CALDWELL, Idaho — Drivers in Canyon County should brace for additional detours as construction continues along Interstate 84 in Caldwell, where crews are rebuilding key ramps to align with a widened roadway.
The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) says temporary ramp closures at both 10th Avenue and Centennial Way are expected in the coming weeks as work intensifies on the long-running I-84 and 10th Avenue improvement project.
The upgrades are part of a broader effort to modernize aging infrastructure and accommodate increasing traffic volumes in one of Idaho’s fastest-growing regions.
According to ITD project manager David Barrett, the ramp closures are necessary because the newly widened interstate no longer lines up with the original ramp designs.
"They'll be in and out as quick as they can, but it's going to take some time," said Barrett.
Barrett explained that engineers determined the existing ramps could not simply be modified — they must be reconstructed entirely.
"The grades do not work with the older ramps, so they have to be fully rebuilt," said Barrett.
ITD estimates closures at 10th Avenue could last about 90 days, while closures at Centennial Way may last roughly 60 days. Officials say sequencing the work carefully is critical to maintaining safety and keeping the overall project on track.
The I-84 corridor construction has been underway since 2024. So far, crews have completed the westbound lanes, finished the pedestrian bridge and constructed half of the new 10th Avenue Bridge. Work is now beginning on the second half of that bridge structure.
"To date, we've completed the westbound lanes and completed the pedestrian bridge, and we've constructed half of the 10th Avenue Bridge. The other half is just now beginning," said Barrett.
Although the 10th Avenue underpass has reopened, traffic patterns will continue to shift as bridge work progresses.
While temporary closures often bring frustration, some drivers say the disruptions have been manageable so far.
"I have no problem with the construction. I come right off the freeway, and I go over to Maverick to get fueled up. I get back on. I have had no problem getting over here off the freeway to come to McDonald's to eat lunch, had no problem" said truck driver Robert Breckenridge.
Still, ITD encourages drivers to allow extra travel time, follow posted detour signage and stay alert in construction zones. With heavy equipment, lane shifts and changing traffic patterns, safety remains a primary concern for crews and motorists alike.
Barrett emphasized that the inconvenience is temporary, but the improvements are designed to serve the region for decades.
"We try to design our roads for like a 50-year lifespan. So, many decades from now, this road will still be serving the users here," said Barrett.
Canyon County, including Caldwell, has seen steady population and commercial growth in recent years. Transportation planners say the I-84 expansion is essential to keeping up with increased commuter traffic, freight movement and regional connectivity between Boise and western Idaho communities.
ITD has not announced a final completion date for the entire project, but the next phase of ramp closures is expected to begin soon. Drivers can sign up for project updates through ITD to stay informed about timelines and traffic impacts.
As construction continues, officials stress that patience and awareness behind the wheel will help ensure both worker safety and smoother travel during this critical infrastructure upgrade.
Originally reported by Leslie Solis in Idaho News 6.
