The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) will begin paving work on State Highway 3 near Clarkia starting Monday. The project covers the stretch between mileposts 55 and 58 and is expected to last through August 14, depending on weather conditions.
During construction, traffic will be limited to a single lane during daytime hours. A pilot car will guide vehicles through the area, and drivers—including those operating commercial and logging trucks—are advised to expect delays while the work is underway.
According to ITD, this project serves as a temporary measure aimed at improving some of the roughest pavement sections ahead of a larger rehabilitation planned for next year. In 2026, ITD intends to return for a full-depth overhaul of this segment of highway, which will involve milling and repaving the entire roadway.
“This isn’t the final product,” said Ross Farrell, regional Foreman. “This overlay is meant to buy us time and provide a smoother, safer surface through winter until the full project can be completed next year.”
Crews from both North Idaho and north-central Idaho are collaborating on this effort due to the site’s location near a regional boundary. This inter-district cooperation is intended to help complete the work efficiently.
ITD urges motorists to slow down in construction zones and check real-time travel information at https://511.idaho.gov or via the Idaho 511 app.
