6/4/2015
Paving project begins Monday between Wendell and Gooding
GOODING – A project to improve roadway smoothness and increase life expectancy on about 10 miles of Idaho 46, between Wendell and Gooding, will begin Monday (June 8), the Idaho Transportation Department announced.
The project will apply an asphalt-mix overlay from the north end of Wendell to the city of Gooding and will include a short portion of U.S. 26. In the areas of curb and gutter around the intersection of Idaho 46 (Main Street) and U.S. 26 (University Avenue), the project will remove and replace about two inches of asphalt mix before repaving the roadway. Work will also include milling of bridge decks within the project limits to apply a waterproof seal on the concrete before repaving.
Depending on weather, the contractor will complete a pavement test strip on Monday at about milepost 103 near the Wendell waste transfer station. Pending an approved test strip, roadway paving will start at Wendell and work north toward Gooding.
During the paving project, the roadway will be reduced to one lane. During work hours drivers should watch for flaggers and a pilot car will be in operation. Traffic delays of 15 minutes may be experienced and a 13-foot width restriction will be in effect. Drivers are encouraged to use an alternate route.
Drivers are reminded to watch for construction equipment entering and exiting the work area and to be cautious of uneven pavement until the conclusion of the project.
Paving is expected to be complete by the end of June. The project will also include application of a chip-seal coat expected to be completed before the end of August. Western Construction Inc., of Boise, is the contractor for the $2.16 million roadway project.