Starting next week, workers will install temporary traffic lights on State Highway 200. These lights will operate 24 hours a day, reducing the roadway to one lane at the eastern end of the work zone.

The temporary traffic signals are expected to remain in operation for approximately two weeks while crews work to build a new embankment along the south side of the highway and create the space needed to widen the highway to include a new center turn lane.

This work will include milling the existing eastbound carriageway to connect the new and original road surfaces. The space available for through traffic will be limited to a single lane, justifying the use of temporary signals 24 hours a day, including during off-hours. Previously, the carriageway was reduced to one lane only during off-hours, and traffic was returned to its normal configuration at night and on weekends.

During this time, drivers should continue to expect delays, especially during morning and evening rush hours.

Driver crews are alert to congestion and take all reasonable steps to minimize delays for drivers.

The Idaho Transportation Department thanks motorists for their patience during this process. The new road will provide a significantly improved corridor to the community of Kootenai in the fall.

Once this phase of work is completed, the two temporary signals will be removed. However, after the signals have been removed, there is a possibility that marking operations may occur temporarily and for a short period of time.

By mid-September, drivers can expect a significant improvement in mobility due to the construction site.

This project is on schedule and all phases are expected to be completed by mid- to late October.