Highly anticipated South Valley Road opens

Representatives from Idaho’s Congressional Delegation, representatives from Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter’s office and the City of Pocatello were at City Hall Wednesday.

They all gathered to celebrate the opening of South Valley Road. A ribbon cutting immediately afterward on the new highway.

Mayor Brian Blad says we will finally see the effort and perseverance pay off from so many people. He says it’s taken 25 years and four mayors to get this paid off.

“The plan kept on changing, which is one the biggest reasons why it took so long to complete,” said Mayor Blad.

The roadway features two travel lanes and bicycle lanes in each direction. Plus, a 10 ft. wide multi-use path. The total cost of the project was around $22 million and was financed through funds of the federal government, Pocatello Development Authority, Union Pacific Railroad, and the city of Pocatello.

“It will really help with your commute, and will prevent any railroad accidents we’ve had in the past through the Cheyenne Road.”

The new road was opened to the public as of 2:00 p.m. Wednesday.