Targhee Pass open house set Thursday

The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) is continuing an environmental assessment of a four-mile stretch of U.S. 20 over Targhee Pass. The assessment, which began last October, evaluates risks, benefits, opportunities and costs associated with the rebuilding of the highway. The pass is a stretch of road between its junction with Idaho 87 and the Montana state line. “ITD’s mission is to accommodate safe and efficient mobility throughout the U.S. 20 corridor,” said ITD Project Manager Derek Noyes. “We work with all stakeholders to identify and evaluate all possible solutions to travel interruptions.” Noyes and other officials will be on hand for an open house to discuss the project Thursday. The open house will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the EMS Building, 4124 County Circle Road, in Island Park. ITD will also discuss a new cooperative agreement with the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. Noyes said the agreement is aimed at reducing wildlife collisions along the entire U.S. 20 corridor. “By collecting data on (wildlife-vehicle collisions), we can develop best management practices for consideration on Targhee Pass and future projects along the corridor.” The environmental study is available here.