7/31/2009
Paving Blue Lakes begins Tuesday (Aug.4)
TWIN FALLS - The final phase of the reconstruction of Blue Lakes Boulevard is nearing an end with completion of storm water pipe installation and placement of the road bed in the northbound lanes. All that remains is paving and concrete work throughout the construction zone, according to the Idaho Transportation Department. Paving is expected to begin Tuesday (Aug. 4).
All pipe work wrapped up early in the week of July 27 and crews were nearly finished placing multiple layers of road base throughout the project during the last week.
Businesses and drivers should continue to expect limited closures to accesses within the corridor as the construction crews place the base material toward the southern end of the project at Falls Avenue. However, during paving, all east side access points will be inaccessible as the asphalt needs to be allowed to cool. Shoppers will be required to find alternate routes to businesses during the paving operation that is expected to last up to three days.
Before the northbound lanes can be opened to traffic, crews must finalize concrete work around man holes and water valves, pave business approaches, paint lines, and other minor details. The expected completion date is mid-August more than two months ahead of the contractors original schedule.
Until the work is finalized, drivers should watch for closed, shared and changing business accesses points on the east side of Blue Lakes throughout the construction zone. Drivers should also consider alternate routes to access businesses. Left hand turns on and off Blue Lakes are not allowed.
Watch for flaggers throughout the construction zone as trucks and equipment enter and exit the construction zone.
ITD and the Idaho State Police caution 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 on the state highway or interstate system.