SODA SPRINGS − A major road construction project is slated to take place this summer for U.S. Highway 30 in Soda Springs.

The project involved planning and extensive coordination from both the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) and the city of Soda Springs.

State level planning began in 2022 after years of deterioration along the roadway prompted repetitive patchwork repairs. The upcoming work will address the root causes beneath the visual pavement to not only improve the life of the road but also reduce the need for future extensive construction.

“This section of roadway has numerous issues with the underlying material,” said ITD engineer Todd Hubbard. “Rather than continuing temporary fixes, this project will correct those fundamental problems and provide a long-term solution.”

The approximate project cost is $13 million, funded primarily through the federal transportation funds. The city of Soda Springs will separately fund long needed utility improvements including water and stormwater upgrades and will coordinate such improvements as plans for the state roadway construction continue.

With construction to begin as early as April, the hope is to conclude the project by September, although exact dates are not available at this time.

A much smoother roadway won’t come without some disruption costs to residents but will ensure fewer future disruptions and will improve the overall safety of the road. ADA accessibility will be upgraded at the intersection of US-30 and S 3rd St., and a widened roadway will be formed near the Caribou County Sheriff's office to allow for an extended turning lane. These improvements will prevent turning vehicles from blocking traffic and enhance the overall flow of traffic.

Minimizing disruptions is a main focus for ITD and city officials, especially during major community events such as Soda Springs’ Fourth of July celebration which uses US-30 for its parade.

Construction will occur in phases to allow US-30 to remain open throughout the summer. Lane reductions will occur in town, but ITD does not anticipate long-term closures or detours. Brief operations with a pilot car may be used on the east end of town during resurfacing work near S 3rd St.

ITD plans to work closely with local businesses and residents to ensure that homes and storefronts remain accessible and proper accommodations are made for emergency vehicles.

A public meeting was held on Jan. 5 to discuss the project. ITD has also provided a website to keep the public informed with current details: https://itdprojects.idaho.gov/pages/soda-springs-ecl-wcl.

Residents with questions or concerns can contact ITD Public Information Officer Justin Smith at justin.smith@itd.idaho.gov. State and city officials ask for patience during this construction period and remind drivers to slow down in work zones to help keep workers, motorists and pedestrians safe.

“This project represents a long-term investment in Soda Springs’ infrastructure,” Hubbard said. “The temporary inconvenience will lead to lasting benefits for the community.”