1/25/2008
ITD to begin removing ruts on I-84 between Garrity and Meridian interchanges Monday (Jan. 28)
BOISE - Nighttime traffic changes on Interstate 84 are expected to begin Sunday (Jan. 27) for milling work between the Garrity and Meridian interchanges, the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) announced.
The speed limit will be lowered to 55 mph in the project area beginning Sunday (Jan. 27). I-84 will be reduced to one lane in each direction from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. between the Garrity and Meridian interchanges beginning Monday. The traffic changes will last for about nine weeks and will allow crews to mill the road to remove ruts.
During the daytime, all lanes of traffic will remain open. There may be daytime traffic delays when crews paint lane stripes.
Milling work is weather-dependant and the start date may change. Removing the ruts will prepare this segment of I-84 for construction-related traffic shifts during the I-84 Garrity Interchange to Meridian Interchange project.
The project will widen and reconstruct 6.2 miles of interstate between the Garrity and Meridian interchanges. The milling is anticipated to be finished by March 31. After that, ITD will begin construction of a third lane in each direction in the existing median. A permanent barrier will be placed between east- and westbound lanes.
The widening work will allow ITD to add a fourth lane in each direction in the future. Additional environmental work, traffic analysis and overpass widening are needed before the fourth lane can be completed.
When complete, the new six-lane divided interstate will reduce congestion and improve safety for motorists. The project is expected to be complete in 2010. It is part of a series of improvements planned for I-84 between Caldwell and Meridian.
The project is funded through the GARVEE Transportation Program. The program uses Grant Anticipation Revenue Vehicle (GARVEE) bonds to design and construct needed improvements throughout the state in less time than through traditional funding methods.
Central Paving Co. of Boise is the contractor for the $1.1 million milling work.
For current driving conditions on Idaho highways, dial 5-1-1 or visit 511.idaho.gov.