Why is this area being studied?
The Magic Valley has experienced tremendous growth, which will continue into the future. Providing transportation solutions to serve future demand will be critical to keep people moving.
The Idaho Transportation Department is conducting the Snake River Crossing Study to develop and evaluate alternatives for improving local and regional mobility in the Magic Valley area.
Project Overview
Project Overview
The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) is conducting the Snake River Crossing Study (study). This study will develop and evaluate alternatives for improving local and regional mobility in the Magic Valley area, focusing on developing an additional crossing of the Snake River Canyon and reducing congestion along the U.S. Highway 93 corridor.
The purpose of the study is to select a project or projects to advance into environmental review and preliminary engineering and to provide a transparent and collaborative process for the public.
Study Goals
To evaluate project alternatives, the following study goals will be utilized:
1) Improve performance of facilities currently experiencing or projected to experience congestion
2) Improve regional mobility, including the efficient transport of goods and services (freight) and provision of emergency services
3) Support a fiscally responsible investment that is technically feasible, fundable and buildable
4) Minimize impacts to the built and/or natural environment
In addition to these goals, the objectives of this study are to:
– Provide a redundant system for aging infrastructure and an alternate bridge crossing in the event of emergencies
– Increase regional economic development opportunities (driven by mobility)
– Improve safety and reduce operational impacts
– Consider possible negative outcomes of each alternative or possible future needs within the study area
Study Area
The area of the Snake River Crossing Study includes a portion of the Magic Valley (as shown on the map here). This region is experiencing tremendous growth and providing transportation solutions to serve current and future demand is critical for safety, mobility, and economic opportunity.
Community Involvement
ITD is working closely with the local jurisdictions and other key stakeholders to analyze transportation improvements for the area.
The public will have opportunities to review potential alternatives and provide input. Public involvement is a key component in the ITD decision-making process. Open house dates and locations will be announced soon.
To receive email updates on the project and upcoming feedback opportunities, click here.
Downloads & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
You've got questions, we've got answers! Here are some of the most common questions we've received about this project.
Why is this area being studied?
What have you learned from previous studies?
What have you learned from previous studies?
Over the years, previous studies have evaluated various locations for potential new river crossings but no projects have advanced. The most recent study, “Magic Valley Origin-Destination Study,” provided an in-depth look into how people travel around the Magic Valley and evaluated potential river crossings at a high level. This current study will build on previous work by providing a more detailed analysis of river crossing and area transportation options with the goal of identifying a project to move forward.
How can I provide input?
How can I provide input?
ITD understands that public input will help shape a community-appropriate solution. The project team will provide opportunities for stakeholders to provide input at key milestones throughout the study, specifically in Winter 2022-2023 at a public open house.
To sign up for email updates, complete the form at the top of this page or contact the project team at [email protected]
Where can I find the most up-to-date information?
Where can I find the most up-to-date information?
This project website will be kept up to date throughout the project. To sign up for email updates, complete the form at the top of this page or contact the project team at [email protected]