8/15/2014
Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov
REMINDER: 10:16 a.m. ribbon cutting today celebrates Idaho 16 extension and bridge
BOISE - The ribbon cutting today (Friday, Aug. 15) for the
new Idaho 16 extension connecting State Street to Chinden Boulevard and
the rare north-south crossing of the Boise River in western Ada County
also will feature a glimpse of the historical perspectives and vision
that fueled the project.
Speeches will begin with former state
representative Kathy Skippen, who was a driving force behind an
extension of the highway and ambassador for the project. Next to speak
will be current Idaho Senator Chuck Winder, former Idaho Transportation
Board Chairman. Winder had a unique, inside look at the beginning of
project discussions, and as representative of the people for the last
several years, has fielded countless constituent questions. The final
speakers will be Idaho Lt. Governor Brad Little and Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter, who will frame the
project in terms of the importance of keeping up with or ahead of
addressing the infrastructure needs of the growing Treasure Valley, the
economic development and practical day-to-day advantages of extending
Idaho 16, and commitment to the project.
The event begins at 10:16 a.m., just south of the new bridge. Click here for a map of the event site.
People are invited to walk the new route starting at 9:30 a.m.
Drivers
wishing to attend the ceremony must enter from the Chinden end, which
intersects about two miles west of Ten Mile Road. Conversely, drivers
must travel to and use a right turn on State Street when exiting after
the ceremony. This is being done in the interest of safety
until traffic lights are fully operational in the afternoon. Law
enforcement will be on hand to ensure compliance and to guide
motorists.
At the conclusion of the event, Valley
Corvettes will provide rides for the event speakers, elected
representatives and community leaders to be the first group to cross the new
bridge and drive on the new Idaho 16 alignment. The new route will
officially open to traffic prior to the evening’s commute.
With the huge bridge across the Boise River and the connections to State and Chinden complete, supporters envision the highway eventually connecting Emmett with Interstate 84.