Highway 3 $9M project to begin soon near Clarkia

CLARKIA — The Idaho Transportation Department will begin a $9 million pavement rehabilitation and reconstruction project next week on a 7-mile section of State Highway 3 between Fernwood and Clarkia. 

Work will begin near milepost 52 at Pine Drive and move north through summer and fall.

The project will include several types of pavement improvements depending on roadway conditions, according to an ITD press release. Some sections will be fully reconstructed while other areas will receive minor resurfacing.

Crews will also replace culverts throughout the corridor and complete minor guardrail improvements.

Initially, daytime traffic will be reduced to a single alternating lane controlled by temporary signals, flaggers and pilot cars, and will revert to two-lane traffic overnight.

Construction is expected to be complete by the end of 2026. Real-time traffic information will be available at 511.idaho.gov or by calling 511.

A second ITD project will also affect travel on Highway 3 beginning in June or July. A sealcoat and sign replacement project will cover about 10 miles between the Highway 6 Junction and Emerald Creek Road. Work is expected to last about one month. Traffic will also be reduced to a single alternating lane through active work areas.

Once both projects are underway, motorists should plan for up to 30 additional minutes of travel time between the two work zones.

"While these delays may be frustrating, both projects represent a significant investment in maintaining and improving this rural highway corridor," the release said. "Together, the work will address aging pavement, improve drainage and roadside safety features, and extend the life of the roadway for years to come."