9/4/2015
Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov
Travelers in north-central Idaho region asked to be mindful of fire-fighting efforts
LEWISTON - The Idaho Transportation Department and local law enforcement agencies remind drivers and travelers in Idaho’s north-central region to be mindful of fire crews and fire-fighting efforts during this Labor Day holiday weekend.
ITD has suspended road work at locations in and near wildfire hot spots to not impede fire-fighting efforts, and for the convenience of travelers in the area.
Although ITD is not currently flagging traffic in support of fire crews, the agency remains on call to do so. Most public-land wooded areas are closed due to fire concerns. Electronic message signs are in use at various locations in the region to warn drivers of these conditions.
Drivers are asked to be aware that fire crews could be entering or exiting roadways in the area suddenly.
ITD and the Lewis County Sheriff also remind travelers to be aware of rockfall along U.S. 12 in the area just northwest of Kamiah, from milepost 61 to milepost 65.
This area suffered a severe burn just a few weeks ago, eliminating much of the vegetation which traditionally anchors the rocks in place on the hillside. Without that anchor, rocks and woody debris are frequently tumbling to the road.