to training efforts during his time as a TTO. Known for his mature demeanor and deep knowledge of ITD operations, he has effectively stepped in to lead numerous training sessions in District 6, consistently delivering reliable, high-quality instruction whenever and wherever needed. His steady presence, wealth of experience, and institutional knowledge make him an invaluable asset to the team and an excellent addition to the Workforce Development program.

Together, this trio represents a critical piece of ITD’s mission to deliver safe, efficient transportation services throughout the state. Their influence reaches all six districts and touches nearly every project ITD is involved in improving operator skill, promoting equipment longevity, and enhancing workplace safety.

As ITD continues to grow and adapt, the Workforce Development Equipment Training Team will be leading the charge — empowering employees, strengthening operations, and helping build a better Idaho.

This is not an exhaustive list, but trainings include:

Loader
Dump truck
Dozer
Snowplow
Backhoe
Excavator (mini and full size)
Trench safety
Motor grader
Rotary snowplow
Street sweeper
Forklift
1. Rough-terrain type
2. Counter-balance type
3. Other types
Advanced motor grader
Vegetation sprayer
Striping trucks
Service truck with crane
Chainsaw
Load securement
CDL certification
Defensive driving
Pavers
Flagging/traffic control operations

…and pretty much any new equipment training! (new models, new features from the industry, handling/ergonomics, controls, etc.)

Jeremy Jensen

John Eastwood

Dallas Dupree

Repairs to last year’s chipseal on Chinden start tonight

Aerial view of Chinden Boulevard, US-20/26, in Boise.

Starting tonight the contractor will return to Chinden Boulevard to address the limited sections from last year’s chipseal project that did not meet ITD standards. Repairs will protect the driving surface and extend the life of the roadway.

Between Glenwood Street and Eagle Road, the highway will receive a thin asphalt overlay resurfacing. From Eagle Road to Linder Road, pavement sealer will be sprayed on to the road to protect it, and lines will be freshly painted.

Work will be done at night from 7:30 p.m. to 5 a.m. to minimize impacts to travelers. One lane will be closed in each direction at night for up to six weeks. All lanes will be open during the day when crews are not on site.

Travelers should check 511.idaho.gov to know before they go.

Idaho DMV is making it easier for residents in Clearwater County to obtain a Star Card

A person is standing next to a window with their Star Card in hand. The camera is zoomed in on the hand holding the card.

OROFINO — The Clearwater County Motor Vehicle Office is now offering Star Card issuance on a walk-in basis. Customers can visit the office at 2200 Michigan Ave in Orofino to upgrade to a Star Card without an appointment.

Walk-in service is available:

Monday through Wednesday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Thursday, 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The office is closed Friday through Sunday and on all holidays.

Customers must bring the required documents to receive a Star Card. If all necessary documents are not presented, the Star Card cannot be issued. A complete checklist of acceptable documents is available at itd.idaho.gov/starcard, and it is strongly recommended to review the list before arriving.

As of May 7, 2025, a Star Card or another federally approved ID is required to fly domestically or enter certain federal facilities. If you already have a Star Card and need to renew it, you can Skip the Trip and renew online at dmv.idaho.gov.

This local service offers a quick and convenient option for Clearwater County residents to upgrade their ID and stay compliant with federal travel requirements.

I-84 will close Tuesday and Wednesday nights at the Karcher Interchange

Aerial photo of I-84 Karcher interchange near Nampa, Idaho.

The Idaho Transportation Department will close I-84 under the Karcher Interchange Tuesday and Wednesday nights to place girders on the overpass bridge. Detours will be in place.

Closures will run from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. each night. On Tuesday night, westbound traffic will be affected, and on Wednesday night, eastbound traffic will be affected.

Motorists traveling westbound on I-84 Tuesday night will:

Exit I-84 at the Northside Interchange (Exit 35).
Travel north on Northside Blvd.
Turn left on to Karcher Road.
Travel west until you reaching the Karcher Interchange westbound on-ramp.
Use the Karcher Interchange westbound on-ramp to merge back on to westbound I-84.

Motorists traveling eastbound on I-84 Wednesday night will:

Exit I-84 using the Karcher Interchange eastbound off-ramp (Exit 33).
Cross Karcher Road.
Use the eastbound on-ramp to merge back onto I-84.

View the detour maps at ITDProjects.idaho.gov/pages/Karcher IC Maps

The girders were fabricated locally and will support the new westbound lane on Karcher Road over the interstate. ITD will host a Facebook live event during the girder placement on Tuesday, June 10. To tune in visit the ITD Facebook page.

Improvements on this project include:

Adding a free running right hand turn at the westbound off-ramp
Paving a third westbound lane on Karcher Road from the westbound off-ramp to Sundance Road
Reinforcing the Karcher Interchange and Indian Creek bridges to support the new lane
Updating signal equipment and adding a pedestrian flashing beacon at the eastbound on-ramp
Building a separated mixed-use path on the north side of Karcher Road

These improvements will increase safety and traffic flow at the interchange. Construction is expected to finish in fall 2025.

Stay informed by signing up for email and text alerts regarding project updates. Text 84CORRIDOR to 1-866-483-8422 or visit itdprojects.idaho.gov/pages/karcheric. For questions, contact the project team at (208) 334-8002. Maps and other details can also be found on the project website.