ITD seeks feedback on 7-year, $6.9B statewide transportation plan

As it gets ready to celebrate its 50th anniversary, the Idaho Transportation Department is also getting ready to mark another milestone with the public’s help.

Recently, the department released its draft of the Idaho Transportation Investment Program (ITIP), which lays the groundwork for ITD’s priorities over the next seven years. The department is seeking public feedback.

From now until July 31, 2024, ITD is asking for input from the public on the program, which details projects throughout all 44 counties in the entire state. Everything from new guardrails to highway improvements are listed in the program, which calls for $6.9 billion in funding. ITD reported $200 million of that amount will go toward pavements and $100 million to bridges for each of the seven-year timeline.

Other proposed, more specific projects are an overpass on Linder Road over Interstate 84. The project will ease “the traffic burden on the Ten Mile and Meridian interchanges,” and it’s slated to begin in 2026. In 2028, ITD plans to begin milling and resurfacing State Highway 52 from Emmett to Sweet to create smoother driving conditions. A sealcoat will be laid down on the same section of roadway the following year to preserve the road.

“With the growth of traffic accelerating the need for improvements and the impacts of inflating costs since 2020, the added annual investment in highway pavement and bridge repairs proposed in this draft ITIP plan will provide the Idaho Transportation Board effective options to consider looking ahead for Idaho,” said Dan McElhinney, chief deputy director of ITD.

To view the ITIP list, visit itd.idaho.gov/funding. An interactive map is available for viewing and comments can be made through the website. Paper copies will be available at ITD regional offices and can be requested by calling 208-334-4455. Those who wish to leave comments via email can do so at itipcomments@itd.idaho.gov or voice messages can be left at 208-334-8063.

Comments can also be mailed to:

ITIP Comments

Attn: Abby Peterson

P.O. Box 7129

Boise, ID 83707

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