COEUR d’ALENE, Idaho – The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) continues to monitor delays to construction projects in North Idaho due to an ongoing strike by heavy equipment operators in Eastern Washington.
ITD provided an update on the following projects in a press release:
Interstate 90 and State Highway 41 Interchange
Planned traffic shifts onto the new lanes of State Highway 41 and the new SPUI intersection have been postponed due to the ongoing strike. Until resolved, drivers will continue using the current alignment on SH-41. This delay also affects the reopening schedule of the new westbound off-ramp at SH-41, as it cannot be constructed until traffic is shifted to the new intersection. The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) maintenance crews are considering reinforcing the existing SH-41 pavement for potential winter use. Despite these setbacks, the overall project completion is still expected in 2026, though some milestones might be delayed.
State Highway 53 Pleasant View Interchange
The temporary traffic signal continues to efficiently manage traffic, according to a recent report. While minor construction activities are ongoing, the strike by operators has stalled major work, impacting overall project progress.One significant concern is the coordination required with the railroad to set bridge girders over the tracks. This overhead work necessitates adjustments to train schedules, which involve detailed planning and coordination. The missed work window due to the strike will delay the rescheduling of this task.
I-90 Coeur d’Alene River Bridge
The strike is impacting the delivery and installation of girders for the eastbound bridge. These girders are crucial for the project, and the delay might keep traffic in the current crossover configuration into winter. This setup poses challenges for plowing and snow removal, with reduced lane widths significantly affecting commercial vehicles and oversized loads.Even after girders are installed, the remaining work, including concrete pouring and paving, is weather-dependent, potentially impacting the Idaho Transportation Department’s (ITD) timeline for completing the bridge before winter.
I-90 Widening
ITD is evaluating which parts of the project can proceed this year to minimize overall delays. The strike has affected the project’s schedule, potentially impacting the anticipated completion timeline. ITD is working to identify elements that can move forward despite the limited work currently taking place.
I-90 Fourth of July Pass
Current traffic barriers and configurations could stay the same or be adjusted, depending on developments over the next week. Leaving traffic unchanged might frustrate drivers, but ITD notes it could lead to more efficient work later in 2025 and into 2026 once the strike concludes. Additionally, ITD is reviewing plans to tackle drainage issues along the corridor.
