9/16/2011
Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov
I-84 Franklin Boulevard eastbound on-ramp to close for remainder of construction project in response to safety concerns
NAMPA - Motorists are advised that the Interstate 84 eastbound on-ramp at Nampa's Franklin Boulevard will close Sunday (Sept. 18) and remain closed for several months. The ramp will remain closed until early 2012, when the project to widen I-84 between the Franklin and Garrity interchanges is complete.
Motorists are advised to use an alternate route for eastbound interstate access, such as the Northside or Garrity interchange – each is approximately one mile from the Franklin interchange. Drivers are urged to allow extra time as they adjust to the new route.
The closure comes amid motorist concerns at this temporary construction on-ramp. Some crashes and near-accidents prompted the Idaho Transportation Department to take steps in the last several weeks to improve the safety at this location. However, safety concerns persisted despite these efforts. The need to ensure public safety outweighed the need to maintain freeway access and accommodate traffic flow, which ultimately drove the decision to close the ramp.
“We realize this is an inconvenience to motorists who will have to adjust their commute route,” says Dave Jones, ITD District Engineer for Southwest Idaho. “We looked at several options, and in the end, decided the best decision is to close the ramp. We appreciate people’s patience and understanding.”
The overall construction project is ahead of schedule, Jones notes. Originally planned for completion in summer 2012, the project is expected to be completed in early 2012.
The temporary on-ramp length and configuration is constrained by its proximity to the Phyllis Canal. However, the permanent on-ramp will have no constraints - it will extend on a new bridge over the Phyllis Canal and provide for a longer merging distance with I-84 traffic.
Crews are not permitted to begin construction on the bridge until after irrigation season and the canal is dry, which could be late October or early November.