9/9/2008
Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov
I-84 westbound lanes between Locust Grove and Black Cat overpasses will be shifted as early as Thursday night (Sept. 11)
BOISE - Westbound traffic on I-84 will be shifted onto temporary pavement in the median between the Locust Grove and Black Cat overpasses as early as Thursday night (Sept. 11), the Idaho Transportation Department announced.
The transportation department reminds motorists to use extra caution while traveling the area. The lane shift will be in effect for two to three months while crews rebuild existing westbound lanes as part of the I-84, Garrity to Meridian widening project. The reconstructed lanes will be open to traffic in late fall.
To allow for the lane shift, the westbound on-ramp at the Meridian Interchange will be closed overnight while crews modify the ramp to tie into the westbound lane shift. The ramp closures are anticipated the nights of Thursday (Sept. 11) and Friday (Sept. 12) between 8 p.m. and 7 a.m.
Local traffic will be detoured to the Eagle Interchange westbound on-ramp.
Nighttime lane closures on I-84 will continue through September. At least one lane of traffic in each direction is typically open between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. on weekdays and between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
Two lanes in each direction are open during the day. The speed limit is 55 mph and shoulders are restricted in the Garrity to Meridian project area.
As part of the widening project, the Robinson and Black Cat bridges will be closed for four months starting Sept. 26. The current bridge columns are too close together to safely accommodate additional lanes on I-84.
The I-84, Garrity to Meridian project will result in six lanes and a median barrier between the Garrity and Meridian interchanges. The project is expected to be complete in 2010.
It is part of a series of improvements in the GARVEE Transportation Program, which 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 driving information on the state highway or interstate system.
Note to Editors: A graphic illustration of the lane shift is available for publication here. Please call the ITD Office of Communications at 334-8005 to request a copy.
