5/31/2011
Federal highway agency approves Idaho 16 extension
BOISE - The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) approved a new highway extension that will eventually connect Idaho 16 to Interstate 84, the Idaho Transportation Department announced.
FHWA issued the formal environmental approval document, known as a Record of Decision, on the project. That decision authorizes the transportation department to proceed with design, land acquisition and construction as funding becomes available.
The Record of Decision confirms the selected alternative best meets the purpose for a new highway that connects Idaho 16 to Interstate 84. The project will involve building a new bridge over the Boise River, south of Idaho 44. To view a map of the extension, please visit: http://www.itd.idaho.gov/Projects/garvee/D3/Idaho16Materials/Selected%20Alternative.pdf
As western Ada County and eastern Canyon County develop, the ability to move north- and south-bound traffic is a primary concern. The new extension will provide a vital north-south link in the Treasure Valley.
The project features include:
- Four lanes - two in each direction.
- Interchanges at I-84, Franklin Road, Ustick Road, U.S. 20-26 and Idaho 44.
- Bridges over Union Pacific Railroad tracks, an existing creek, canals and the Boise River.
- Improvements to existing local roads and construction of new local roads to maintain access.
The project will be built in phases. The initial phase will be the 2.7-mile section between U.S. 20-26 and Idaho 44, including a bridge over the Boise River. Construction will begin in early 2012. The initial construction includes signalized intersections at U.S. 20-26 and Idaho 44. Full interchanges with on- and off-ramps at U.S. 20-26 and Idaho 44 will be part of a later construction phase. Funding for the interchanges and the remainder of the project are not programmed yet.
The environmental planning for the Idaho 16 project began in late 2007. The recent Record of Decision marks the completion of the process in approximately half the time that similar projects take nationally.
Additional project information is available at www.itd.idaho.gov. Select "Projects," then "Southwest Idaho," then "Idaho 16, I-84 to Idaho 44 Environmental Study."