Idaho Falls underpass construction to begin Monday

The Idaho Falls Public Works Department is about to begin construction on the D Street underpass project.

D Street will be closed between Yellowstone and Eastern avenues beginning Monday.

The resulting closure will remain in effect for the duration of the project, which is expected to last 14 to 15 months. In a news release Thursday, the city said the project will require extensive underground utility work in the intersection of Yellowstone Avenue and D Street, which will result in significant impacts to Yellowstone traffic.

These impacts will include periodic full closures of southbound traffic on Yellowstone, beginning April 15 and continuing for about a month.

Elm and Ash streets and South Boulevard are the primary recommended detour routes. Although the city said it is doing all it can to reduce the impact on traffic, drivers should expect short delays, and drivers are encouraged to use alternate routes.

“We are very excited to finally begin work on this project and are committed to getting the work done in as quick a manner a possible while minimizing the traffic impact and still providing good access to our local businesses,” said Mayor Jared Fuhriman.