Untitled Document

Burying the last stoplight on I-90

…the last remaining stoplight on Interstate 90 between Seattle and Boston.

In a funeral service suited for royalty – or at least a community pillar – the last stoplight on the interstate route was laid to rest in a cold grave near Wallace in September 1991. Idaho Transportation Department representatives joined local dignitaries in the formal funeral service.

The signal was removed following completion of the Wallace Viaduct, an elevated route above the historic mining community west of Coeur d’Alene. With the final tribute complete, motorists were given clear and virtually unimpeded cross-continent travel between the port cities.

Even 14 years after the festive farewell to the stoplight, the event still garners national attention. ITD recently forwarded a photo of the stoplight burial to the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials for possible inclusion in “Celebrate the Interstate” 2006 calendar.

AASHTO wanted to introduce the calendar at its annual meeting later this month.

“The photo… has drawn many complimentary remarks among AASHTO staff,” said Executive Director John Horsley in a letter to ITD director Dave Ekern. “We are delighted to bestow one of our highest contest awards to such a fine and creative entry.”

The photo will be featured in the calendar that will be available this fall. ITD Director Dave Ekern will receive a complimentary copy.