4/28/2009
Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov
Pavement improvement project on State, Glenwood begins May 4
BOISE - State and Glenwood streets (Idaho 44) through Garden City and Eagle will be a smoother, safer place to drive, following completion of an Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) six-week project to repair and resurface the road beginning Monday (May 4).
The stretch of Idaho 44 being repaired extends 3.75 miles, and includes State Street from Idaho 55 to Glenwood Street, and Glenwood from State to Chinden Boulevard (U.S. 20/26). The roadway is deteriorated, cracked and rutted. This project will significantly extend the life of the roadway and result in a smoother ride for motorists.
"Our crews will work an extremely aggressive schedule which includes overnight and weekend shifts," said Merrill Sharp, ITD construction manager. "This get-in, get-out approach will allow us to complete the project in less than half the time of crews working only during the day. Our priority is to keep traffic flowing safely, while completing the project quickly."
During peak commuter hours (5:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. weekdays), two lanes will remain open in each direction. At all other times, at least one lane in each direction will remain open. Access will remain open to businesses and residents in the construction area. Motorists can expect lane restrictions and minor delays. The speed limit through the work zone will be reduced to 35 mph.
Central Paving Co. Inc. Boise is the contractor on this $4.4 million project.
ITD and law enforcement officials 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.
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MEDIA OPPORTUNITY: This Thursday (April 30), ITD and a uniformed Garden City Police officer will be available between 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. for interviews and demonstrations on improvements coming to State, Glenwood and Chinden streets as the agencies work together to reduce accidents along the heavily traveled corridor. To reserve a time for interviews and video, please contact ITD's June Sparks or Reed Hollinshead at 334-8005 for more information.
"These safety improvements will reduce accidents and injuries in the very locations where we see a history of accidents," said Deputy Chief Rick Allen, Garden City Police Department. "Our number one priority is safety, and we appreciate ITD making these changes, which we believe will result in saving lives."