8/14/2008
Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov
Reconstruction of I-84, Franklin Boulevard Bridge in Nampa to begin late August - open house Tuesday (Aug. 19)
BOISE - A 43-year-old section of the Franklin Boulevard Bridge over I-84 in Nampa will be reconstructed beginning in late August, the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) announced. The public is invited to learn more about the project at an open house on Tuesday (Aug. 19).
The east half of the bridge, built in 1965, will be reconstructed to match the west half rebuilt in 1999. The work is expected to be complete in June of 2009 and will allow future I-84 widening between the Franklin Boulevard and Garrity Boulevard interchanges in Nampa.
The open house will provide details about construction and traffic control plans. The event will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. at Elmers Restaurant in Nampa (1411 Shilo Drive).
In late August or early September, crews will demolish the east half of the bridge. Demolition is expected to take about one week. Nighttime noise is expected to increase in the project area during this time.
Beginning in late August:
- Traffic will be restricted to one lane in each direction on the bridge.
- The I-84 speed limit will be reduced to 55 mph in the project area.
- Brief nighttime I-84 lane and ramp closures at the Franklin Boulevard Interchange will occur on occasion.
- Two lanes in each direction on I-84 will typically remain open.
Concrete Placing Co. of Boise is the contractor for the $3.1 million bridge reconstruction project.
Future I-84 widening between the Franklin and Garrity interchanges in Nampa is anticipated to begin in late 2010 or early 2011 and will depend on funding through the GARVEE Transportation Program.
The I-84, Franklin Boulevard Bridge project is part of a series of interstate improvements planned for I-84 between Caldwell and Meridian through the GARVEE Transportation Program. The program uses Grant Anticipation Revenue Vehicle (GARVEE) bonds to expedite interstate improvements.
ITD and the Idaho State Police warn motorists to slow down and pay attention when driving in work zones, where increased speeding fines and other penalties apply. Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead and dial 5-1-1 or visit 511.idaho.gov for information on the state highway or interstate system.