New traffic-tracker tool from ITD shows significant decline in vehicle trips on Idaho highways

The Idaho Transportation Department has launched a new traffic-tracking tool that allows government agencies, emergency services, and the public to see the latest changes in driver behavior on Idaho highways.

You can access the tool at: https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/02bb18c4ed0f4fe1a5e57f7d39621bb9

The tool uses preliminary data to provide information faster in an easy-to-understand format. This information can help government leaders gauge ongoing economic activity. Emergency services can look to ensure critical transportation routes remain open.

“Traffic data like this is desired by numerous groups,” said Margaret Pridmore, Roadway Data Manager for ITD. “This will provide information closer to real-time than our traditional measurements. That information is helpful as decision-makers navigate the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Early results have shown a decline in travel across the state. For example, the week after COVID-19 was first confirmed in Idaho, there was an estimated 30% drop in trips on the I-184 connector. Following the stay-home order from Governor Brad Little, traffic dropped an additional estimated 26% at that location.

“One interesting thing we observed occurred in Eastern Idaho. While traffic volumes typically decreased in the days after the first case of COVID-19 was confirmed in Idaho, I-15 traffic increased for several days. Personnel in those districts observed a lot of Canadians heading home in fear that the US-Canada border could be closed in the near future.”

The data is not as thoroughly vetted for quality as normal, meaning some abnormalities may arise. However, Pridmore is leading a team to provide the best quality information on a short deadline as can be achieved. The information is updated within 72 hours of the data being received.

ITD responds to 6.5 magnitude earthquake

two landslides fell across idaho highway 21

ITD maintenance and bridge personnel are cleaning up debris and inspecting infrastructure after a 6.5 magnitude earthquake shook the Idaho Central Mountains Tuesday night.

Several mountain highways saw rockfall on the roadway following the quake. That includes Idaho Highway 75 (ID-75) near Stanley, ID-21 north and south of Lowman, ID-55 between Horseshoe Bend and Cascade, and ID-52 east of Emmett. Maintenance crews were immediately deployed to clear these hazards from the roadway and ensure the road was safe for travel.

Aftershocks continue to rock the region, causing additional rockfall. Crews are patrolling these high-risk areas to actively clean rocks from the highway. ITD urges the traveling public to use caution when driving in these areas.

NO IMMEDIATE CONCERN FOR BRIDGES

After the earthquake, maintenance crews scanned bridge structures for damage. At this time, there has been no damage of concern noted and the highways remain open. As is always the case, if any issue is spotted, ITD will immediately close a bridge.

ITD’s Bridge Department is conducting more-detailed analysis of the situation. They are conducting additional analysis of structures closer to the earthquake’s epicenter. Over the next several weeks, inspections will be conducted on priority structures to determine whether damage has been done and repairs are needed.

IDAHO HIGHWAY 21 CLOSED BETWEEN LOWMAN AND STANLEY

A storm system dumped 27” of snow in the Canyon Creek section of Idaho Highway 21, from Grandjean to Banner Summit. This increased the risk of avalanches and ITD closed the highway at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, several hours before the earthquake.

The earthquake did cause several slides to fall onto the highway in this section. Crews entered the area to begin clean-up Tuesday night and quickly found the landslides were extensive. The crew contacted U.S. Geological Survey, which informed them of aftershocks and the risk of additional landslides. The crew withdrew and will remain out of the canyon until USGS has determined the risk of aftershocks is reduced.

At this time, the number and extent of landslides on this section are unknown. There is no timeframe when crews can re-enter the Canyon and begin clearing the road. Additional repairs to the roadway may be required as well. The Department is advising it may be many days before this section of ID-21 re-opens. Idaho Highway 75 and U.S. 93 remain open to access Stanley.

ONGOING ESSENTIAL SERVICES

Per Governor Brad Little’s Stay-Home Order, the ongoing maintenance and operation of roads are essential services and will continue during the COVID-19 pandemic. ITD crews will continue to respond to rockfall and other hazards created by the record earthquake. Additional essential services, such as plowing snow, pothole repair, and striping will also continue. The Department is committed to safely executing its Mission: “Your Safety. Your Mobility. Your Economic Opportunity.”

Idaho DMV encourages use of expanded online services

UPDATE: Star Card deadline is now May 7, 2025

U.S. Department of Homeland Security notice for REAL ID

Originally published 4/1/2020

The Idaho Transportation Department’s Division of Motor Vehicles encourages residents to complete DMV services online, as COVID-19 leads to limited in-person service at most county driver’s license and registration offices across the state. The customer service portal at itd.idaho.gov/driveidaho now offers expanded online services including driver’s license and registration renewals, and motor carrier services like commercial vehicle permits and registrations; traditionally services that would require a visit to a DMV office.

