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US 95 project progressing smoothly

by Cameron Rasmusson Staff Writer
| September 1, 2012 7:00 AM

PONDERAY — Work is progressing smoothly on the Sandpoint to Kootenai Cutoff road expansion.

After the mechanically stabilized earth wall proved particularly troublesome to excavate for Apollo Construction workers, the project is now back on pace.

“Right now, the project is mostly focused on finishing up the preparatory stuff,” transportation information officer Susan Kiebert said.

Workers are currently focused on rebuilding the MSE Wall, first installing a trench drain and wick drains before focusing on the backfill and the wall itself. This section of the project was troublesome earlier in the construction season when damp conditions slowed progress.

Meanwhile, the road expansion itself is continuing north of Schweitzer Cutoff Road. Workers are focusing on the southbound lane expansion on the west side of the project. Within the next 10 days, project officials hope to continue work south of Schweitzer Cutoff Road.

As work progresses and affects new businesses, signs will help drivers locate the appropriate access points to their favorite stores and restaurants.

When all is completed, the construction project will expand U.S. 95 into a four lane highway separated by a median. The expansion is meant to accommodate heavy commercial and civilian traffic as the road becomes a major thoroughfare for international trade and travel.  

Safety is a big concern as work continues, and drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians should exercise caution when moving through the area. Motorists should keep to speeds of 35 miles per hour, a limit that will be strictly enforced by law officers. In addition, bicyclists and pedestrians should proceed very carefully through the construction area. Everyone should obey flaggers at all times.

Work ended on Friday in preparation for the Labor Day weekend and will also be unattended on Monday. Everyone traveling through the area should use the same safe practices as always. Work resumes five days a week on Sept. 10.

“Everything is moving along steadily,” Kiebert said. “It’s all going very well.”