Idaho

Transportation Department

12/17/2012

Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov

Section of Highway 21 reopens as avalanche threat diminishes

BOISE COUNTY - The 12-mile stretch of Idaho 21 between the Grandjean Junction and Banner Summit,  closed since 7:30 this morning as an avalanche-safety precaution, reopened just before noon today (Monday, Dec. 17), the Idaho Transportation Department announced.

It was the first closure of this section of road this winter.

During avalanche season last year, there were eight closures between Nov. 1 and March 31,  totaling 21.5 days. A total of 50 slides tumbled down on the highway during that time.

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.