“In an effort to assist citizens who need to take care of their immediate DMV needs, such as commercial driver’s license renewals, the itd.idaho.gov/driveidaho website is a great resource to complete many transactions,” said DMV Administrator Alberto Gonzalez.

The DMV has instituted a 90-day extension on some credentials expiring between March 1 and May 31, 2020, in order to help drivers through this COVID-19 pandemic. This includes driver’s licenses and vehicle registrations that can be renewed online. Those expiring between March 1 and May 31, 2020 now have until June 30, 2020 to renew. The DMV urges Idahoans to utilize the online customer service portal now, in order to prevent long wait times when DMV offices eventually reopen.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has also extended the REAL ID enforcement deadline one year, to October 1, 2021. This gives Idahoans an additional year to get the Star Card, Idaho’s REAL ID.

DMV office hours and services are determined by county sheriffs and assessors, and vary statewide. For more information, please contact your county office, log onto itd.idaho.gov/driveidaho, or call the Idaho DMV at 208.334.8000.

ITD continues to provide essential services during COVID-19 pandemic

The Idaho Transportation Department continues to provide essential services during the COVID-19 pandemic through innovation and by following the guidance of health experts.

Transportation is essential to Idaho’s response during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is imperative to provide a safe system that allows for the delivery of groceries, medical equipment and other important services throughout Idaho and the nation.

On the highway, construction is continuing to move forward. Additional safety precautions are being made on the job site to adhere to the latest guidance from health experts. Our maintenance personnel are on-hand to plow the road during Spring snow storms and do critical maintenance work, such as filling potholes, removing roadway hazards, and fixing guardrail.

In compliance with the Governor’s Stay-Home order, many office workers are providing essential services from their homes. DMV specialists are taking calls from the public and county offices. Accountants and contract administrators are filing work remotely. Collaborative meetings and working groups are conducted online. ITD has mobilized its IT resources to provide the equipment to keep this work going.

The COVID-19 pandemic is a once-in-a-lifetime emergency. The situation is dynamic and each day brings new information. The Department will continue to evaluate and modify its business practices as the situation develops. ITD is committed to providing its essential services to the people of Idaho in accordance to our Mission: “Your Safety. Your Mobility. Your Economic Opportunity.”

Bridge treatments on I-84 in Jerome & Minidoka counties to begin next week

Work is expected to begin next week on four Interstate 84 bridges and one overpass bridge on 850 West Road near Burley. ITD will resurface the bridges in order to extend their operational life.

Resurfacing will first occur on the 850 West Road overpass and traffic over the bridge will be detoured to the Burley/Paul Overpass at Exit 208 while this work is underway.

“Detouring traffic while the overpass is resurfaced allows us to complete work on the project more quickly. It also allows us to reduce project costs and lessen impacts to travelers,” said ITD project manager Randal Brunello.

While work takes place on I-84, traffic will be reduced to one lane through the work zone and motorists may encounter minor delays. As work shifts from one bridge to another, traffic patterns will also change.

Drivers should expect reduced speeds throughout the area and watch for crews during working hours.

Construction on the project is expected to be completed by September of this year. The general contractor is Coldwater Group.

Bridge rehabilitation to begin construction today on the ID-31 Pine Creek bridge

SWAN VALLEY – To increase the longevity of the bridge, the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) will begin construction on the ID-31 Pine Creek bridge starting today.

“This bridge rehabilitation will entail replacing the bridge expansion joints, re-surfacing of the bridge deck, repairing the storm water drains, improving the erosion control on the bridge embankment, replacing the guardrail at the approaches, improving the bridge approaches and finishing with new pavement,” said ITD Project Manager Eli Robinson, “This project will greatly improve and extend the lifespan of the bridge.”

The Pine Creek bridge construction will begin today and is expected to be completed by late fall.

Drivers can expect traffic delays for the duration of the project. Reduced speed limits will be effect and traffic will be reduced to one-lane with traffic signals in place.

Please remember to pay attention, obey traffic laws and plan your commute accordingly. ITD would like to remind drivers that traffic fines are doubled in work zones. Please check 511.Idaho.gov for current road conditions.

As winter melts away, spring brings new driving precautions

ITD crews, including our most dedicated snow plow operators, look forward to the onset of spring. But, the new season brings new challenges. Spring is a time of transition, and fluctuating temperatures can make it one of the busiest seasons for our employees. As winter melts away, please be mindful of the below scenarios and take precautions.

Problems can pop up quickly — whether it’s a series of deep, tire-damaging potholes in the fast lane or massive mudslides that block key routes in just minutes. Responding to these situations can be challenging as crews switch from long hours of nighttime snow plowing to daytime repairs.

Some repairs — like patching potholes — have to be done with multiple treatments since they’re not as effective in cold weather. Other repairs may need to wait until trucks currently outfitted with plows can be converted to haul other materials.

