I-84 widening from Franklin to 11th in Nampa to begin in late June

BOISE - The final project in the widening of I-84 to three lanes from Nampa's Franklin Road to Garrity Boulevard is expected to start in the last week of June. Bridge projects at Garrity and at 11th are already under way to accommodate the additional lanes.

The project will improve I-84 between the Franklin and Garrity interchanges by widening the interstate to three lanes in each direction and adding an auxiliary lane for eastbound traffic. The auxiliary lane allows motorists to enter I-84 at Franklin, remain in the lane furthest right, and exit at Garrity - never having to merge with interstate traffic.

The project also includes the replacement of the Union Pacific Railroad and Phyllis Canal bridges.

Construction is expected to be complete by late spring or early summer 2012. The widening project is one of several interstate improvement projects occurring in an 18-mile stretch of I-84, funded by the GARVEE Transportation Program. The program uses proceeds from Grant Anticipation Revenue Vehicle (GARVEE) bonds to accelerate highway improvements throughout Idaho.

Concrete Placing Company of Boise is the contractor on this $22.2 million project.

The Idaho Transportation Department reminds motorists to dial 5-1-1 or go to the Traveler Services Web site, 511.idaho.gov, to check for updates on highway construction and conditions on the state highway system.