Dave Tolman, Chief Administrative Officer | Idaho Transportation Department
Dave Tolman, Chief Administrative Officer | Idaho Transportation Department
The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) has commenced its spring road work across East Idaho, which is set to continue over the coming months. The efforts include crack sealing, pothole repairs, removal of hazardous trees, and improving road conditions, covering areas from Salmon to Driggs and stretching to the Montana state line and Idaho Falls.
Crack sealing has started on Interstate 15, stretching from Idaho Falls to Dubois, as well as on State Highways 33 and 47. This process involves a mobile one-lane restriction, enabling workers to fill minor road cracks with a sticky tar that prevents water penetration. As ITD crews focus on these tasks, they must be completed during the cooler spring months and dry conditions, allowing repairs to expand as temperatures rise.
Mastic pothole repair is underway across East Idaho highways, requiring temporary flagging operations. These delays are expected to be less than 15 minutes. Mastic application, involving a hot-applied rubber and asphalt mixture, effectively seals larger road damages and is implemented under specific spring temperature conditions. This repair work is planned to minimize disruptions, occurring outside peak travel times, including nighttime operations.
U.S. Highway 20 between Rexburg and St. Anthony will undergo resurfacing. Crews will remove the road surface in segments of up to 1,500 feet, followed by new pavement overlays, resulting in lane closures and speed restrictions.
The removal of hazardous trees on U.S. Highway 93, between Challis and Salmon, is set to begin this spring. While some operations may occur off-road, flagging and temporary lane restrictions will be in place. The tree removal enhances safety recovery zones for drivers, improves wildlife visibility, and fire prevention measures. This work will extend into the summer season.
Additionally, routine maintenance, such as shoulder repairs and delineation enhancements, is ongoing. Motorists are advised to remain vigilant around these zones, reduce speed, and exercise caution. For updates on road work locations, the Idaho 511 app or the website at https://511.idaho.gov/ offers real-time information.
ITD urges drivers to follow the safety directives to ensure a secure passage for everyone involved.
Alerts Sign-up