A traffic signal is coming to this frustrating mountain intersection in Idaho. What to know
Drivers headed to the McCall and Stanley areas can expect to see a new addition to the Banks Lowman Road this summer that could affect travel times.
Starting Tuesday, the Idaho Transportation Department will begin construction on an interim traffic signal at the well-used intersection of Idaho 55 and Banks Lowman Road in Banks to “provide safe turning opportunities,” the agency said in a news release.
The signal was identified as the best solution following a preliminary study and public feedback to reduce the long lines of drivers who stretch down Banks Lowman Road — especially on weekends — attempting to turn left onto the highway, according to the transportation department.
On some busy weekends, flaggers were used, backing up traffic significantly on 55.
“It will save turning drivers’ time, and the intersection will no longer require flaggers to safely operate during peak traffic in the summer,” the Monday release said.
This week’s construction will build the foundation for the traffic signal, followed by installing utilities at the intersection. Crews will need to install signal poles and signal heads, along with guardrails, and then a portion of the road will need to be paved, the release said. The project is expected to be completed by summer.
ITD said it will manage traffic during the construction of the traffic signal, which will include lane closures and flaggers during some phases of the project. Travelers headed north are encouraged to check 511 Idaho and plan for delays. All closures will be posted.
ITD is also working on a long-term intersection-widening solution, the agency said. It will be a years-long process that will review bridge widening, hillside setback earthwork and turn lanes “to meet the growing regional and river area traffic mobility demands,” according to ITD.
