HOMEDALE, Idaho — Drivers traveling on Highway 95 near Homedale should prepare for delays this week as maintenance work begins on the Jump Creek Bridge.
The Idaho Transportation Department has started routine repairs on the bridge, a heavily traveled route connecting drivers through Owyhee County and into the Treasure Valley.
Crews are working daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. as part of a project designed to preserve the bridge and extend its service life. During construction, traffic is reduced to a single lane with flaggers directing alternating traffic across the bridge.
When Idaho News 6 visited the work zone Monday, traffic delays lasted approximately seven minutes while drivers waited to cross through the construction area.
WATCH | Homedale neighbors weigh in on the maintenance—
Residents in the Homedale community are already sharing mixed reactions about the project online. Some neighbors, including Rakel Gaspar, say they are not too concerned about delays because alternate backroad routes are available through Homedale and surrounding areas.
Others say the construction is already affecting their commute. Jessica Barroso says she waited nearly 15 minutes in traffic Monday morning while heading to work.
Another resident, Jesse May, voiced concerns about the overall condition of Highway 95 between Homedale and Marsing, saying the roadway has become increasingly difficult to drive safely in recent years.
Drivers traveling through the area this week will also notice a reduced speed limit through the work zone, dropping from 55 miles per hour to 35. According to ITD, repairs include expansion joint replacement, waterproofing work, bridge rail repairs, and other maintenance aimed at improving the long-term condition of the bridge.
The department says the bridge has limited sight distance because of the surrounding terrain, making it especially important for drivers to slow down and follow directions from flaggers. ITD says the project is expected to be completed by Friday.
Drivers are advised to check Idaho 511 for updated conditions and delays.
