3/12/2014
Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov
Rock excavation in I-84 median east of Boise starts Friday
BOISE - Crews will excavate rock from the median in a two-mile section of Interstate 84 beginning Friday (March 14) as a project from last summer finishes east of Boise just west of the Stage Stop interchange.
The excavation, including blasting, will eliminate several basalt rock outcroppings in the median that contribute to run-off-the-road crashes. Wayward motorists hit the rocks, and suffer vehicle damage or injuries.
Crews will drill multiple holes in the basalt rock and insert explosives.
The speed limit will be reduced to 65 mph in the active work zone, with an eastbound lane closure.
Crews will work from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. through the end of May to complete the work.
During blasting, rolling traffic closures will keep motorists a safe distance from the blasts. There will be speed-limit reductions to 45 mph, resulting in increased travel time in a 12-mile section of seven minutes. Pilot cars will be used to guide motorists.