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Public reviews options for new I-84 segment

Proposed and planned changes to the Interstate 84 corridor near Boise were shown to the public Wednesday when ITD held both a public hearing and public meeting at the Holiday Inn – Airport in Boise.

More than 100 people attended the combined open-house-style event and learned more about a project to build sound walls on westbound I-84 between the Cole Interchange and Broadway Interchange. People also had the opportunity to submit comments on the Environmental Assessment (EA) and possible improvements for the I-84 Orchard Interchange to Gowen Interchange Project.

Information about the sound walls included full-size displays illustrating wall designs and aerial maps showing locations for the structures that will be built in stages. Funding for the project will come from the GARVEE (Grant Anticipation Revenue Vehicle) Transportation Program, which allows Idaho to use bond proceeds for needed highway projects.

The I-84 Orchard Interchange to Gowen Interchange Project will add new lanes and will reconstruct existing lanes and interchanges at Orchard, Vista, Broadway and Gowen in order to improve traffic flow between the Orchard and Eisenman Interchanges along I-84. People attending the public hearing provided testimony on the EA and the recommended Build Alternatives for the project.

Mounted displays and video monitor stations showed the completed project. Consultants and ITD staff were available to answer questions.

Interested parties can view the EA at the following Boise locations: Boise Public Library (715 S. Capitol Blvd.), Boise City Hall (150 N. Capitol Blvd.), Idaho Transportation Department District 3 (8420 Chinden Blvd.), Idaho Transportation Department Headquarters (3311 W. State St.) and Federal Highway Administration Offices (3050 N. Lakeharbor Lane, Suite 126).

The EA is also available online at www.itd.idaho.gov; click on Get Involved; select Southwest Idaho; choose I-84 Orchard to Gowen.

Those unable to attend the hearing still can to send comments to: ITD Public Involvement Coordinator, P.O. Box 7129, Boise, ID 83707-1129, by Wednesday, Aug. 29.