POST FALLS, Idaho — Traffic pattern changes are set to begin April 29 as construction progresses on the State Highway 53 (SH-53) Pleasant View Road interchange project, according to the Idaho Transportation Department.
The project, which has been underway since 2024, is aimed at improving safety and mobility for motorists while eliminating three railroad crossings in the area. Once complete, the new interchange is expected to streamline traffic flow and reduce potential conflicts between vehicles and trains.
The interchange itself is anticipated to open later this summer. However, full project completion, including additional roadway adjustments, is not expected until spring 2027.
As part of the next phase of construction, several temporary traffic changes will impact drivers in the area. Beginning April 29, the center lane at Cloverleaf Road will close for approximately one month. At the same time, the center left-turn lane on SH-53 at Hauser Lake Road will also be closed for up to one week.
Transportation officials said access at Hauser Lake Road will be shifted east to a safer temporary location during this period.
Additional changes are scheduled to roll out in early May. Access to SH-53 from both Hauser Lake Road and Hollister Hills Road will be eliminated temporarily. Instead, drivers will be redirected to a newly constructed connector road leading to a temporary intersection, which will remain in use until the interchange opens later this summer.
Despite the temporary disruptions, access to businesses along Hauser Lake Road will remain open throughout construction, according to transportation officials.
Once the interchange becomes operational, crews will shift focus to final project elements, including closing nearby railroad crossings at McGuire Road and Prairie Avenue. Local traffic will then be permanently redirected through the new interchange.
Officials emphasize that the long-term benefits of the project include safer travel conditions, improved traffic efficiency, and reduced congestion in the growing Post Falls area.
Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra travel time and remain alert when traveling through active construction zones. The Idaho Transportation Department also urges motorists to follow posted signage and exercise caution to ensure the safety of both workers and fellow drivers.
Originally reported by Grace Uppendahl in KREM.
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