We’re back with another I-15 update!
Are you curious about what’s being planned for I-15 between Fort Hall and Blackfoot? Check out the fall update video to learn about the status of three design projects:
- I-15 South Blackfoot Interchange (Exit 89)
- I-15 Exit 89 to Exit 93 Widening
- I-15 US-26/Blackfoot Interchange (Exit 93)
The project team is developing design plans for the I-15 US-26/Blackfoot Interchange. Thank you for participating in the public open house in spring 2025!
Project details
The Idaho Transportation Department plans to:
- Replace the interchange.
- Widen the Union Pacific Railroad bridges over W Bridge Street.
- Lengthen the on- and off-ramps.
- Increase vertical clearance over US-26.
- Make improvements to accommodate additional lanes on the interstate.
Improvements are being designed using an environmental evaluation, traffic and geotechnical data, surveying and public input.
Background
Most of I-15 was constructed in the 1960s and 1970s. Improving safety and interchange operations is necessary to meet eastern Idaho’s commercial, residential and recreational needs.
Next steps
ITD hosted two public open houses about three projects along I-15 between Fort Hall and Blackfoot:
- I-15 South Blackfoot Interchange (Exit 89)
- I-15 Exit 89 to Exit 93 Widening
- I-15 US-26/Blackfoot Interchange (Exit 93)
The project team is reviewing public feedback and will continue the design process for each project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Plans for the I-15 US-26/Blackfoot Interchange (Exit 93) Project currently include increasing vertical clearance over US-26, lengthening entrance and exit ramps, and making accommodations for additional lanes on the interstate. These improvements will enhance safety, increase capacity, and improve interchange operations. Improvements will be developed using an environmental evaluation, technical data, and public input.
Most of I-15 was constructed in the 1960s and 1970s. It is necessary to increase capacity and improve safety to meet eastern Idaho’s increasing population and travel needs. ITD will also improve interchange operations by modernizing aging infrastructure.
This project utilizes state and federal funding.
This project is located at the I-15 US-26/Blackfoot Interchange (Exit 93) in Blackfoot, Idaho.
From 2022 – 2023, ITD worked on the environmental evaluation, gathered traffic and geotechnical information and surveyed the area. The project team is currently developing preliminary engineering design plans. The final design plans are expected to be completed in 2025. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2026.
ITD will distribute emails, postcards, fact sheets, and other written materials with project information, and will host several opportunities for public comment throughout the planning process. ITD will also work with community members and local city and county officials to identify and address concerns.
Stay Informed
To sign up for project update emails: Click here
Call (208) 252-5553
Email info@pocatellotoidahofalls.org