12/19/2008
Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov
Three Mile Ditch extension project expected to begin Monday (Dec. 22)
BOISE - Construction to extend reinforced concrete pipes that pass under I-84 near the Orchard Interchange will begin Monday (Dec. 22), the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) announced.
The project will add an additional 80 feet to both the north and south ends of two existing pipes that are part of the Three Mile Ditch, creating twin 202-foot pipes under I-84.
The pipe-extension project will take place within the ITD right-of-way and the temporary construction easements purchased from the Dennis Dillon Auto Park and from the City of Boise Airport.
The work can be performed only when the ditch is not being used to transfer irrigation water, so it is necessary to take advantage of the 2008-2009 winter irrigation hiatus for construction.
The work is scheduled to be completed by Feb. 27, 2009.
Construction fencing will be installed along the temporary construction easement boundary so that controlled access to I-84 will be maintained at all times during the work.
The speed limit for both I-84 eastbound and westbound lanes is currently reduced to 55 mph to accommodate construction of the New York Canal project. These speed reductions will remain in place for the Three Mile Ditch work. In addition, the right shoulders of the I-84 westbound on-ramp and the I-84 eastbound off-ramp will be partially closed.
Normal work will occur during the day from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday. When it is necessary to install and remove temporary traffic control, work will occur overnight from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.
The contractor will not work on Christmas (Thursday, Dec. 25) or on New Years Day (Jan. 1) in observance of those holidays.
The Three Mile Ditch project is not expected to effect the 2009 Special Olympics World Winter Games, which are scheduled Feb. 6-13, 2009. Lane closures will be prohibited during that time.
This project is part of the work being performed on I-84 between Cole Road and Eisenman Road by the GARVEE Transportation Program, which uses Grant Anticipation Revenue Vehicle (GARVEE) bonds to expedite interstate improvements.
The contractor is Concrete Placing Co. Inc. of Boise.
ITD and the Idaho State Police advise 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.