Overview
ITD is developing plans to improve the SH-55 Banks-Lowman Intersection.
This intersection can experience significant traffic increases due to seasonal recreation attractions in the area. Watch the video to learn more about the background and process of this project.
This intersection can experience significant traffic increases due to seasonal recreation attractions in the area. Watch the video to learn more about the background and process of this project.
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Background
- ITD added a temporary signal at the intersection in spring 2025 to reduce congestion.
- Seasonal recreation attractions in the area are increasing traffic during summer weekends at the intersection.
- This project includes alternative analysis, environmental studies and design work for intersection improvements.
Project Process
ITD is currently in the planning and design phase of a long-term improvement project for the Banks-Lowman Intersection. The planning and design process includes:
- Completing an environmental evaluation.
- Completing technical studies such as geotechnical and hydraulic work.
- Developing design and construction plans for the bridge and roadway.
- Working with the public throughout the process.
Community Input
- ITD will approach decisions about the Banks-Lowman intersection with a high level of transparency, responsiveness and community involvement.
- Community input is an important component of the final design plans for the intersection.
- ITD plans to hold multiple community open houses at key points of the design process to keep the public involved.
Timeline
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2025
Initiate project and develop intersection improvements.
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2026-2027
Develop preliminary design plans and environmental evaluation.
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2028
Complete final design plans, when funds are available.
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TBD
Construction will be scheduled when funds are available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Based on a preliminary study and public feedback, the interim traffic signal at the intersection of State Highway 55 and Banks Lowman Road was installed in May 2025. The interim signal was designed as a temporary solution to provide safer and more predictable turning opportunities.
As Idaho has grown, traffic and congestion have steadily increased at this intersection in recent years. During busy summer weekends, more than 10,000 drivers pass through the intersection on their way to popular recreation destinations. Improving this intersection will increase safety and mobility to the many different users of this intersection.
ITD is looking at widening two bridges, the SH-55 bridge over the north fork of the Payette River and the Banks-Lowman Road bridge, over the south fork of the Payette River. ITD will also be widening the surrounding roadways and adding a permanent traffic signal.
Construction will be scheduled when funds become available. ITD anticipates a construction date near 2033.