This transition from winter to spring applies to drivers, too. You still need to be prepared for winter conditions, especially when traveling over mountain passes. Spring is an excellent time to change out wiper blades and check tires to prep your car for wet roads. Shadowed corners can be icy on cold mornings, and storms can mix rain and snow as you gain elevation. In periods of heavy rain, vigilantly watching for rocks or objects in the road can prevent a dangerous collision.

When the weather warms up, so does the desire to get outside. It’s important to watch the road not just for hazards such as fallen rocks and adverse weather conditions but to also take extra precautions and be on the lookout for motorcyclists, bicyclists, children at play and even wildlife.

As ITD crews switch to springtime tasks, make the switch too by planning for changing road conditions. Be sure to check 511.idaho.gov for alerts before you hit the road to stay safe while you travel.

Intersection improvements to N 4100 E on ID-48 to begin Monday with irrigation pipe work

RIGBY – Construction will start on Monday, March 23 and continue through March 27 to make improvements to the intersection of ID-48 & N 4100 E. Crews will be replacing, moving and improving the irrigation pipe at this intersection.

The contractor is building the project at this time to make the appropriate improvements while there is no irrigation water running in the ditch.

This is the first of four project phases. The next phase is expected to begin this June, as ITD adds turn lanes at the above intersection. These changes are to improve the safety to the intersection and reduce traffic delays.

Expect temporary traffic delays during construction. The eastbound and westbound lanes on ID-48 will have traffic control set up to one-way traffic from 7 a.m.to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Expect traffic delays of up to 15 minutes until the project is completed.

Traffic will also be detoured to N 4200 E and N 4000 E to access N 4100 E from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Traffic will be opened to two lanes on ID-48 overnight on weeknights, starting at 7 p.m.

Tree removal at the Orofino Airport underway, with impacts to US-12 next week

A car passes the Orofino Airport on US-12

Trees along US-12 near the Orofino Airport will be removed next week to improve safety for flyers and drivers.

In recent years, the trees have grown taller and thicker, prompting the Federal Aviation Administration to ask the City of Orofino to remove those that are encroaching on the runway. Some trees are on property owned by the Idaho Transportation Department, which supports their removal to enhance safety by decreasing shade in winter months and improve drivers’ line of sight.

Starting Monday, March 23, crews will start removing trees between US-12 and the airport. They are expected to be on site from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. for up to five days. A helicopter will transport the logs to another part of the grounds for processing.

When crews are on scene, the westbound slow lane will be closed. All westbound traffic will be stopped for up to 15 minutes when larger trees with the capacity to reach the road are felled. All lanes will be open when there is no active work.

Work is already underway to remove trees on the north side of the airport. Any questions may be directed to the City of Orofino at (208) 476-4725.

ITD issues 90-day extension on expiring credentials, encourages use of online services

To reduce large gatherings of people, the Idaho Transportation Department’s Division of Motor Vehicle is instituting a 90-day extension on some credentials. The public is also encouraged to use the DMV’s online services rather than go to the county sheriffs’ and assessors’ offices for essential services.

The 90-day extension applies to driver’s licenses and non-commercial registration. If one of these credentials expires between March 1st and May 31st of 2020, you will have until June 30th 2020 to renew. Many of these can be renewed online.

“As each county office decides the best way to operate during the COVID-19 pandemic, ITD is committed to providing remote services online, by mail, or over the phone,” said ITD’s Division of Motor Vehicle Administrator Alberto Gonzalez. “Much of the business the public needs to do with the DMV can be done through one of those methods. This balances the need to preserve public safety with the need for essential government services to keep people and products moving.”

County offices are managed by both the county sheriff’s office and county assessor’s office. In total, there are 88 county DMV jurisdictions. Each jurisdiction has the authority to close its offices or change the way to conduct business.

Some county DMV offices have already closed and others are considering it. ITD encourages the public to call their county office before leaving to see the current status. Contact information for each office can be found at itd.idaho.gov/itddmv.

The following services are available online, through mail, or over the phone.

Driver’s license renewal (not for first-time Star Card)
Acquiring a replacement driver’s license or identification card
Paying driver’s license reinstatement fees
Purchasing a driving record
Vehicle registration renewal
Ordering personalized license plates
Checking status of vehicle plates and titles
Commercial vehicle oversize/overweight permits
Commercial vehicle registrations

Please note, the Oct. 1, 2020 deadline to use a Star Card (Idaho’s REAL ID) or other federally-approved identification for federal security at airports, military bases, or federal courts is outside the control of the State of Idaho. ITD and the Governor’s Office is in communication with our Congressional Delegation, the Department of Homeland Security, and the White House regarding this matter in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.