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Sandpoint residents close one chapter, open new one

Friday dedication signals near completion of long-awaited Sand Creek Bypass

State and local officials and ITD staff joined more than 300 Bonner County residents Friday (June 29) in Sandpoint to dedicate the Sand Creek Byway, which is nearing completion.

"The project will benefit all of Idaho, not just the Sandpoint area and Bonner County," said Jim Coleman, Idaho Transportation Board member from northern Idaho. "U.S. 95 serves as a transportation corridor for the entire state and is a critical artery that will continue to unite the state."

The contractor is putting the finishing touches on the project, and the route is expected to open in the near future.

First proposed a half-century ago, the byway project included one of the most extensive efforts to involve the public in the decision-making process. Because of those efforts - and the community's participation in helping design the project - many of the community-driven amenities were included in the final project design.

"The project is what it is today because of the community involvement and input from all sides," Coleman said.

"That's the way we want to work with all communities," he added.

Participants had high praise for ITD Resident Engineer Ken Sorensen and his staff. From the very beginning, the Sandpoint Residency stepped up to the plate, noted District 1 Engineer Damon Allen.

“Ken and his staff were determined from the very beginning that they were ready to take on this project,” he said. “And they have done an outstanding job.”

The byway, in conjunction with other important roadway improvements, will maximize mobility, and provide a safe, long-term solution to traffic congestion problems in the Sandpoint area, including a non-stop, through-town corridor for commercial truck traffic. The byway also will provide a local opportunity to enjoy and use a modern bike and pedestrian trail.