11/1/2017
Speed limit to be raised Nov. 7 across new Big Wood River bridge south of Ketchum
KETCHUM – Following reconstruction of the Big Wood River bridge, and an engineering traffic study of the new section of road, the speed limit for about three-quarters of a mile of Idaho Highway 75 will increase by 10 mph from between Hospital Drive and Elkhorn Road.
On Tuesday (Nov. 7), work will take place to extend the 45-mph speed zone north across the new Big Wood River bridge. The speed limit will remain 35-mph from near Elkhorn Road north into Ketchum.
The current speed limit remains in effect until the new signs have been installed.
The engineering traffic study was conducted following the construction of the new bridge. Reconstruction of the bridge was completed in September and numerous requests for an increased speed limit soon followed. The new section of roadway improved roadway safety with addition of a second lane in each direction and wider shoulders.
In accordance with federal guidelines, ITD uses the 85th percentile speed of free-flowing traffic for determining a safe and reasonable speed for a majority of drivers and to assist Idaho law enforcement. The engineering study results and recommendations were reviewed by law enforcement prior to approval.
The average daily traffic for the section of road varies from 8,000 to 15,000 vehicles per day with volumes peaking in the summer.