The Idaho Transportation Department is seeking the public’s comments concerning its statewide Long-Range Transportation Plan. Updated every five years, the plan guides decisions on future studies and projects, which the Idaho Transportation Board then approves. The plan is viewable online. Submit comments by Sept. 20.

Of the nearly 1,500 comments submitted during the first comment period online and at open houses hosted across Idaho in 2025, responses recognized growth as a significant factor affecting transportation. 

Respondents also indicated a desire for ITD to focus first on maintaining existing roads and bridges, investing in safety improvements and ensuring reliable system performance before pursuing major expansion or new transportation modes. 

The plan looks at the needs of the transportation network out to 2050, considering a variety of factors including growth, travel demands, land use, safety, economic development, system reliability and anticipated revenue.

“This policy document looks at current conditions, existing plans and future trends in Idaho and lays the foundation for ITD to continue to deliver on our mission of safety, mobility and economic opportunity,” said Amy Schroeder, the division administrator for planning. “It’s not necessarily about identifying specific projects. It’s about determining, through data analysis and public input, the best strategy for investing in the transportation system given the variability of future revenue.” 

In addition to seeking public feedback, ITD has engaged with other planning organizations, as the plan looks at the transportation network as a whole, extending beyond state-managed highways to locally owned routes and alternative modes of transportation.

ITD recently closed its annual comment period in July for planned projects from 2027-2033; comments are under review and planned for presentation to the board in September.

The Long-Range Transportation Plan is expected to be released in October following adoption by the Idaho Transportation Board.