2/12/2009
Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov
Blue Lakes Boulevard reconstruction to begin in March
TWIN FALLS - The reconstruction of Blue Lakes Boulevard is expected to begin in March with installation of a storm-water sewer system, the Idaho Transportation Department announced. In addition to a new base and road surface, work also will include replacement or service to utilities buried under the road.
The project, primarily between Falls Avenue and Pole Line Road, will begin with installation of the system, beginning at the Snake River Canyon rim and moving south into Blue Lakes Boulevard. Installation of the storm-water system is expected to begin the second week of March and will impact traffic in the southbound and center turn lanes.
The major road work - beginning at Pole Line Road and moving south toward Falls Avenue - is expected to begin in late April. One lane in each direction will remain open, with restricted or altered business access throughout the corridor during this phase of construction.
When complete, Blue Lakes will remain in its current alignment. Raised medians and additional lanes are not planned.
"This project is going to have a major impact on businesses and the traffic flow through the area, but there will be a slow build-up to the major reconstruction work," said resident engineer Kimbol Allen. "Everyone will need to make adjustments during construction but when it's complete, the road will continue to serve the public's needs for many years."
Western Construction of Boise is the contractor for the $4.6 million reconstruction.
The contractor will work closely with utility companies and businesses along Blue Lakes to coordinate service disruptions and changing business accesses.
The project has been in the planning stages since 2003 and included public meetings and collaboration with a Blue Lakes Boulevard corridor business advisory group.
Construction will continue through this summer and into the fall.