9/27/2008
Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov
I-84 Saturday night complete closure avoided: Robinson Boulevard and Black Cat Road bridges both demolished Friday night
BOISE - The complete I-84 closure Saturday night between the Garrity and Meridian interchanges will not be needed after all, as the I-84 bridges at Robinson Boulevard and Black Cat Road were both demolished Friday night to maximize public convenience, the Idaho Transportation Department announced. There will still be intermittent lane restrictions in the area, however.
The bridges originally were scheduled to be torn down individually, resulting in two nights of closures on I-84. Instead, all work was completed Friday night.
"We received a proposal late Friday to mobilize additional equipment and accomplish both operations in one night," said Region 3 Engineer Shawna King. "The result is safety and convenience for motorists and surrounding residents."
The dual bridge demolition was the first step in a four-month project to reconstruct both overpasses while new lanes are constructed on I-84.
"Reconstructing both bridges at the same time allows us to greatly expedite the I-84 widening project," said ITD District 3 Engineer Dave Jones. "This project is crucial to relieving congestion in the Valley."
Graham Construction and Management of Spokane is the contractor for the $8.5 million bridge reconstruction project.
The project is funded through the GARVEE Transportation Program, which uses Grant Anticipation Revenue Vehicle (GARVEE) bonds to expedite I-84 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.