SUMMARY OF COMMUNITY DISCUSSION #1...RBCI Page 1 . SUMMARY OF COMMUNITY DISCUSSION #1 . OVERVIEW ....

RBCI Page 1

S U M M A R Y O F C O M M U N I T Y D I S C U S S I O N # 1

OVERVIEW

In June 2020, the Idaho Transporta�on Department hosted a community discussion about the Idaho 75, Elkhorn Road to River Street project. The two-week community discussion was the first in a series of public par�cipa�on opportuni�es for this project. Due to COVID-19 concerns, the discussion was held en�rely online. Purpose The purpose of the discussion was to:

• Introduce the Idaho 75, Elkhorn Road to River Street project.

• Gather input on what is working well and not so well on SH 75 between Elkhorn Road and River Street.

• Learn what the community likes and dislikes about the concept design from the 2008 Environmental Impact Statement.

• Gather input on how best to keep the community involved during �mes of social distancing.

Par�cipa�on During the weeks of the community discussion:

• 610 people visited the project website. • 448 people visited the community discussion page. • 287 people watched the video on YouTube. • 132 comments were submited for six discussion ques�ons. These comments were

emphasized, or “liked,” 476 �mes by other community members. • ITD received 11 emails.

This document includes a summary of no�fica�on methods as well as comments and ques�ons from the community.

SH-75 COMMUNITY DISCUSSION #1 | SUMMARY

RBCI Page 2

ONLINE MEETING FORMAT

Participants were invited to view information online at their convenience between June 4 and 18. Participants without online access were invited to request meeting materials by mail. The website included a 12-minute PowerPoint presentation narrated by Nathan Jerke. Participants were then invited to respond to a series of questions. They could also “like” comments from other community members by selecting a thumbs-up icon. ITD also asked community members to suggest future strategies for involving the community if in-person gatherings were not feasible (due to COVID-19 concerns). Responses are summarized on page 4.

NOTIFICATION

ITD used a variety of methods to invite the community to participate in the online discussion.

• A letter was mailed to 29 elected officials and community leaders in early June to brief them on the project and the online discussion format, invite them to participate, and ask them to share information with their colleagues.

• A member of the project team emailed 41 property owners, local jurisdictions and agencies in early June. ITD had met one-on-one with these individuals in January and March 2020.

• A postcard was distributed to 7,569 businesses and residences in Sun Valley, Hailey and Ketchum. The mailing included key stakeholders on the project database (i.e., local jurisdictions, emergency responders, agencies, community organizations, etc.).

• A half-page display ad appeared in the Idaho Mountain Express on June 5 and June 12.

• ITD distributed a media release to local news outlets on June 3. Articles about the discussion appeared in the Twin Falls Times-News, Idaho Mountain Express and Weekly News Journal.

• A calendar invitation was posted to the project website prior to the online discussion.

• The City of Ketchum included a notice in their weekly “Word on the Street” email to community members.

Web-based discussion format


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• ITD posted a Facebook invitation on June 4. The post reached 1,935 people. The City of Ketchum and Blaine County shared the invitation on their pages as well.

KEY THEMES

ITD received a wide range of comments represen�ng many different viewpoints. A few themes were consistent throughout the discussion:

• A diversity of opinions regarding the 2008 plan to widen the highway. While many believed four lanes would improve conges�on, residents expressed concerns about safety and speeding.

• Concerns about the removal of the center turn lane between Elkhorn and Serenade. • Strong support for bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure along the highway, par�cularly

north of Serenade. • Several requests to improve the intersec�on of Highway 75 and Serenade.

A summary of the community’s responses to each ques�on begins on page 4. A transcrip�on of all comments is included in the appendix to this document. ITD is preparing responses to ques�ons and will post them on the project website. Addi�onal community discussions will be scheduled later in the design process.


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SUMMARY OF COMMENTS

Community members gave numerous specific and detailed comments. A verba�m transcrip�on of all comments is available in the appendix to this document.

This summary reflects comments from the online discussion as well as leters submited via email.

