5/15/2009
Soft spots prompt new weight, speed restrictions on U.S. 20-26 west of Idaho National Laboratory
RIGBY - Soft spots in the construction zone on U.S. 20/26 west of the Idaho National Laboratory prompted new weight and speed restrictions, effective immediately, the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) announced.
Trucks are restricted to legal weights, and traffic is limited to 35 mph. Crews are repaving 19 miles of U.S. 20/26 from east of Butte City to its junction with the Idaho National Laboratory access highway.
During construction, motorists can expect delays of up to 15 minutes. Travel is reduced to one lane, with flaggers directing traffic through the work zone.
Commercial vehicles have a width restriction of 12 feet.
Work hours on the project are weekdays between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
The road base is soft and susceptible to sinking, especially where the pavement ends. Motorists, particularly trucker drivers and motorcyclists, are advised to drive with care.
The construction project will improve safety and comfort for motorists and extend the life of the highway surface. It is scheduled for completion by mid‑September.
The $5.6 million project is being constructed by H‑K Contractors Inc. of Idaho Falls.
For construction information on state highways, access the Idaho Traveler Services Web site at 511.idaho.gov, or dial 5‑1‑1 from phones within Idaho. Outside Idaho, dial toll‑free (888) 432‑7623. Reports are updated as conditions change.