LEWISTON, ID – The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) is observing Work Zone Safety Awareness Week from April 21 to 25, encouraging drivers to exercise caution as construction activities increase across the state.
The campaign is part of a national effort to promote safety in road construction areas, aiming to protect both drivers and the workers operating near fast-moving traffic.
“Driving cautiously in work zones helps families,” said Dan McElhinney, ITD Chief Deputy and Chief Operations Officer. “Travelers, workers, and their loved ones all benefit when drivers reduce crash risks by driving slower and staying alert.”
Work zones typically include crews from ITD, contractors, utility providers, law enforcement, and emergency response services. These areas often contain signage, barriers, cones, narrow lanes, and uneven road surfaces. According to ITD, rear-end collisions—often the result of distracted or impatient driving—are the most common type of work zone crash.
Between 2019 and 2023, Idaho recorded over 3,400 crashes in work zones, resulting in 30 fatalities, all of whom were vehicle occupants.
To reduce these risks, ITD advises motorists to check road conditions through Idaho 511 before traveling, reduce speeds, avoid distractions, maintain safe distances, and be alert for workers and flaggers. Drivers are also reminded to comply with Idaho’s Move Over Law when passing emergency or response vehicles with flashing lights.
Current or upcoming construction areas in North-Central Idaho include:
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US-95 Thorn Creek Road to Moscow
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US-95 Ferdinand Northbound Passing Lane
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SH-11 Quartz Creek Bridge near Pierce
Additional updates and travel information can be found at idaho511.com or itd.idaho.gov.