Where should weary travelers on U.S. 95 rest their bodies or pause for a picnic? The choices will expand when ITD constructs a new rest area between Lewiston and Grangeville in the near future, but a primary question remains…

Where should it be built? Near Cottonwood or Winchester?

Two sites for a proposed rest area are being considered. One is near Winchester, approximately 32 miles south of Lewiston at milepost 279. The other contending site is near Cottonwood, about 58 miles south of Lewiston (milepost 252). The rest area will be built on ITD property.

The public will have an opportunity to weigh in on the discussion when ITD conducts a hearing in Craigmont Tuesday, between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. at the city hall, 109 E. Main St. District 2 project personnel will be on hand to explain displays and answer questions. Judie Cahoon, an ITD hearing officer, will record oral testimony and receive written comments.

“Public interest in this project runs high,” says Kevin Lilly, District 2 project manager. “The district has used public meetings and questionnaires to get public input.”

Input is especially sought about location, design and potential environmental impacts of constructing a Camas Prairie rest area. Individuals unable to attend the hearing may submit written testimony until June 10 to Gwen Smith, ITD public involvement coordinator, at P.O. Box 7129, Boise, ID, 83703-1129.

An Environmental Assessment document prepared for the project is available for public review at the following locations:

Depending on the design selected, the project will cost between $1 million and $2 million.

Accommodations in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act will be provided upon request. To arrange for such accommodations, contact Smith at (208) 334-4444.