Construction nears end

RATHDRUM - Road construction on U.S. 95 north of Coeur d'Alene should be completed by the end of this month, according to Barbara Babic, spokeswoman for the Idaho Transportation Department.

The construction area stretches from Wyoming Avenue to Highway 53, Babic said. Two of the four lanes on U.S. 95 are closed, but the roadway is divided and open to both north and southbound traffic.

Crews are installing two layers of pavement on the southbound (west) side of the road, Babic said. Northbound paving has been completed, she added. Once the project is finished, southbound traffic will shift to the newly-paved lanes.

Travelers may have to find alternate access routes. The U.S. 95 access point at West Lancaster Road is closed, Babic said, with a signed detour in place.

A commuter reported that the Boeckel Road intersection was closed Monday morning as well.

Vehicles are restricted to a 14-foot width inside the construction zone, according to the ITD website. Wide loads can be accommodated on weekdays during daylight hours by calling (208) 772-1247, or (208) 660-0440.

Once the southbound lanes are finished, construction on Highway 95 will cease for the winter, Babic said. However, crews will roll out a third layer of pavement next year.

Travelers can find up-to-date highway information at the ITD website, www.itd.idaho.gov. Information is available 24 hours a day under the "511 Traveler Services" link.