1. What is working well with SH-75 between Elkhorn Road and River Street? ITD received 20 responses to this ques�on, which were “liked” a total of 99 �mes. The two overwhelmingly most-repeated responses were:

• The le�-turn lane onto Serenade Lane is very helpful. • The center turn lane north of Elkhorn is important for drivers accessing businesses and

other proper�es.

One person said they liked the reduced speed limit. Other responses pertained to ques�ons 2-4 and have been included with that part of the summary.

2. What is not working well with SH-75 between Elkhorn Road and River Street? ITD received 32 responses to this ques�on, which were “liked” a total of 118 �mes. The most o�en-repeated comment was:

• Between Serenade Lane and River Street, the highway lacks safe bicycle/pedestrian infrastructure for accessing downtown or schools (i.e., crosswalks, bike paths, pedestrian crossings and access to the bike path tunnel).

Addi�onal repeated comments included:

• Conges�on is a concern. • Speeding is a concern. • The merge from four lanes to two lanes is hazardous. • Access on/off the highway is difficult (e.g., at Mortgage Row, Gem Street, Serenade Lane).

A few par�cipants also men�oned concerns regarding drainage, winter snow removal, �ght intersec�on turning, noise and perceived dangers on the Trail Creek Bridge.

3. What do you like about the 2008 Concept Design? ITD received 11 responses to this ques�on, which were “liked” a total of 58 �mes. The two most o�en-repeated comments included:

• Sidewalks are necessary on both sides of the highway between Serenade Lane and River Street.

• Please consider a roundabout at Serenade.


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Addi�onal repeated comments included:

• Concerns about a roundabout. • Mixed opinions about widening the highway to four lanes. • The desire to have trees planted near the roadway. • Support for a new bridge.

4. What do you dislike about the 2008 Concept Design? ITD received 32 responses to this ques�on, which were “liked” 119 �mes. In order of frequency, the most o�en-repeated comments included:

• Disagreement over whether four lanes were necessary. o Many who were opposed to four lanes men�oned speeding and/or safety concerns

and suggested alternate methods such as roundabouts. o Some indicated it’s beter to have the conges�on before town (Ketchum) rather than

in town. o Others believed that expanding the road would reduce botlenecks and long

commute �mes. o Some par�cipants expressed specific concerns about the planned transi�on from

four lanes to three lanes. Several asked ITD to consider construc�ng four lanes along the en�re highway, including the Trail Creek Bridge.

o One person ques�oned whether the on-street parking would be needed from Garnet St to River St and thought it would be beter used for expanding SH-75 to four lanes.

• Concerns about the loss of the center turn lane and/or le�-turn lane. • Concerns that the 2008 study may be too outdated. • A request for pedestrian access between Serenade and River Street. • Concern that the project does not address the steep road grade near the Trail Creek bridge.

5. How best can ITD keep the community involved with this project during �mes of social distancing?

ITD received eight responses to this ques�on, which were “liked” 29 �mes. In order of frequency, the most o�en-repeated comments included:

• Apprecia�on for the online forum, especially the ability to see other comments. • Preference for the virtual format due to convenience. • Requests for updates via email, the Eye on Sun Valley, and the Mountain Express. • A request for an in-person forum in order to develop shared ideas.

6. Other comments or ques�ons ITD received 29 responses to this ques�on, which were “liked” 53 �mes.

• The majority of comments provided addi�onal detail and reasoning for previous responses.


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• Many people submited detailed ques�ons. A list of all ques�ons submited during the discussion period is included on page 6.

• Addi�onal ideas in this sec�on included: o Developing “back op�ons” to offload traffic from Main Street o Considering a “road diet” similar to Paris, Idaho o Adding a traffic signal or merge lane at Serenade Lane o Addressing safety issues from power lines near the highway o Consider a new design. o Mi�gate the removal of trees. o Consider performing the construc�on work at night during off-peak hours. o Construct retaining walls south of Neil’s Way to block snow from plows.

