2/23/2012
Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov
Avalanche-prone section of Idaho 21 reopens
BOISE COUNTY - The 12-mile stretch of Idaho 21 between the Grandjean Junction and Banner Summit reopened today (Thursday, Feb. 23) at 5:30 p.m. after being closed since Tuesday afternoon for avalanche activity, the Idaho Transportation Department announced.
Two slides, one at least 20 feet deep, came down on the highway during the closure. So far, 48 slides have tumbled down on the highway so far this winter. This was the fourth closure of this section of road so far this winter.
The notorious "Avalanche Alley" section between the Grandjean Junction turnoff and Banner Summit is home to about 60 avalanche chutes and 90 percent of the avalanches in the state that affect highways.
For the latest highway and weather conditions, call Idaho Traveler Services at 5-1-1. For online updates, visit the website at 511.idaho.gov. Telephone and Web reports are available 24 hours a day and are updated as conditions change.