The next step in the extension of Idaho 16 connecting State Street to Chinden Boulevard is set to begin in several weeks.

Contracts were awarded previously to connect State Street to Chinden Boulevard, including a new 1,726-foot bridge over the Boise River. Work has been under way since May to build a bridge across the river and the Phyllis Canal between U.S. 20/26 and Idaho 44.

The latest contract would connect Idaho 16 with local roads.

The Idaho Transportation Department said it will verify in coming weeks that Idaho Sand and Gravel is a properly licensed contractor and possesses a surety bond, which protects taxpayers and the department. Afterward, the contractor can schedule work to begin.

The improvements are scheduled to be completed in late summer 2014. Preparation on the connecting roads will likely begin in early April. Work that would disrupt the flow of irrigation waters will be suspended until the irrigation season has been completed.

"As western Ada, eastern Canyon and southern Gem counties develop, the ability to move north-south traffic is a primary concern," says Amy Schroeder, manager of ITD's GARVEE Program (Grant Anticipation Revenue Vehicle). The 2005 Legislature authorized the sale of GARVEE bonds backed by future federal gasoline-tax revenue sent to the state. Those bond sales are financing the Idaho 16 work.

"The project will provide another vital north-south link in the Treasure Valley as the population continues to grow," Schroeder says. "This particular project provides new county roads and replaces access to all of the parcels adjacent to the project."

Concrete Placing Co. Inc., of Boise, is the contractor for the first segment - the $19.4 million construction of the river crossing - as well as $10.8 million work to the south and a crossing of the Phyllis Canal.