QUESTIONS

ITD received numerous ques�ons during the community discussion period. Ques�ons included:

Roadway width

• Is there a longer-term plan to have four lanes from Serenade to River Street? • How can you make this project not add to more conges�on downtown? • If you put in four lanes all the way into town, don't you just shi� that conges�on to the two

stop lights in the middle of town? It’s probably beter to have the conges�on before town than in the middle of town. Will this be a case where, despite the stated goal of increased safety, the project actually decreases safety for our community?

• Where is the room (on the road) for snow removal, bicycle commu�ng or even pedestrians? • There are two ra�onales stated for the project: capacity and safety. I can see how adding

more lanes adds capacity. But is the current setup unsafe? What are the sta�s�cs around that? What data do you use to jus�fy the increased safety asser�on?

• Can you add a merge lane from Serenade Road onto southbound 75? • Can the merging be done south of the Elkhorn Road light?

Public involvement

• To make sure you keep transparency, can you create an email distribu�on list so we can sign up to receive updates and reminders?

• How is ITD going to address public concerns (including past concerns from the 2008 plan)? • How can the public see the number of people that feel the same way in the online

discussion?

Maintenance

• Is there anything being done to improve the durability of the striping paint during the winter?


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• Who is responsible for snow removal on sidewalks? Will sidewalks be inaccessible during the winter? Where is the snow going to be plowed to with a wider road?

• Where is the room for snow removal, bicycle commu�ng or even pedestrians?

Bicycle/pedestrian infrastructure

• Have you considered moving the sidewalk from the east (by Weyyakin) to the west side between Hwy 75 and east of Baldy Ct. for access to the gas sta�on/mart?

• Will there be sidewalks the en�re length of the project on the east side?

Other

• Does the plan include conduit within the right-of-way for underground power transmission and distribu�on lines and any other u�li�es?

• Can we avoid a stop light at Serenade Lane? Can we keep a turn lane instead? • Given this project seems designed to deliver tourists from the airport to the exis�ng and

proposed hotels at the entrance to town, how are those developments coordina�ng with the state? Will they be bearing their righ�ul costs of this project?

• Is there any way to speed the process up? Could construc�on be scheduled for 2023? • What specifically is the plan for the new Trail Creek Bridge? Will the new road con�nue to

dip down toward Trail Creek and rise up on other side to meet River Street? • Would ITD consider building a retaining wall to increase safety for residences at Neils Way? • Do you know who currently owns the exis�ng parking lane located across from Gem Street?

Who will legally be able to park on this lane? • What is the smart vision and subsequent healthy development that will support growth

without losing the personality of Ketchum? • So what does this design accomplish, other than making the highway less safe for local

residents? • There are already several comments on speeding as a problem in this stretch of road. How

does widening the road impact that? Usually widening a road leads to an increase in speeding. Tradi�onal speed mi�gants like speed bumps and rumble strips aren't compa�ble with our snowy climate. Is this going to be a case where you build a road that you know will lead to higher speeds and the community gets stuck policing it?


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APPENDIX

Comments

• Web comments • Email comments • YouTube comments

SH-75 COMMUNITY DISCUSSION #1 | SUMMARY APPENDIX

Comments

Web discussion comments

RBCI Page 1 of 39 | June 2020

Comments for Idaho 75, Elkhorn Road to River Street 1. What is working well with SH-75 between Elkhorn Road and River Street?

Comment Likes Comment Date Author

Having a left turn lane onto Serenade Lane is very helpful, especially with

early morning ski traffic and Commuter traffic.

24 2020-06-05

09:16:42

We use the center turn lane everyday. It would be unsafe and dangerous to

remove this access point.

12 2020-06-11

08:59:06

Lefthand turn lane into Mountain View gas station and serenade lane. 10 2020-06-09

21:37:21

Can we avoid a stop light at Serenade Lane? Can we keep a turn lane

instead? Turn lanes are more consistent with the values of our community

than stop lights.

