7/12/2006
Comments sought on draft of Statewide Transportation Improvement Program
BOISE - The draft Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) for fiscal years 2007-2011 is available statewide for public comment, the Idaho Transportation Department announced.
The document identifies approximately $1 billion in transportation-related projects planned for construction through the year 2011, plus those planned for the first two years of the Connecting Idaho program as authorized by the Idaho Legislature.
The STIP lists projects by highway route and location that are planned for each of the departments six administrative districts. It identifies projected years for right-of-way acquisition, preliminary engineering and construction as well as estimated project costs. The document lists construction projects on the state highway system, highway districts and cities, and includes aeronautics, public transportation and highway safety.
Production of the STIP is a year-round process that relies on extensive public involvement and input from transportation stakeholders, including metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs), elected city and county officials, constituent groups, and concerned citizens. Input helps the Idaho Transportation Board prioritize projects and identify new improvements to meet the needs of Idaho travelers.
Public comment on the Draft Fiscal Year 2007 2011 STIP will be accepted until Aug. 7. Response forms are included at the end of each section of the plan and should be returned to the respective ITD district. The contact person and address are listed at the top of each comment form.
In addition to project-related information, the STIP provides an overview of Connecting Idaho, a construction program that will rely on Grant Anticipation Revenue Vehicle (GARVEE) bonds to expedite projects in key Idaho corridors.
It also provides information on transportation funding and conclusions of the Forum on Transportation Investment, an independent initiative to identify alternatives to fund surface transportation projects over the next three decades.
Following the comment period, the Idaho Transportation Board will review the STIP recommendations and make a final decision this fall.
Copies of the draft STIP are available at the ITD district offices in Coeur d'Alene, Lewiston, Boise, Shoshone, Pocatello, and Rigby.
Individuals who want a copy of the document may contact the Division of Transportation Planning at (208) 332-7823, sonnalynn.fernandez@itd.idaho.gov , or P.O. Box 7129, Boise, ID 83707-1129. The draft STIP also is available online at www.itd.idaho.gov/planning/reports/stip/stipfirst.htm