6/14/2011
Seal coat projects throughout south-central Idaho begin this week
SHOSHONE – Drivers are reminded to use caution through a multi-site construction zone with the start of seal-coat projects in Elmore, Gooding and Lincoln counties over the next three weeks, the Idaho Transportation Department announced.
Crews will begin with the project on U.S. 93/26 for about 14 miles north from Richfield on Wednesday (June 15). The seal coat will cover the roadway, which was reconstructed in 2009 and 2010, and will help preserve and extend the life of the roadway. Crews will move the operation to U.S. 20 in eastern Elmore County between Cat Creek Summit and the Camas County line as soon as next week. The project will end with completion of the seal coat on Idaho 46 and U.S. 26 through the town of Gooding.
The speed limit will be reduced to 45 mph through the construction zone to accommodate lane closures and loose gravel. Each section of road will be reduced to one lane in each direction as crews coat the roadway with rubberized oil and rock chips. Drivers should watch for flaggers. A pilot car will be used to shuttle traffic through the work zone.
Lane restrictions will be in effect between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. Speed restrictions will remain in place until loose gravel is swept from the roadway and striping has been complete.
Following posted speed limits will reduce the risk of windshield damage caused by the loose gravel. Drivers are encouraged to use an alternative route if possible.
Emery Brothers, of Twin Falls, is the contractor for the $634,000 project.