10 2020-06-05

20:46:02

Left turn lanes into west-side residences and businesses. 8 2020-06-06

12:43:08

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i do not like the number of lanes being shown. the approach to ketchum

should start at the elkhorn light and landscaped and sceniic to tie into the

beauty of this area .this is a great opportunity for us to save our scenic and

laidback values

6 2020-06-14

16:18:13

there should be a center turn lane, and only one lane of traffic in both

directions, and a sidewalk along the west side

5 2020-06-14

16:14:09

Eliminating the Center Turn Lane north of Elkhorn Road will create new

problems as the homeowners and businesses on the West side of the

highway use it daily when traveling north, and is especially important during

heavy traffic every afternoon and every morning. Traffic will have to stop and

be backed up waiting for vehicles to turn into driveways.

4 2020-06-16

06:42:13

It is essential to keep the left hand turn lane. We use it every day. It creates a

certain level of safety while accessing the houses along the road and all the

traffic in and out of the gas station.

4 2020-06-12

15:37:28

there should be reduced residential driveway access for traffic safety by

providing rear access to meadow circle

3 2020-06-14

16:28:00

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Exiting Meadow Circle onto HWY 75 during peak periods of the day, every

month of the year has been challenging but has grown dangerous over the

past 4 or 5 years. By increasing HWY 75 to 4 lanes will make it that much

more difficult for residents between Elk Horn light and Neils Way. A center

turning lane is a necessity. With the additional residential lots being

developed and the increase of cars entering and exiting Meadow Circle to

access the river, an alternate back road that connects to Elk Horn road would

allow traffic to use the stop light to safely enter or exit. This would serve the

community now and in the near future when the KOA lots are developed.

3 2020-06-14

16:22:17

the houses along the west side of sh75 should have a rear access driveway to

reduce the trafic haxard of backing out onto the highway by accessing from

meadow circle. also, it would help if meadow circle had some type of calming

trafic structure

3 2020-06-14

16:10:01

In general working fine. I would to consider a roundabout at Serenade St to

slow traffic and offer a back option on 2nd street for some of the traffic as

speeds often stay high between Serenade and River.

3 2020-06-05

19:42:52

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there should be a concrete wall along sh75 for sound reduction for the

existing residences

2 2020-06-14

16:30:10

I heard that a roundabout or rotary was being considered for 75 and

Serenade Lane. In any event, the speed limit needs to be reduced to 25 mph,

since there3 is a curve in the roadway, a turn, and lots of commercial traffic.

1 2020-06-17

14:14:12

It is very important to have a left turn lane from Elkhorn Road to at least past

the gas station. The left turn lane is used by all of the houses along the route

and removal would cause a public safety nightmare.

1 2020-06-17

10:26:13

A center turn lane between Elkhorn and Serenade is more important than

the number lanes going north and south. The 66' wide right of way given the

existing topography is wide enough to support 5 lanes. I would probably

favor one northbound, one southbound, and a center turn lane for an

esthetic south entrance to Ketchum.

0 2020-06-19

11:31:06

The reduced speed limit as you are entering town makes sense. Please

maintain.

0 2020-06-18

15:33:51

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The center turn lane is a necessary safety turning feature as well as a buffer

for north/south traffic. The traffic at the turn at Serenade lane and north of

there can get close. Can this turn be Straightened out some while providing

for safety and an aesthetic entrance into town as well as providing an easily

identifiable entry to Bald Mountain. More room is needed here. There is a

good sight line for drivers from Elkhorn road north keeping this an

appropriate narrowing opportunity for traffic. Stretch out/lengthen this

opportunity? Traffic has to taper eventually, keep it on a straight run. If it

meets ITD standards, can the center buffer lane be wider. This provides for a

more aesthetic and safer through a fare which will allow passage of

emergency vehicles (Baldy to Hospital) and passage around troubled

vehicles. Lastly, the roadway would be safer if the power poles were

eliminated.

0 2020-06-17

14:09:37

Not only a turn lane at Serenade but a light would enhance safety 0 2020-06-06

15:12:16

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2. What is not working well with SH-75 between Elkhorn Road and River Street?


