6/10/2009
Apparent low bidder announced for Ten Mile Interchange project
BOISE - Staker & Parsons Companies, dba Idaho Sand & Gravel Co., was the apparent low bidder yesterday for the Ten Mile Interchange project. The Idaho Transportation Department expects construction to begin in mid-July.
The low bid was $33.8 million.
The Ten Mile Interchange, scheduled to be completed in early summer 2011, will be the first new exit on Interstate 84 since the Karcher Interchange opened in 2006. It will help reduce growing congestion at the Garrity and Meridian interchanges.
Unlike previous interchanges, the Ten Mile Interchange was designed and advertised in less than three years.
"It can require up to eight years to design a new interchange, gain environmental approval and begin construction," said ITD Director Pam Lowe. "For this process to be complete in less than three years is a credit to outstanding teamwork between the engineering and environmental staff and project consultants."
The accelerated project schedule was driven in part by the expansion of Interstate 84. Construction began last spring on a third east- and westbound lane between the Garrity and Meridian interchanges. The first two miles of new lanes will open this summer.
The new Ten Mile Overpass will span 200 feet of I-84 to allow additional interstate lanes in each direction.
On- and off-ramps will connect with Ten Mile Road, which will be widened from two to four lanes with sidewalks and bicycle lanes. A single traffic signal will control all turning movements on the overpass.
Lochner of Meridian was the prime designer for the project. Connecting Idaho Partners of Boise completed right-of-way purchases.
Funding for the project comes from the GARVEE Transportation Program. The program uses Grant Anticipation Revenue Vehicle (GARVEE) bonds to expedite interstate improvements.