BOISE, Idaho — You've no doubt seen the construction driving by as crews continue to work on ITD's massive extension of Highway 16.
The project, which has been in the works for years, will extend State Highway 16 from State Street to I-84.
Progress on the extension has been steady, with another section of the highway set to open later this year.
"In the full configuration for State Highway 16, it will operate like the interstates," ITD engineer Dan Gorley said.
The project is being done in three phases. Phase 1 built the stretch of highway from State Street to Chinden and was completed in 2014.
ITD is currently in phase 2, which is broken up into sections and will add about 4.5 miles of highway from Chinden to I-84. The phase will also add a new interchange at I-84, and several other adjustments to help clear up congestion on the roads.
"That's the whole purpose, to try to relieve some pressure in other areas such as Eagle Road, State Highway 55 or other areas in the valley," Gorley said.
Phase 2 is expected to be completed by 2026 and will allow drivers to get to and from Emmett - spending less time in the car.
"I think it's an important north-south route in regards to maybe relieving the pressure on some of the other areas, and helping people get from the southern part of the Treasure Valley to the northern part of the Treasure Valley," Gorley said.
A section of I-84 is scheduled to be closed on March 13 and 14 to allow for crews to transport large beams that will be used to construct the I-84 and State Highway 16 interchange. The I-84 closures will span a 4-mile stretch between Exit 38 (Garrity) and Exit 42 (Ten Mile).
Overnight closures on I-84 are as follows:
- Eastbound I-84 will be closed on Wednesday, March 13, from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.
- Westbound I-84 will be closed on Thursday, March 14, from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.
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