New underpass in Moscow unveiled in May

While the department’s focus is usually centered on vehicles, this spring ITD engineers helped the Local Highway Technical Assistance Council oversee construction of a new underpass at Idaho Highway 8 and Styner Avenue in Moscow.

The city unveiled the path with a grand-opening ceremony, celebrating it as a safer route for bicyclists and pedestrians while also improving mobility for the motorized traffic above.

D2 Traffic Engineer Jared Hopkins served as the ITD point of contact for University of Idaho students who designed the structure in 2011.

“Alternative methods of transportation are important, especially in Moscow,” Hopkins said. “It was great to work with students on a project that will have a positive impact on the community.”

The city identified the underpass as necessary to reaching downtown, the UI campus, medical services and retail centers in its multi-modal transportation plan. It links to several other paths, including the Latah Trail to the east and the Bill Chipman Trail to the west.

An ITD Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grant of $500,000 led to the new feature, with $24,000 contributed by the city and $15,000 by the Moscow Urban Renewal Agency. 

“The city really pushed this project through with their continued effort, so they should really get the credit,” District Engineer Doral Hoff said.

Published 06-28-19