2/1/2008
UPDATE: ITD to begin removing ruts on I-84 between Garrity and Meridian interchanges Monday (Feb. 4)
BOISE - Night-time traffic changes on Interstate 84 are expected to begin Monday (Feb. 4) for milling work between the Garrity and Meridian interchanges, the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) announced. This work was scheduled to begin Monday (Jan. 28), but was delayed due to weather. The start date may change again depending on weather.
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. The traffic changes are expected to last through March 31 and will allow crews to remove ruts.
During the daytime, all lanes of traffic will remain open. There may be daytime traffic delays when crews paint lane stripes. ITD lowered the I-84 speed limit to 55 mph between the Garrity and Meridian interchanges Jan. 27 to move equipment to the project area. The reduced speed limit will be in effect throughout construction.
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. Milling is expected to be complete by March 31, 2008. 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 finished, 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.