You're Invited! Thursday, October 22
ITD is inviting you to attend the drop in meeting for the State Highway 44 Widening project. Community members are invited to drop in anytime between 4:30-6:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 22 at Liberty Hall (960 S Main, Star)
Overview
The Idaho Transportation Department is widening State Highway 44 to five lanes between Star Road and SH-16. The project is anticipated to be complete in fall/winter 2027.
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Improvements
Improvements will include:
- Widening State Highway 44 to five lanes to include two lanes of travel in each direction with a center turn lane.
- Replacing the existing roadway surface.
- Connecting pedestrian pathways on the south side of State Highway 44.
- Relocating utilities.
What to Expect
Construction will happen in stages. Below are impacts you will see throughout the project.
- Shifting traffic patterns.
- Most work will occur during the day.
- One lane will remain open in each direction along SH-44 during the day.
- Nighttime work is expected.
- Overnight lane closures and flagging along SH-44 may be necessary.
- Nighttime noise with equipment and backup alarms.
- Access to local businesses will be open.
Community Input
ITD wants to make sure the Star Community is involved throughout the project. ITD will hold several drop-in meetings throughout the project. The first drop-in meeting will be held Thurs., Oct. 22 at Liberty Hall in Star. Additional meetings will occur in 2027.
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Timeline
The project will begin in fall 2026 with an estimated construction completion date in fall-winter 2027.
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Fall 2026
Utility and paving work begins
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Spring 2027
Widening & paving operations continue
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Fall/Winter 2027
Construction complete
Frequently Asked Questions
This project is projected to be completed in Fall/Winter of 2027. The opening will coincide with the State Highway 16 and State Highway 44 Interchange opening.
Drivers can expect minor traffic impacts during construction.
- Shifting traffic patterns
- Lane closures on SH-44 with flaggers
- Most work will occur during the day
- Occasional nighttime work will take place
- Nighttime noise with equipment and backup alarms
No full closures are anticipated for State Highway 44. Partial lane closures should be expected, primarily at night. During the day at least one lane will be open in each direction.
Drivers can expect four traffic shifts when work is taking place on the side of the roadway. Traffic will be shifted to the opposite side of the ongoing work.
Yes, both projects will be run by the Knife River Construction company allowing for smooth communication between both teams.
Yes, this project will start near Moyle Avenue, where the SH-16/SH-44 Interchange project has widened SH-44, and extend to Star Road.
Downloads and Resources
Contact the project team
If you have questions or comments about this project, contact the project team at info@sh44widening.com or 208-261-2443. You can also text 44WIDENING to 1-866-483-8422.