Idaho Falls Construction Slows Downtown Traffic, Business

Downtown Idaho Falls business owners breathed a sigh of relief on Thursday night. After weeks of construction on a major intersection and slow sales, “A” street was back open.

Business at Great Harvest Bread was a little slower than usual in the afternoon. It’s a trend that’s nearing its fourth week.

“The regulars still find their way, but traffic has been crazy. People don’t know what to do with detours. They’ll be going backwards down A Street the wrong way,” said Tiana Meek, who works behind the counter.

The driving nightmare is deterring people from downtown, and all thanks to the makeover of a major intersection at A Street and Shoup Avenue, which has been closed since Aug. 15.

The city is trying to kill lots of birds with one stone by fixing crumbling sidewalks, complying with disability standards and replacing water lines, all while making it more pleasing to the eye. But a big project comes with a big cost.

“Unfortunately, what it does is extend (the) length of time (the) intersection will be closed,” said Bob Everhart, who heads the Idaho Falls Downtown Development Corporation.

And that time has been taking a toll on business.

“Walk-in traffic, as just walking by, that’s what’s been impacted the most by construction,” said Everhart.

The owner of BB Stella Kids wouldn’t speak on camera or give her name but said she usually sees 100 customers in an average week. So far this week, she’s seen only two.

Next-door neighbor Lyn Pletscher, who runs her namesake shop, said there’s no doubt business is far from booming, but the regulars always find a way.

“(Because) I wanted to come here,” said a customer from Challis.

“We have loyal customers who know we have a back door,” said Pletscher.

It was a similar story at Great Harvest Bread.

“They definitely know how to get bread and how to follow their nose,” said Meek.

Many said the opening of A Street was a weight off their shoulders, even though it may still look like a mess.

“There’s a few orange cones down there … so it’s ominous when you look at it,” said Everhart.

But businesses are open, and on the bright side, workers said they have plenty of time to help each and every customer.

The project is on track to wrap up Setp. 23. There may even be a ribbon-cutting for the new intersection.