Gem State Wire

Crews are set to return to Rathdrum next week to commence construction on State Highway 53 near the intersection with State Highway 41, located north of the railroad tracks. The Idaho Transportation Department is overseeing the project, which involves adding a new northbound through lane on SH-53. This addition aims to allow two lanes of traffic to move north through the intersection during green light cycles. Despite this change, SH-53 will continue to have a dedicated right turn lane for vehicles traveling over the bridge.

The purpose of the new lane is to increase the number of vehicles passing through the signal at one time and decrease vehicle queues during peak hours. During construction, the existing right turn lane will be closed, requiring all northbound SH-53 traffic to use a single through lane for all movements. Drivers should anticipate reduced speed limits and flagging operations, although any flagging related to signal work will occur outside peak traffic hours.

For updates on traffic impacts and delays, information is available via the Idaho 511 system online, by phone, or through their app.