9/19/2008
Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov
Preliminary work for Orchard Interchange reconstruction to begin Sunday (Sept. 21)
BOISE - Eastbound I-84 traffic near the Orchard Street Interchange will be restricted to one lane at night from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. beginning Sunday (Sept. 21) and lasting approximately one week, the Idaho Transportation Department announced.
Crews will begin widening an I-84 bridge over the New York Canal (just east of the interchange) to allow new ramp lanes at the Orchard Street Interchange.
The transportation department advises motorists to plan ahead for the following impacts through the spring of 2009:
- The speed limit on I-84 will be reduced to 55 mph;
- Highway shoulders will be restricted in the area;
- Intermittent daytime noise and occasional nighttime noise is expected;
- Occasional nighttime lane closures are expected (10 p.m. to 5 a.m. on weekdays and 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. on weekends).
Work on the New York Canal Bridge will be complete in the spring of 2009.
Concrete Placing Company Inc. of Boise is the contractor for the $4.6 million project.
Reconstruction of the Orchard Interchange is scheduled to begin later this fall.
The projects are part of a series of improvements planned for I-84 between the Cole and Broadway interchanges through the GARVEE Transportation Program. The program uses Grant Anticipation Revenue Vehicle (GARVEE) bonds to expedite highway improvements.
ITD and the Idaho State Police caution 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.