Overview
In 2022, ITD renewed efforts with local partners to address growing traffic and regional connectivity challenges in the Magic Valley, including a study to identify and evaluate feasible, buildable, and fundable bridge alternatives.
To date, the study team has completed the following activities:
- Alternatives development for possible solutions
- Goal setting for potential improvements
- Data collection and documentation of existing (2022) and future transportation conditions
- Traffic analysis including an origin and destination study for the Perrine Bridge
- Stakeholder outreach including interviews and working groups with community members and technical advisors
Next Steps
The Idaho Transportation Board approved funding to launch three initiatives from this study:
- US-93, Blue Lakes Blvd. and Pole Line Rd. Intersection Improvements (analysis, value engineering study, and preliminary planning)
- SH-50/SH-30 Corridor planning, (Red Cap Corner to I-84) including widening or replacing the Hansen Bridge
- The continued Snake River Crossing Study, with a goal to progress into an environmental review (NEPA) and an objective of securing federal funding for a new crossing
Each of these efforts require significant, focused attention to identify short-, mid-, and long-term solutions. The other initiatives will proceed independently, with design expected to begin in 2025.
The Snake River Crossing Study will continue with a focus on building regional consensus for a potential new third crossing.
Study Area
The study area includes a portion of the Magic Valley, shown on the map. The region is experiencing rapid growth, and transportation solutions to serve current and future demand is critical for safety, mobility, and economic opportunity.
Community Involvement
In the early phases of the study, ITD conducted interviews and working groups with local jurisdictions and key stakeholders in the Magic Valley to understand transportation needs and identify potential improvements. While the planning effort has been primarily data-focused, collaboration and public input are essential to shaping a community-appropriate transportation solution.
Public meetings were held in June and August 2025 to share study findings, initial concepts, evaluation criteria, and project goals and objectives for the potential third river crossing, and to gather public input to help refine the early phases of analysis and design.
To receive email updates on the study and upcoming feedback opportunities, click on the button below or email info@snakerivercrossing.com.
Contact Information
- Hotline: 208-428-1800
- Email: info@snakerivercrossing.com