Overview
Construction is underway on a two-year project to resurface approximately eight miles of Interstate 90 in both directions. The work will help extend the life of the roadway, enhance safety, and provide a smoother driving experience for all travelers.
In addition to resurfacing, the project will include important safety and infrastructure upgrades. These improvements include installing new lighting near the top of Fourth of July Pass, upgrading the highway’s drainage system, and replacing several miles of aging concrete barrier.
Together, these efforts will help keep I-90 safe and reliable for years to come.
What’s new for 2026
The 2026 construction season is set to begin in late March on a section of the interstate between milepost 30 and 32 near the bottom portion of the pass on the east side. To make up for delays experienced in 2025, crews expect to work on multiple sections of the pass simultaneously beginning in May, meaning drivers can expect to encounter back-to-back stretches of single-lane traffic for an extended period this spring and summer.
Once traffic control is established, concrete barriers will separate travel lanes and the work zone; a setup that is significantly safer for crews than traditional cones or barrels, but one that also cannot be quickly reconfigured. This means that traffic will be reduced to a single lane in each direction, with 45 mph speeds around the clock, and including weekends and holidays.
The goal of pushing through multiple sections at once is to complete the project by the end of 2026 and avoid bringing crews back for a third consecutive season on the pass.
Drivers should expect:
- Lane restrictions in effect 24/7 for the duration of the construction season, including Memorial Day, 4th of July, and potentially Labor Day weekend.
- Single lane in each direction through all active work zones.
- Speed limit reduced to 45 mph through the work zone.
- 12-foot lane widths. Lanes will be able to accommodate vehicles towing campers and trailers, but expect slow-moving and congested conditions, especially on holiday weekends.
- No closures planned for turnouts, historical signs, or recreation access points; flagging may be in place when active work moves through those areas
Idaho 511 will be the best source of up-to-date information regarding road conditions, congestion, or delays on the interstate resulting from this project.
Contact the project team
For questions or comments about this project, please contact the project team at thomas.trutter@itd.idaho.gov or (208) 772-1200.