10/19/2011
Weekend work allowed for Idaho 75 road project
HAILEY – Due to a slowdown in weekend activities and the need to complete the project before winter weather strikes, work on the Idaho 75 resurfacing project between Hailey and Ketchum will be allowed to take place over the weekend, the Idaho Transportation Department announced.
Work has been suspended every weekend since the project began in late August. Based on contract requirements agreed upon by the Blaine County Transportation Committee, work has been restricted to Monday through Friday to avoid interfering with weekend events. However, with a shortening window to complete the work before winter weather hits – and with fewer weekend activities – the work schedule now includes weekends.
On weekdays, crews cannot work between 6:30 a.m. and 9 a.m. to avoid interference with morning commuter traffic. In addition, traffic will not be detoured after dark.
By the start of next week, the only portion of the project which will remain is from River Street in Ketchum south to the Big Wood River bridge.
Crews will continue to mill and pave the roadway daily as weather allows until the project is complete, but temperatures are already cool enough to restrict the hours of operation. Although milling can take place at any temperature, paving can only take place while air temperature is 40 degrees or warmer, which does not occur until at least midmorning on most days.
Traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction during both processes. Two lanes will remain open on Idaho 75 through the three-lane sections. A detour for southbound traffic will be in effect through the two-lane section between River Street and Serenade Lane. Drivers are asked to follow reduced speed limits and use caution through lane restrictions. Drivers should watch for flaggers and be prepared for daily route changes as work progresses.