11/21/2022
Justin Smith
ITD Communication
208-234-3614
justin.smith@itd.idaho.gov
Construction continues during holiday season
POCATELLO – As the holiday season goes into full swing motorists will notice something different as they pass through East Idaho to visit family and friends - work zones. With historic investment in highways the Idaho Transportation Department is continuing construction this winter at the System Interchange in Pocatello, Exit 80 at Fort Hall, and on a bridge at Arimo. That means vacationers will need to be more cautious while driving this year.
“We just want everyone to be safe,” says Engineer Manager, Aaron Baird. That means slowing down in work zones, planning for a little extra time to get to your destination, and being patient with other drivers.
“It’s also really important that locals tell their families what to expect so they can plan,” said Baird. In addition, ITD’s 511 phone app and the associated 511.idaho.gov website are important tools that can inform drivers about road conditions, closures, detours, and other events that can impact travel.
Idaho winter driving can be especially challenging for new drivers or those who are not used to winter driving conditions. Sharing the following tips can help families and friends arrive safely for the holiday.
- Have a winter emergency kit in each vehicle. https://itd.idaho.gov/news/idaho-ready-pack-your-winter-car-emergency-kit/
- Check road conditions on the 511 app and the weather forecast to determine the best times to drive. https://511.idaho.gov/
- Slow down in work zones to protect workers and give yourself more time to react to changes in the traffic pattern.
- Move over for emergency and work vehicles.
- Do not pass snowplows on the right. When plows are operating the safest place to be is behind a plow as they clear the road for you.
- Try to avoid driving in the evening or early morning when ice is more likely, and animals may be on the roadway.
- Give other drivers additional room so you have more time to react should something unexpected happen.
The most important thing to remember is that the goal is to get safely to your destination, not to shave a minute or two off the drive by speeding or taking other unnecessary risks.
