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ITD creates new information vehicle
for Congressional delegates

The Idaho Transportation Department is using the information highway to keep the state’s congressional leaders up to date on achievements and issues related to transportation in Idaho.

The department recently distributed, via e-mail attachment, the first issue of “Transportation News Quarterly” to Idaho’s four congressional delegates: Sen. Larry Craig, Sen. Mike Crapo, Rep. C.L. “Butch” Otter and Rep. Mike Simpson.

“This is the first of our periodic updates tailored to your particular information needs,” wrote ITD Director Dave Ekern in his introductory announcement. “It is intended to complement and draw from a variety of existing information sources in the department.

“Our ultimate goal is to keep you apprised of the issues and challenges we face in providing multimodal transportation options and share with you the many successes we are achieving with the federal funds you help provide for the citizens of Idaho.”

The first issue included stories of beginnings and endings – the launch of construction on two new U.S. 20 interchanges at Idaho Falls and the conclusion of the state’s largest construction project, the WYE Interchange in Boise.

It also included a summary of Idaho’s 2004 construction projects and a list of key department contacts.

“As you know, with reauthorization about to happen, we stand at a very important crossroads in Idaho,” Ekern continued. “Our economy demonstrates a steady recovery. Our population continues to grow at a surprising rate. We recently completed an intensive process to shape future transportation needs and chart a course to meet those demands.

“Our combined efforts help: