Drivers asked to look out for crews as spring road work begins across east Idaho

The following is a news release from Idaho Transportation Department.

RIGBY— With the onset of spring, over the next several months the Idaho Transportation Department and contractor partners are crack sealing, repairing potholes, removing hazardous trees and conducting more substantial improvements to ruts and bumps in the roads from Salmon to Driggs and the Montana state lines to Idaho Falls.

Crack sealing is underway on Interstate 15 from Idaho Falls to Dubois, as well as State Highways 33 and 47. This work involves a mobile one-lane restriction that follows workers’ progress. ITD crews fill minor cracks in the roadway with a strong, sticky tar that serves to keep water from getting under the surface and making the damage worse. This must be done in spring during cooler temperatures and dry conditions, and then the repair effectively expands through warmer months.

Flagging operations will be in place temporarily on state highways across east Idaho as ITD performs mastic pothole repair. Expect flagging delays to be less than 15 minutes where this work is occurring. Mastic work uses a hot-applied rubber and asphalt combination that is highly effective at sealing up more substantial damages in the road. These fixes must also be done in dry conditions and specific temperatures seen during the spring. Crews time work before or after peak travel times, even at night as needed.

On U.S. Highway 20 between Rexburg and St. Anthony, crews will be working to mill off the surface of the road in 1,500-foot stretches or less and then overlay new pavement. Expect to see one lane closures and speed reductions where this is occurring.

Hazardous tree removal will also begin this spring on U.S. Highway 93 between Challis and Salmon. ITD crews can sometimes work off the roadway, though flaggers will be in place as needed, with one lane restricted in 15-minute increments. The removal of dying and diseased trees will improve errant driver safety recovery zones, wildlife visibility and fire protection widths. This effort will continue through the spring and into the summer months.

Other routine spring maintenance work like shoulder repairs and delineation enhancements are also ongoing. Drivers should be aware of these smaller work zones, slow down and move over to help everyone stay safe. Download the Idaho 511 app or visit tps://511.idaho.gov/ to stay up to date on where road work is occurring across Idaho.