Transportation Department Begins Summer Construction in I-15

Summer construction season is here and soon motorists will see orange cones on highways across the state. Drivers in east Idaho will see multiple projects as the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) repaves several sections of Interstate 15.

With nine separate projects along the interstate, ITD reminds drivers to slow down and put away the distractions — for their safety and the safety of construction workers. This is all part of a nationwide effort to improve work zone safety.

“Safety is our highest priority at ITD,” said ITD District 5 Engineering Manager Dan Harelson. “Our message to motorists during I-15 construction is to plan extra time to drive through the area, slow down and pay attention to signage.”

The Federal Highway Administration reported that in 2014, distracted driving was a factor in 16 percent of fatal crashes in work zones. Speeding was a factor in 29 percent of crashes.

“Our crews will often be working near live traffic during construction. It is so important for motorists to drive with caution and watch for new traffic patterns in the work zone,” said Matt Abrams of Knife River Construction. Knife River is the contractor for the I-15, Fort Hall to Burns Road project, which is scheduled to begin in mid-April.

ITD will continue to update the community as the I-15 projects begin. To sign up for email notices about construction on I-15, text INTERSTATE15 to 22828. Details also will be posted to www.itd.idaho.gov/I-15construction.

Construction on I-15 includes resurfacing 44 miles of pavement, fixing deteriorating concrete and guardrails on bridges, improving bridge clearance and replacing sign structures. ITD plans to invest $95 million into I-15 improvements in 2017 and 2018, and construction is expected to continue for the next several years.