4/16/2009
Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov
UPDATE: Orchard Street lane restrictions to continue through April 23
BOISE - The lane restrictions for Orchard Street motorists that began this morning will continue from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays through Thursday (April 23), the Idaho Transportation Department announced.
Crews are relocating a water line north of the Orchard Interchange, but will not restrict traffic this weekend (April 18-19).
Motorist traveling north on Orchard Street will be restricted to one lane for 300 feet just north of the interchange on weekdays. On weekends all lanes will be open.
Work hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays.
Speed limits on Orchard Street, Wright Street and Victory Road will change to 25 mph.
The Idaho Transportation Department is building a new bridge and ramps to replace the 1965 structure and make way for new lanes underneath. The new bridge will have eight lanes with longer turn lanes, and on- and off-ramps will be longer and wider.
The project includes reconfiguring parts of Wright Street and Victory Road to improve traffic flow south of the interchange. Traffic updates will be posted to www.itd.idaho.gov under Projects, Southwest Idaho and I-84, Orchard Street Interchange.
Construction is expected to be complete in Spring 2010.
The $15.1 million project is funded through the GARVEE Transportation Program, which uses Grant Anticipation Revenue Vehicle (GARVEE) bonds to expedite interstate improvements.
McAlvain Group of Companies Inc. is the contractor for the I-84, Orchard Interchange Project.
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.