The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
The Spokesman-Review Newspaper The Spokesman-Review
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883
Current Temperature
45°F
Current Conditions
Scattered clouds
View complete weather report
Subscribe now

Idaho Transportation Department prepares for solar eclipse

In this May 20, 2012, file photo, the annular solar eclipse is seen as the sun sets behind the Rocky Mountains from downtown Denver. Hundreds of thousands of people are expected to visit eastern Idaho for the solar eclipse on Aug. 21, and that could have a significant impact on the state’s highway system. (David Zalubowski / AP)
Associated Press

IDAHO FALLS – Hundreds of thousands of people are expected to visit eastern Idaho for the solar eclipse on Aug. 21, and that could have a significant impact on the state’s highway system.

Idaho Transportation Department spokesman Bruce King told the Post Register that the department is working closely with law enforcement agencies and local governments to prepare for the event.

King says the more traffic, the greater potential for congestion. That, in turn, increases the risk of accidents.

The department will suspend construction projects and maintenance on most highways during eclipse weekend, and officials are developing an incident response plan. King says crews and flaggers may be dispatched to help travelers deal with highway bottlenecks.