Idaho Transportation Department begins construction project to widen I-15

POCATELLO — The Idaho Transportation Department started construction to widen Interstate 15 to three lanes in each direction between the Northgate and Fort Hall interchanges.

According to a news release from ITD, the project started on Monday. The wider road will accommodate increases in traffic volumes. The project will also include constructing a median barrier to separate opposing lanes of traffic and reconstructing structures.

Drivers will see traffic control devices in the area now that the project has started. There will be two lanes of traffic in each direction during the day for most of the project, but there will only be one lane in each direction at night.

During the fall, workers will shift the traffic to create the space they need to complete the project.

The news release said nighttime work began on Monday. It will continue for the first couple weeks of construction. Work will start at 7 p.m. and go until 6 a.m. during this period. Drivers can expect single-lane closures.

Daytime work will begin in early fall. When it starts, it will begin every morning at 7 a.m. and end at 6 p.m.

There will be lane restrictions throughout the project, but most of it is expected to be at night. There will also be ramp adjustments at the Fort Hall Interchange (Exit 80) to match the grade of the new mainline. Variable speed limit signs will also be installed during the project.

The project is expected to be completed in 2027. The project will increase capacity and improve safety in the area. It is expected to serve transportation for East Idaho in the coming years.

The news release said the project has been divided into two projects with separate contractors due to its large area. Western Construction, Inc. is the contractor for the north project area, and Sundt Construction is the contractor for the south. Both contractors will work on the project at the same time.

The project is funded as part of Gov. Brad Little’s Leading Idaho Transportation Funding initiative. This initiative allows ITD to take a deliberate approach to advance large projects that will enhance safety, strengthen Idaho’s economy and positively impact communities across the state.

Project updates can be found at itdprojects.idaho.gov/pages/i15northgatetoblackfoot. Residents can also call 208-252-5553.