There is no pedestrian infrastructure (sidewalks/crosswalks) for the

neighborhood between Serenade Lane and River Street.

27 2020-06-04

12:50:05

SH-75 is very congested at peak times. 18 2020-06-03

12:59:58

There really needs to be a safe crosswalk over Hwy 75 somewhere

between Serenade and River. The bike path meets the highway at

Serenade and there is no safe access for bikes or pedestrians.

11 2020-06-10

08:49:50

Traffic backs up in Ketchum as cars traveling south funnel from a four lane

road into a two lane road. Merging cars create hazards.

11 2020-06-05

08:57:57

The existing speed limit of 35 mph to 25 mph at Gem Street results in the

majority of traffic exceeding the speed limit (45 mph) at this point on 75. I

am a resident at this section of hwy 75 and it is very dangerous. I would

recommend reducing the speed limit to 25 at Serenade Lane to eliminate

this issue

6 2020-06-13

11:01:02

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The existing sidewalk and lack of bike path is extremely unsafe for both

pedestrians and cyclists attempting to enter into the town of Ketchum

both northbound and southbound.

6 2020-06-13

10:55:25

Walking or biking from Garnet St, where I live, to downtown along Hwy 75

can be a challenge, particularly in winter. Pedestrian ways are limited or

non-existent, and with no traffic signals at all, both biking and walking can

require dangerous exposure to heavy traffic. Increasingly filled with young

families, safe pedestrian and biking access is an important aspect of living

in the Gem Streets neighborhood. I encourage ITD to consider including

pedestrian and biking access ways to the Highway 75 widening plan. This

would allow residents on both sides of Hwy 75 to reach downtown

Ketchum without using a motor vehicle, which must be a plus from an ITD

perspective. Providing a traffic signal - perhaps one activated on demand

by pedestrians rather than cyclically slowing traffic - in addition to

pedestrian access ways would be the perfect solution. Thank you for your

consideration.

6 2020-06-11

11:34:11

Traffic frequently exceeds the speed limit. We should take this opportunity

to use modern traffic calming strategies and other techniques, such as lane

narrowing which reduces speeds, minimizes crashes, and improves safety.

6 2020-06-11

09:03:15

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Traffic rounds achieve similar results.

The speed limit does not drop to 25 mph until close to the sockeye

shopping area. This makes it very hard to merge out of those

driveways/side streets between serenade lane and the shopping area. A

center lane will be helpful but I would like to see the speed zone changed

at serenade lane to make it safer along that stretch of road.

6 2020-06-06

08:59:53

The merge is horrendous on weekday mornings when school is in session. 5 2020-06-08

09:44:13

I agree that the increase in traffic is stressful for our community. The City

of Ketchum foresaw this and noted the need to reduce access points to

HWY 75 “especially in the Mortgage Row” as outlined in their

Comprehensive Plan in 2001 and then again in 2014. It was proposed that

the City of Ketchum should pursue rear access to HWY 75 “especially for

residents of Mortgage Row.” Now HWY 75 traffic is so bad that there is a

need to double the lanes. However, no one is addressing the issues that

the City of Ketchum has acknowledged consistently over the past 19 years.

The increase of HWY 75 is not just loud and inconvenient for residents of

Mortgage Row, it is actually dangerous. Widening the HWY to 4 lanes does

2 2020-06-14

17:45:26





nothing to address this issue.

It is very congested during about 4 hours a day, 365 days a year. Also the

increase of traffic that is mandating a change is also making it very noisy

for those of us who live on HWY 75 between Elk Horn and Serenade. By

increasing this section to 4 lanes will only make traffic move faster, create

more noise and make it more difficult and dangerous to access our homes

and the HWY.

2 2020-06-14

16:28:58

Access to Andrea Lane and the Sockeye Building is very challenging with no

turn lane and creates safety hazards when cars use the shoulder to go

around a north-bound car trying to turn. The same is true for south-bound

traffic trying to turn onto the Gem Streets.

