Cda Council Likely To Support Raised Traffic Barriers On U.S. 95

As one problem along U.S. Highway 95’s snaking route through the Lake City is nearing resolution, another is surfacing.

Tonight the City Council is expected to endorse an Idaho Transportation Department proposal to change the shape of Haycraft Avenue and Highway 95. It means by summer that raised islands likely will be installed along the Highway 95 portion of the intersection.

These islands will stop left turns from Haycraft onto Highway 95 and will stop vehicles from crossing the highway at Haycraft. All of this is designed to cut down on accidents at the intersection.

Simultaneously the council is expected to recommend the Transportation Department hold a public hearing to determine what to do about the intersections of Wilbur and Aqua avenues farther north on Highway 95. Developers want to open Wilbur on the east side of the highway. In return, the Transportation Department wants Aqua Avenue closed to all but right turning traffic.

In other business, Mayor Al Hassell is expected to solicit council and staff input about whether speed limits on U.S. 95 should be changed. That comes in conjunction with legislation passed this winter to raise speed limits in Idaho to 75 mph on interstates and to 65 mph on some secondary roads.

The council also is expected to:

Award a contract to Interstate Concrete and Asphalt for $55,884 for a new parking lot at Independence Point.

Approve hiring a consultant to update the 1993 impact-fee study to help determine what premium should be charged on new home construction to off-set the costs of growth. The Legislature this winter approved the use of impact fees statewide.

Approve a beer and wine license for Monarch Fisheries.

Approve the transfer of a beer and wine license from Memories Cafe to the Moon Time Restaurant and Ale House.

, DataTimes