9/22/2015
Highway resurfacing project begins Thursday near Rupert
RUPERT – A resurfacing project is expected to begin later this week on a two-mile section of Idaho 24 and will affect traffic for approximately one month. The project consists of applying a thin asphalt overlay to the roadway surface, which is expected to improve roadway smoothness and increase life expectancy.
The work will begin with project preparation Thursday (Sept. 24) on Idaho 24 between the B and B-2 canal bridges northeast of Rupert. Roadway milling and a test strip will begin Sept. 28 and, with a passing test strip, the contractor will begin paving the remainder of the project area later in the week.
During all construction activities, the roadway will be reduced to one lane. During work hours — 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday — drivers should watch for flaggers, and a pilot car will be in operation. Traffic delays of 15 minutes may be experienced and a 12-foot width restriction will be in effect. Drivers are encouraged to use an alternate route.
The project was originally scheduled to be funded and constructed in 2016. The project is one of 27 statewide projects advanced by the Idaho Transportation Board in May, based on readiness and matching criteria for critical need to maintain or repair state highways and bridges. The projects take advantage of increased funding allocated by the Idaho Legislature earlier this year.
Western Construction Inc., of Boise, is the contractor for the $686,000 roadway-maintenance project. The work is expected to be complete by the end of October.