Eastern Idaho highway projects outlined

The Idaho Transportation Department has outlined 20 highway construction projects in eastern Idaho this year. A detailed map of the proposed projects can be found here. The department outlined $28.6 million in upgrades, including: -replacing the Curr Canal Bridge on U.S. 20 northeast of St. Anthony; – replacing the Owsley Canal Bridge on Idaho 33 in Mud Lake; – resurfacing Interstate 15 between Spencer and Montana; – repairing three bridges on I-15 north of Idaho Falls and two bridges on U.S. 20, one in Rexburg and one in Thornton; – resurfacing Idaho 33 between Henry’s Fork Bridge and Rexburg; – seal-coating 10 highway routes in the region; – installing rumble strips along various highways; – upgrading traffic signals in Idaho Falls, Rigby and Rexburg. Each of the projects will begin after contracts have been awarded. Eastern Idaho highway contractors are continuing to sweep loose rock on U.S. 26 east of Idaho Falls and U.S. 93 between Arco and Mackay. Contractors cannot repair or replace seal coats on those roads until summertime. Spokesman Bruce King said temperatures must be sufficiently warm for successful seal-coat repairs and replacements. The road-surface temperature must be 80 degrees and rising to allow heat to help bond asphalt and rock to the pavement. Seal coats are normally performed between June 15 and August 31. Additional information about seal coating projects can be found here.