4/30/2008
Construction under way on Interstate 15 between Sage Junction and Spencer
RIGBY - A resurfacing project on Interstate 15 between Sage Junction and Spencer began this week, the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) announced.
Crews are repaving 24 miles of southbound lanes on I‑15 from Dubois to Sage Junction and 13 miles of northbound lanes from Dubois to Spencer. They will repave and apply a seal coat to the highway surface and install rumble strips on both stretches. Rumble strips are a safety feature that warns motorists if they cross the fog line by causing a vibrating sensation as tires roll over the grooved pavement.
Construction began on Monday (April 28).
Travel will be reduced to one lane in construction zones, and the speed limit will be reduced to 55 mph. Interstate on- and off-ramps will remain open. Work will take place on weekdays and occasionally on Saturdays. The project is scheduled for completion this fall.
ITD awarded H-K Contractors Inc. of Idaho Falls the $6 million contract.
The contractor will overlay the existing road with a new layer of asphalt and then seal coat the raised surface with asphalt and crushed rock. The resurfaced highway will offer a strengthened roadway and a smoother ride for motorists.
ITD will administer the project using federal and state funds.
Drivers should anticipate changing driving conditions, such as merging traffic, construction vehicles, construction workers and uneven surfaces.
The Idaho State Police reminds motorists that fines double for moving violations in work zones. For personal and worker safety, motorists are asked to drive with care. Information on highway projects in Idaho is available by dialing 5‑1‑1 or on the Internet at 511.idaho.gov.