State steers money to I-90, U.S. 95 Interchange

The Interstate 90 and U.S. 95 interchange has been recommended for further design and construction thanks to new state funding.

"This project will add capacity to support future traffic volumes, which are expected to double by 2045, and enhance safety by eliminating off-ramp queues backing up on to the interstate," a press release said. 

Transportation Expansion and Congestion Mitigation funds will be used to address congestion on priority corridors across the state — including I-90 in Coeur d'Alene, according to the release.

TECM funding came from House Bill 25, which was passed by the Idaho Legislature earlier this year. 

The legislation provides an additional $20 million a year to the TECM fund for the next three years and allows the department to invest an extra $1 billion in the Idaho transportation system. 

Prior to House Bill 25, no funding was available for construction. Now, it could be possible as early as 2027.

"This project and others were identified because they are existing high-priority corridor needs that will improve traffic flow and increase safety," the press release said.  

With this project now included in the draft Idaho Transportation Investment Program, the public will have the opportunity to give feedback on this project and the department’s full list of planned projects from 2026-2032 during the annual comment period in July.

The draft ITIP will then be presented to the board for approval in September.  

TECM funds were also used for the construction of the I-90 and Highway 41 interchange, which began in 2022 — a year earlier than planned.