6/2/2009
Construction under way on northbound, southbound I-15
RIGBY - Construction on southbound and northbound Interstate 15 is under way, the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) announced.
Crews will repave, seal-coat and install rumble strips (raised or grooved patterns placed primarily along paved shoulders as a safety feature) along eight miles of southbound lanes on I-15 from the Osgood Interchange to the Roberts Interchange and along seven miles of northbound lanes on I-15 from the Sage Junction Interchange to the Hamer Interchange. The projects will improve safety and comfort for motorists and will extend the life of the highway surface.
After applying the seal coats, crews will paint yellow centerlines, white edge stripes and add other pavement markings. Construction began Monday (June 1).
Travel in construction zones will be reduced to one lane in each direction, with the speed limit reduced to 55 mph. Work will take place on weekdays between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. The project is scheduled for completion by late August.
ITD awarded H‑K Contractors Inc. of Idaho Falls the $3.4 million contract.
The transportation department urges motorists to drive carefully in and near construction zones. Orange highway signs with black letters or symbols and orange flags indicate construction activity ahead, even if the work cannot be observed immediately. Drivers should anticipate merging traffic, construction personnel and equipment, flaggers and pilot cars, and can experience uneven surfaces in construction areas.
The Idaho State Police reminds motorists that fines may double for work zone traffic violations. 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 road conditions change.