6/2/2009
Road construction on U.S. 93 to begin 24-hour operations
SHOSHONE -- Reconstruction of a portion of U.S. 93 north of Richfield moved into overdrive beginning this week with the start of a 24-hour work schedule, the Idaho Transportation Department announced.
U.S. 93 is reduced to one lane from the north end of Richfield to its intersection with Pagari Road (between mileposts 182 and 189) for road construction. Crews are blasting and excavating rock for realignment of the highway.
Drivers are asked to watch for flaggers. A pilot car will guide traffic through the construction zone, and a 45-mph speed limit is in effect. Delays of 15 minutes can be expected, with longer delays possible during blasting operations. Drivers should be prepared for varied lane changes.
In addition, a 12-foot width restriction remains in effect throughout the construction zone.
Western Construction Inc. of Boise is the contractor for the $3.5 million project. Because of the width restrictions on U.S. 20 west of Carey, any permitted over-legal loads should use U.S. 93. Drivers are required give 24-hour notice to ITD in Shoshone (208-886-7800).
ITD and the Idaho State Police advise 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 about construction projects on state highways or the interstate system.