Overview
The Idaho Transportation Department is developing plans to install a traffic signal at the intersection of State Highway 44 and Palmer Lane.
ITD is working collaboratively with Ada County Highway District, the City of Star, and the City of Eagle to design and construct these improvements.
Project Scope
- Install a new traffic signal at the intersection
- Construct new curb ramps at the southwest and southeast corners that meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards
- Add marked pedestrian crosswalks across the south and east sides of the intersection
- Widen the south leg of Palmer Lane to add a dedicated left-turn lane
- Convert the existing two-way left-turn lane on SH-44 to dedicated left-turn lanes at the intersection
- Prepare the intersection for a future shared-use pathway planned along the south side of SH-44 between SH-16 and West State Street
Background
ITD completed the SH-44, Star Road to West State Street project in 2024. That project identified the need for a higher-capacity intersection at SH-44 and Palmer Lane to accommodate future traffic volumes.
The proposed traffic signal project is considered an interim improvement that will provide protected traffic movements through the intersection to accommodate recent growth in the surrounding area.
ITD is currently in the design phase of the project. This includes completing an environmental evaluation, preparing right-of-way acquisition documents, and developing design and construction plans for the improvements.
Next Steps
ITD expects to finalize the environmental evaluation and construction plans in early 2026. Right-of-way acquisition will be required to construct the improvements and will begin following environmental approval. The project is anticipated to be advertised for construction in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When will construction start?
- ITD is currently completing the environmental evaluation and preparing design and construction plans. Some right-of-way acquisition will be required to construct the improvements. Construction is expected to begin in 2026.
- How long will construction take?
- Construction is anticipated to take approximately 6 months.
- Will roads close for construction?
- South Palmer Lane will be closed for short periods to allow for the reconstruction and widening. No closures are anticipated for SH-44 or the north leg of Palmer Lane.
- Will U-turns be allowed at the intersection?
- Yes. The intersection improvements include new pavement at the northwest corner to accommodate eastbound to westbound U-turn movements.