ITD hosts online open house on I-15 in Blackfoot

BLACKFOOT, Idaho (KIFI) - The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) is currently finalizing the plans for an upcoming repaving project in the Blackfoot Corridor of Interstate 15.

ITD still plans on widening the interstate from Idaho Falls to Pocatello but says the asphalt in this corridor is in need of repair.

"The pavement just needs to be updated and repaved. We see a lot of traffic here on I-15. And over time, the road degrades. So we're looking at paving projects scheduled for 2025 to improve the roadway," ITD representative Justin Smith said.

Smith said the repaving project may actually occur at the same time as the widening project. However, the funding for the widening of the interstate isn't as secure yet.

"We're still waiting on the funding and that will drive when we are able to do that widening program."

Smith also gave a glimpse into the future of the corridor from Shelley to the Utah Border.

"We're continuing to work on the system interchange that will continue throughout the winter. We're getting ready to do a realignment on some of the traffic onto the new I-15. We're also working on the Fort Hall interchange that's continuing to be improved. We're looking at doing those piece by piece as we work our way through. So I-15 is a busy place and we want to get all this done as soon as possible so we can improve the safety of the roadway," Smith said.

To participate in the online meeting and see further details about the project, you can go here.