8/12/2005
Construction update for south-central Idaho Aug. 12-Aug. 19
SHOSHONE - Here is the construction update for south-central Idaho for Aug.12-Aug. 19:
U.S. 93 Twin Falls Alternate Route Stage 1: Utility trenching, on the south side of Pole Line Road from Key Bank to Fillmore Street and then the north side of Pole Line Road from Fillmore Street to Washington Street, began Tuesday (Aug. 2). A few businesses along this section will experience brief restrictions to their accesses. Utility crews are expected to complete trenching by Aug. 22.
Blasting will take place as part of the utility work throughout the construction corridor over the next few weeks. Flaggers will direct traffic through the blast areas when necessary. Motorists should anticipate delays of up to 10 minutes. The use of alternate routes around the construction zone is encouraged.
Idaho 77, Declo to Albion: This road reconstruction project begins five miles south of Declo and continues to Albion (mileposts 18-23). Vehicles wider than 12 feet are required to detour around the work areas using Idaho 81 from Declo to Malta, and then Idaho 77 from Malta to Albion. Delays of up to 10 minutes are possible. The speed limit is 35 mph, and traffic is reduced to one lane. This project, expected to be complete in October, will create a smoother and safer road surface.
Idaho 77, City of Rocks Backcountry Byway: This reconstruction project from Idaho 77 to Almo (7.5 miles east of Malta) involves a detour, using 2975 South Road, 750 East Road, and 2800 South Road. Delays of 15 minutes are expected. Work is scheduled for completion by the end of September.
U.S. 93, Salmon Falls Creek Canal Bridge: Crews are paving bridge approaches to prepare for expansion of the U.S. 93 Salmon Falls Creek Canal Bridge, about two miles south of Hollister (milepost 25). Flaggers will direct motorists through the work zone.
Delays of up to 10 minutes can be expected. The speed limit through the work zone is reduced to 50 mph, and vehicles are limited to a maximum width of 14 feet. Crews will work weekdays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., although inclement weather could result in some weekend work. Motorists are reminded to slow down in highway construction zones. The project is expected to be complete by late August. The transportation department is working in cooperation with the Idaho State Police on this project. A patrolman will be present at the construction site to monitor and enforce speed limits as part of Idaho's enhanced work zone safety program.