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Wind-speed warning part of U.S. 93 message sign installation
underway in south-central Idaho

Work began March 28 to install a permanent dynamic message sign along U.S. 93 (in the location shown above) for traffic driving southbound between Interstate 84 and Twin Falls to help alert drivers about any oncoming roadway issues or provide safety messages.

The dynamic message sign (DMS) will have the capability to carry traffic alerts and safety messages to southbound drivers. The addition of the DMS sign will give southbound traffic information about events, traffic delays, and the opportunity to U-turn at the Golf Course Road intersection and find an alternate route if necessary.

The sign also will be used to warn drivers of 40 mph or higher wind speeds at the Perrine Bridge in Twin Falls, where several commercial vehicles overturned in the last few years on the bridge during high-wind conditions. The public has requested that ITD provide wind-speed information as a public service to reduce the number of overturned vehicles and improve safety.

This project will benefit the economy by letting commercial carriers know in advance if they need to make alternative travel arrangements to get their products to markets safely and on time. The primary partners/stakeholders are the trucking industry, the city of Twin Falls, and Twin Falls County.

Quality Electric Inc., of Boise, is the contractor for the $313,357 sign installation project. Work is expected to be complete by the end of April. There will be limited impact to traffic with a shoulder closure during much of the installation.

The project was originally scheduled to be funded and constructed in 2017. However, with project plans already completed, the project was advanced by the Idaho Transportation Board to take advantage of increased funding allocated by the 2015 Idaho Legislature. This is one of 27 statewide projects selected last year to be advanced based on readiness and the critical need to improve roadway safety.