The Treasure Valley, located in southwestern Idaho, is a rapidly growing metropolitan area with a population of over 800,000 people according to the latest population growth data from the U.S. Census (Source: BoiseDev Article on Treasure Valley Census). The region is home to Boise, the state capital, as well as several other cities and towns, including Nampa, Meridian, Kuna, Caldwell, and Eagle.
The Treasure Valley is a major transportation hub for the state of Idaho, and it is well-connected to other parts of the country by Interstate 84, Interstate 184, and U.S. Route 20/30. The region is also served by Boise Airport, which is the busiest airport in Idaho.
The Treasure Valley’s Road infrastructure is generally in good condition, and the region has a well-developed network of highways, freeways, and arterial roads. However, traffic congestion is becoming an increasing problem, particularly during peak hours. To address this issue, the ADA County Highway District (ACHD) has developed a long-term transportation plan that includes several projects to improve the region’s road infrastructure. Here are some undergoing projects mentioned on the ADA County Highway District Website.
Boise Airport Expansion
According to the Boise Airport website, the Boise Airport expansion project is introducing a multiyear capital improvement plan to expand parking, terminal, and gate capacity.
Key projects include new parking structures for passengers and employees, a rental car lobby and garage, a new concourse, an expanded aircraft parking apron, and other related infrastructure enhancements. The completed project will be finished by 2026.
Desert Avenue, Latigo Drive to Cole Road
ACHD is making improvements on Desert Avenue in South Boise. The project aims to enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists by adding continuous curbs, gutters, and multi-use pathways on both sides of the road. This project design is completed in 2024 and the whole project will be finished by 2026.
Downtown Eagle Mobility Improvements: Eagle Road and State Street
The Eagle Road and State Street intersection is a key gateway to downtown Eagle, serving vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians accessing local businesses, neighborhoods, schools, and the senior center. ACHD, in collaboration with the City of Eagle, is designing improvements for this area, including nearby roads like Olde Park Place, Plaza Drive, and Aikens Street. Phase 1 of the project is expected to be complete by Fall 2024.
Eagle Road, Lake Hazel Road to Amity Road
The Ada County Highway District will reconstruct Eagle Road between Lake Hazel and Amity to improve traffic flow and enhance safety for all users.
State Street, 8th Street to 4th Street
Reconstruct State Street between 8th and 4th streets, upgrading all three traffic signals and adding bulb-outs for safer pedestrian crossings. Install vegetated bioretention for storm water treatment and enhance the crosswalk behind the Idaho State Capitol with an overhead Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon.
Some other undergoing roads and sidewalk projects are;
- Garden Street Sidewalks & Bikeway, Albion Street to Greenbelt
- Orchard Street and Franklin Road Intersection
Further, Ada County Highway District’s (ACHD) Integrated Five-Year Work Plan (IFYWP) can be seen here.
In the coming articles, we will talk about private, and commercial vehicles in Idaho and the challenges associated with them. Have any questions or want to know more about the transport system in Idaho? Let us know at COBEEthics@boisestate.edu!