2 2020-06-08

09:40:10

Congestion in Ketchum is a safety matter. Main Street one-way going

North and Washington going South is a desirable option.

2 2020-06-06

14:16:02

Agree traffic is heavy. Entering from Gem to 75 is dangerous. The bridge

over Trail Creek is dangerous and you option is great. Finally adding side

walks all the way to River is a great idea. I sometimes ride my bike North

2 2020-06-05

19:45:59

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between Serenade and River and always feels dangerous.

too much congestion going from 4 lanes at Elkhorn Rd to two lanes pre

Seranade Lane

1 2020-06-16

19:08:06

Trail Creek Bridge is fine as is. Actually, it is very nice the way it is and

provides for a nice gateway to Ketchum. Spend ITD money where it is

needed.

1 2020-06-13

12:19:21

A traffic round at Elkhorn or dedicated right turn lane would clarify traffic

movement.

1 2020-06-11

09:41:29

Large puddles are a problem in the right hand Northbound lane right after

the Bigwood Bridge. Curb seems to prevent drainage.

1 2020-06-10

14:19:40

Concrete curbs and the accompanying drains like the ones south of

Elkhorn Rd. to B.W. Bridge and even the newer ones south of the bridge to

Cold Springs seems to allow puddles to form and keep water on the road

longer than just a traditional sloped road to a barrow pit/ditch. The

concrete curbs with the french drains are not maintained and fill with

1 2020-06-07

18:26:42

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sand, cost more, and can't image they are much fun for a plow truck

operator. I suppose the concrete looks pretty, if your in to that

urban/manicured look.... Thanks ITD for providing this space to discuss and

a job well done.

When very busy, traffic merging from serenade lane onto 75 creates even

more grid lock back into Ketchum

1 2020-06-07

14:14:44

Children living east of the highway have no safe walking or bicycling route

to school. There needs to be a crosswalk.

0 2020-06-18

13:16:37

Can the merging be done south of the Elkhorn road light? 0 2020-06-17

14:15:56

The above photo shows it well. Cars turning right from Elkhorn road onto

the highway usually merge into the left-most northbound lane, causing a

backup as drivers wait for both northbound lanes to clear before turning

right. This is probably because of three factors: The turn is quite sharp, the

right-most lane seems too narrow, and learned behavior from winter

driving when ITD leaves a large bank of snow inside the right lane itself,

0 2020-06-17

09:30:28





further narrowing the lane (this lane is also plowed less frequently and has

deeper snow in it as a result). If we are to have four lanes here, let's move

the power pole at the corner a bit more north, cut out a better turn, and

move the snow all the way out of the lane in winter, i.e. plow it like it's a

four-lane road. My other complaint about this intersection is that

northbound cars in the right lane are now (since widening) zooming

through at 45 MPH or more, either because they don't see or are ignoring

the 35MPH sign located immediately before the intersection. In the winter,

safety is even more impacted by the snowbank on the southeast corner of

the intersection that impedes the Elkhorn road driver's view of

northbound traffic in the right-most lane of Hwy75.

Congestion during peak times, particularly when school is in session would

be greatly alleviated if there were more public transportation. School

buses would eliminate a lot of traffic instead of parents driving their kids to

school. It would also cause less pollution. Having the transportation

department make these plans limits the possibilities, if you're a hammer,

everything looks like a nail.....

0 2020-06-17

08:47:28

Storm runoff from Hwy 75 crossing Trail Creek flows into the Creek. This is

unnecessary pollution that is likely harmful for aquatic species. I have a

video of last week's thundershower that shows the runoff coming under

0 2020-06-13

12:13:20





the cement blockades, then down a walkway to Andora Villa parking lot,

then into Trail Creek. Let me know where I should send the video if you

would like to see it.

Rarely does anyone drive the 35mph speed limit. It is dangerous to enter

the highway from the houses along the highway as well as the gas station.

