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. |