The Idaho Transportation Department extended the closure of the westbound Northwest Boulevard on-ramp to Interstate 90 by two weeks, pushing the reopening date to approximately Oct. 12.
Officials announced the delay Friday, citing unforeseen complications with how the reconstructed ramp connects to the interstate. Rather than applying a temporary fix that would necessitate future roadwork, ITD decided to complete the necessary adjustments during the current shutdown.
Ramp Reopening Delayed
The on-ramp was originally scheduled to reopen on Monday. The extension means drivers will face continued detours for an additional fortnight. Project Manager Zach Feist acknowledged the disruption but emphasized the long-term benefit of finishing the work now.
“We know extending a closure is frustrating, but we believe it is the best way to keep traffic consistent for drivers and avoid having to close the ramp again in the future,” Feist said.
Feist added that transparency regarding the inconvenience allows the agency to resolve the issue while the road is already closed. “We’d rather be upfront about the inconvenience now and get this work completed during the closure that is already in place,” he said.
Traffic Alternatives
Westbound traffic entering I-90 at U.S. 95 will retain its own lane and will not merge with existing interstate traffic once the ramp reopens. Until then, motorists are advised to use alternative on-ramps located at Fourth Street, 15th Street, or Sherman Avenue.
For those seeking the closest alternate route, U.S. 95 via Appleway Avenue is recommended. Drivers should anticipate additional closures planned for late October, though specific details regarding those disruptions have not yet been released.
I-90 Widening Project
The Northwest Boulevard ramp work is part of a larger I-90 widening project spanning from Highway 41 to U.S. 95. The multi-year construction effort aims to expand the interstate to four lanes in each direction. ITD expects the broader project to continue through 2029.