ITD gathering feedback on long-range infrastructure plan

By Reader Staff

Idaho transportation planners are looking to the future of the state’s multi-modal infrastructure, inviting residents to weigh in on a long-range plan that will inform agency investments through 2050.

Comments on the Idaho Transportation Department’s statewide Long-Range Transportation Plan are being accepted until Sept. 20, intended to help update the federally required strategic document. The LRTP is refreshed every five years and guides decisions for future studies and projects that are then approved by the Idaho Transportation Board.

Considering factors including growth, travel demands, land use, safety, economic development, system reliability and anticipated revenue, “This policy document looks at current conditions, existing plans and future trends in Idaho, and lays the foundation for ITD to continue to deliver on our mission of safety, mobility and economic opportunity,” stated ITD Division Administrator for Planning Amy Schroeder.

“It’s not necessarily about identifying specific projects,” she added. “It’s about determining, through data analysis and public input, the best strategy for investing in the transportation system given the variability of future revenue.” 

The Long Bridge. Courtesy photo

Nearly 1,500 people participated in the first comment period online and at open houses hosted in all regions of the state in 2025. Responses to the survey recognized growth as a significant factor affecting transportation. Respondents also said they wanted ITD to focus on maintaining existing roads and bridges, investing in safety improvements and ensuring reliable system performance before pursuing major expansion or new transportation modes. 

Besides seeking public feedback, ITD has engaged with other planning organizations as the plan looks at the transportation network as a whole, which extends beyond state-managed highways to locally owned routes and alternative modes of transportation. 

ITD just closed its annual comment period in July for planned projects from 2027-’33, with comments under review and planned for presentation to the board in September.

The LRTP is expected to be released in October following adoption by the Idaho Transportation Board. 

View a pdf of the plan at bit.ly/LRTP. Get more info and submit comments at idaholrtp.com.

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