Untitled Document

ITD will address frequent avalanche closures, openings on Idaho 21 differently this winter season

A news release Dec. 14 marked the first of many anticipated closures and openings on Idaho 21 between Lowman and Stanley this winter season. That news release, though, was the beginning of a new strategy in terms of media notification of those frequent events. Rather than a release to mark each closure and opening, ITD instead used the occasion of the first closure to put the media on notice that they will need to check in with the Idaho traveler advisory system, 511, for those details in the future.

The release Dec. 14 included these lines: "All future updates about when the road will reopen, as well as potential closures, are available at 511.idaho.gov. You are encouraged to visit the site or download the mobile 511 app to ensure you receive timely updates about road conditions on Idaho 21, or any other state route across Idaho."

The avalanche-prone section of roadway routinely closes and reopens numerous times each winter season.