7/12/2012
Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov
Seal coats on highways in Ada, Elmore and Payette counties begin July 23
BOISE - Traffic impacts begin July 23 on a series of seal coats applied to sections of several highways in southwest Idaho to extend the life of roadways and provide greater traction for motorists.
This batch of projects is expected to finish in late September, the Idaho Transportation Department announced.
• Idaho 69, Orchard Ave. in Kuna to I-84 ramps in Meridian (starts approx. July 23)
• U.S. 30, through New Plymouth from the junction of U.S. 30 and U.S. 95 on the west side of town (between New Plymouth and Fruitland) to the junction of U.S. 30 and Idaho 72 on the south end of town (approx. July 30)
• Idaho 21, Gowen Interchange (Exit 54) to Lucky Peak Reservoir Bridge (approx. Aug. 1)
• I-84, Broadway (Exit 54) to Eisenman interchanges (Exit 60) (approx. Aug. 9)
• I-84B, between Canyon Creek and 18th Street (Exit 94) overpasses, Mountain Home (approx. Aug. 16)
• U.S. 20, Mountain Home city limits to Boise National Forest boundary (approx. Aug. 17)
Seal coating begins by applying a layer of asphalt, then a cover coat of gravel on the roadway surface. The highway is rolled and traffic allowed on to the roadway to help pack the surface before "brooming" or sweeping to remove excess gravel. Seal coats are typically applied on asphalt roads every 7–10 years.
A properly applied seal coat can add several years of service to a heavily traveled roadway by sealing the surface and adding roughness for winter traction.
The work is done during the day to allow heat to help asphalt and rock bond more quickly to the roadway surface, providing a higher-quality finished product.
The speed limit will be reduced in the work zone, and motorists should expect delays of up to 15 minutes. Flaggers and pilot cars will be used as needed.
Sierra Nevada Construction Inc., of Sparks, Nev., is the contractor on this $2.82-million project.