6/24/2008
Road construction to begin on Bellevue to Hailey July 8
HAILEY - Temperatures have warmed enough for a long-awaited construction project to begin on Idaho 75 between Bellevue and Hailey, the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) announced.
The resurfacing project, which will be conducted during the evening and night hours, is scheduled to begin July 8. Milling of the roadway and paving with two and a half inches of new asphalt will follow over the coming weeks.
The project will begin at the Spruce Street in Bellevue (milepost 112) to approximately the Fox Acres signal in Hailey (milepost 116).
One lane will be closed and a pilot car will be used to guide traffic through the construction zone during work hours, 7 p.m. to 6:30 a.m.
"We knew the road surface needed rehabilitation. Contending with traffic on the main artery of the Wood River Valley was something we had concerns with," ITD Resident Engineer Thomas Brown said. "By working at night, the commerce and commuter traffic that keeps the highway busy throughout the day shouldn't be affected as much and in the end we'll have the same result."
The rehabilitation project was delayed after the contract was awarded last fall because of an early arrival of cool temperatures. Minimum air and surface temperatures must be met when laying new asphalt, which is difficult to achieve during nighttime work.
Valley Paving of Bellevue was awarded the $1.25 million project.
Drivers are urged to be cautious when driving through the construction zone and to watch for construction crews and equipment when present. Speeding violations in construction zones carry enhanced penalties. ITD appreciates the patience and cooperation of those driving through the work zone.
For more information about construction projects on the state highway system, contact the 511 Traveler Services Web site, 511.idaho.gov or dial 5-1-1.