RIGBY - The new Interstate 15 interchange (Exit 167) west of Dubois, under construction since April 3, will open three weeks ahead of schedule on Thursday (Nov. 1), the Idaho Transportation Department announced.

The interchange bridge opened Oct. 15, but crews closed southbound I-15 on- and off-ramps for reconstruction. The transportation department will seal coat the new interchange next year.

Longer on- and off-ramps will improve truck turning, while a center turn lane and wide travel lanes on the overpass also will improve traffic safety and flow.

The new interchange benefits north-south traffic on I-15 and east-west traffic on Idaho 22.

Western Construction Inc., of Boise, was the contractor for the $4.4 million project.

Questions? Visit us online at itd.idaho.gov, follow ITD on Twitter (@IdahoITD) or Facebook and check travel conditions at 511.idaho.gov or dial 5-1-1. Please slow down in highway construction zones and pay attention. Safety for drivers and workers is our highest priority.