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Holiday traffic flagging on Idaho 55 takes different twist

ITD's District 3 crews have assisted motorists through the busy junction of Idaho 55 and the Banks-to-Lowman highway on three major holiday weekends the past 18 years. Last week was no exception. ITD arranged for traffic control to help drivers return from recreational outings over the long Fourth of July holiday.

But the midsummer assistance had a couple of additional twists this year, according to Brian Inwards, maintenance foreman for that segment of the highway.

First, the flagging operation took place several days after the official holiday. Crews flagged traffic on Sunday, July 7 because it was projected to be the busiest day for holiday/recreation travel.

Second, flaggers intentionally altered the historic timing of integrating Banks-to-Lowmn traffic with Idaho 55. In the past, flaggers gave preference -- on about a 2:1 ratio -- to Idaho 55 traffic, since it usually is heavier than that merging from Banks-to-Lowman.

This year, flaggers held the southbound Idaho 55 traffic longer than usual, giving traffic from the east longer access periods. The intent was to keep Banks-to-Lowman clear of backups to aid firefighters working on a nearby brush fire. Boise County closed the Banks-to-Lowman highway after the holiday peak and flagging ended as a safety precaution.