Interstate 84 is the busiest route in Idaho, carrying thousands of people and tons of goods throughout the state. This $46.4 million effort, based in South-Central Idaho, combined seven projects into three and involved the collaboration of several different parties. Crews completing both the eastbound and westbound projects within two construction seasons and were able to deliver multiple projects – four eastbound and three westbound – within a year. This project also allowed for purchasing in bulk, saving money for the department, as well as reducing time spent on construction. This project emphasized safety, with a design that eliminated the need for multiple crossovers and fewer traffic pattern changes. The Idaho Transportation Department also investigated the materials currently in use, finding them to be higher quality, which meant that they could reduce the scope of the project. This ended up saving millions of dollars while making for a stronger road, allowing people and goods to get where they need faster and safer.
America's Transportation Awards 