Speed limit signs with blinking red lights would be helpful. Snow

accumulation along the highway during heavy snow years is dangerous as

the snow plows continue to pile it very high and it has buried the white

line, narrowing the roadway. It is even more dangerous for roadside

homeowners to enter the highway. We have had to dig out the snow berm

in order to see down the highway.

0 2020-06-12

15:52:01

All of the above itemized comments are correct and the area is one of

accidents waiting to happen.

0 2020-06-11

08:16:18

Awkward to move in to right hand Southbound Lane just before Elkhorn

light as you have to intentionally jog over to the right. That lane seems

narrow and curb seems to narrow it further. It isn't natural to move into

the lane and people don't seem to like being in it.

0 2020-06-10

14:17:58





traffic backs up coming into ketchum going north for same reason, two

lanes down to one

0 2020-06-07

14:38:11

Northbound traffic has to merge into one lane north of Elkhorn Rd. Heavy

northbound morning traffic moves into left lane well south of Elkhorn Rd

making merge between Elkhorn Rd. And merge point contentious at times.

0 2020-06-06

12:45:50

How can you make this project not add to more congestion downtown?

Better to have the congestion before town than in town.

0 2020-06-05

20:48:31




3. What do you like about the 2008 Concept Design?


Please consider a roundabout at Serenade. 18 2020-06-03

13:00:43

I think sidewalks on both sides of the highway between Serenade Lane and

River Street are very necessary.

14 2020-06-08

09:41:51

The design looks great. I do not believe there should be a roundabout at

Serenade and the design should be left as is there.

7 2020-06-04

14:02:02

a merging lane for southbound traffic from serenade with a yield sign

instead of stop might be helpful...

6 2020-06-07

14:43:16

I had same idea on roundabout. They slow traffic without lights. Also offers

beautification in the middle of round about. Finally more sideways is

fantastic idea on both sides. I still would love trees and more planting in

the mix if possible. Even if on 2 or 3 feet between sidewalks and streets.

5 2020-06-05

19:49:12

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Other than new pavement - there is very little to like about the outdated

2008 design concept. You will create a dangerous speedway from the

Elkhorn light to Serenade Lane. With no center turn lane - there will be

multiple head on and rear end crashes. Your plan does not address the

volume of customers that use the gas station, or the homeowners along

the highway.

3 2020-06-12

15:59:09

The road does need repaving, not widening. A roundabout at Serenade

Land and Elkhorn would be a safer, and efficient method to manage times

of congestion. Maintaing the center turn lane is critical for the safe use and

access on SH-75.

2 2020-06-11

09:07:04

Don’t add a roundabout at serenade lane. Traffic would really back in both

rush hours

2 2020-06-07

09:57:10

Having 4 lanes from Elkhorn to Seranade will be a significant improvement,

but I wonder how the merge will be handled at Seranade during the

morning northbound rush. A traffic circle with circle having ROW might

shut off southbound traffic during heavy AM northbound rush.

1 2020-06-06

16:09:58

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The new bridge with sidewalks is essential. Snow from snow plows at the

bridge needs to be addressed. Thank you for recognizing the need for

change.

0 2020-06-17

14:23:49

I like the bridge replacement I like the sidewalks on both sides Bikes should

stay on the bikepath

0 2020-06-16

19:12:05




4. What do you dislike about the 2008 Concept Design?


Good to see sidewalks for both sides of the roadway. 18 2020-06-04

12:53:06

Speeding is already an issue. Lower the speed limit. 14 2020-06-04

15:00:30

The wider roadway may contribute to more speeding. Please consider

lowering the speed limit to 25 mph from Serenade northward.

12 2020-06-04

12:54:42

I strongly disagree with going to 4 lanes! Any kind of roundabouts, surface

contouring, curved plantings, narrowing, sidewalks all would help. 4 lanes to

River just moves the speed up to River.

11 2020-06-05

19:53:46

We need to be more forward thinking! This study was done in 2008. We

have more traffic and traffic backs up going into and out of Ketchum where

the roadway narrows from 4 driving lanes to 2 lanes. You mentioned there

was room for a fourth lane in the future. Don’t be short sighted, the future

is now! Create 4 lanes from River street to Elkhorn Road to eliminate

10 2020-06-05

09:07:59

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difficult merging and backups into and out of Ketchum.

