|
|
Sand Creek Byway dedicated today
|
|
June 29, 2012 |
It is what is hoped to be a good idea first
conceived 65 years ago, and at $100-million, the
largest single highway project in the history of
Idaho. Today, it was dedicated.
The controversial Sand Creek Byway, a 2.1 mile
project that connects U.S. 95 from the north end
of the Long Bridge to Highway 200 will not open
to traffic until late next month, drew
dignitaries from around the state for this
afternoon's ceremony, emceed by Sandpoint Daily
Bee editor David Keyes, who previously edited
the Bonners Ferry Herald.
Once open, the by pass will save motorists on
U.S 95 the thrill of having to negotiate the
slow and often confusing streets of downtown
Sandpoint, something drivers have had to do
since the early 1900s.
In addition to being the most expensive highway
project, it was probably the state's most
discussed projects as well.
The idea first came up in the late 1940s, with
proponents, mostly those not from Sandpoint,
touted the time savings in north-south travel,
something many Bonners Ferry citizens long
argued could mean the difference between life
and death as many of our local critical patients
are transported south for treatment after
emergencies; while opponents, mostly those from
Sandpoint, who worried that diverting traffic
would significantly hurt the city's economy.
The Idaho Transportation Department says that in
addition to speeding commerce, the new byway
will significantly improve traffic safety. |
|
|
|
|
