ITD to reduce delays for motorists in construction zones Traffic flow through this summer’s construction zones statewide will improve as ITD introduces guidelines to alleviate long-held driver frustrations. Wait times for projects will be shorter, and speed limits and lane closures will be more reasonable as the department acts on input from drivers. These changes, governing speed limits and lane closures within construction zones, will benefit the increasing number of drivers using Idaho highways:
Project durations also will be adjusted. Construction time for new projects will be reduced to lessen impacts to the public. For example, the ongoing Weiser River Bridge project on U.S. 95in southwest Idaho is a contract allowing 200 working days but no winter shutdowns, whereas the Payette River Bridge project on U.S. 95 a few years ago was allowed 420 days for construction and also winter shutdowns. “ITD understands the frustrations drivers have when they are slowed or stopped for construction,” explained Tom Cole, ITD’s chief engineer. “We also understand the need to keep work zones as safe as possible for all.” “Nationally, it's not only the construction workers who are at risk. Members of the public are being killed and injured - 75 percent of all fatalities and serious injuries within work zones are sustained by the public," Cole added. "We are hoping that these changes will make our work zones safer for both the worker and the user.” Published 7-5-13 |