Please consider adding a crosswalk somewhere between Serenade and River

St. There is no safe place to cross 75 currently.

8 2020-06-08

08:12:16

- I think after section B) prior to Mountain View there needs to be a left

hand turn lane option. Mountain generates a lot of traffic especially from

the locals to and from work. Not having a left hand turn lane could cause

some concerns considering right now there is a middle lane to use when

making the current turn. - The 4 lanes should be continuous from Garnett

Street to River Street. The street parking from Garnett to Andrea Lane has

always been an eyesore and could be put to better use with the expansion

of 4 lanes coming into town.

6 2020-06-04

14:07:09

I live on Hwy 75 just north of Elkhorn Road. I have two points to make: 1.

The center turn lane is absolutely crucial for making safe turns heading

north. Eliminating this lane will create a dangerous situation for everyone

who lives between Elkhorn Rd. and Serenade. 2. The rate of traffic flow

through Ketchum is the flow restriction. This determines how many vehicles

can move through town. You could have 20 lanes going into town and the

total number of vehicles moving through town per minute would be the

4 2020-06-16

10:01:16





same. So what does this design accomplish, other than making the highway

less safe for local residents?

As many have written - having no center turn lane is very dangerous. There

is very little about this plan that makes much sense. From Serenade Lane to

Elkhorn light is about a mile. So commuters are inconvenienced for a few

minutes. The highway starts widening out to two lanes just past Meadow

Circle Rd, which alleviates most, if any backup. Prior to the IDT road the

bridge widening south of Elkhorn Lt - there was heavy back up and many

rear end crashes. Since this work was completed - there is rarely any back

up during the evening commute. I live on the highway and have witnessed it

every day. We need to keep the design we currently have to maintain as

safe a roadway as possible. There is NOTHING safe about the 2008 plan.

4 2020-06-12

16:15:22

People seem to be concerned with traffic congestion prior to town. But if

you put in four lanes all the way into town, don't you just shift that

congestion to the two stop lights right smack dab in the middle of town?

Probably better to have the congestion before town than in the middle of

town. Will this be a case where, despite the stated goal of increased safety,

the project actually decreases safety for our community? There are already

several comments on speeding as a problem in this stretch of road. How

does widening the road impact that? Usually widening a road leads to an

4 2020-06-05

21:01:44





increase in speeding. Traditional speed mitigants like speed bumps and

rumble strips aren't compatible with our snowy climate. Is this going to be a

case where you build a road that you know will lead to higher speeds and

the community gets stuck policing it?

I disagree with adding additional lanes right before Ketchum. It will make no

difference and just create a backup of traffic right at the entrance to

Ketchum instead of a little further back which doesn't change the problem

of traffic backup. It will still exist. In the meantime the construction would

just create worse backup for a long time. Please don't do it. it is pointless

3 2020-06-11

13:57:31

The proposed plan is based on an Environmental Impact Report completed

in 2008, a very different era. We should take this opportunity to review this

report and its affect on current plans. Is the gateway into the city limits of

Ketchum a 4 lane highway? The 4 lane concept only moves traffic from one

choke-point to another, without traffic calming or resolution. We are

extremely concerned about safety with the loss of a center turn lane - which

we use everyday. In addition, we believe the loss of this turn lane will

devalue our property and this area of the City of Ketchum. The Ketchum

Comprehensive Plan, 2014, Goal M-1, Policy M-1.2 includes reduction of

access points where possible on SH-75. Where is the room for snow

3 2020-06-11

09:31:15





removal, bicycle commuting or even pedestrians?

Eliminating the north-bound turn lane for access to Meadow Circle and

Mountainview Grocery/Gas station seems dangerous as cars will be moving

pretty quickly and if there's no turn lane, turning vehicles will be forced to

stop in a moving lane.

3 2020-06-08

09:46:20

Again, I'd have to say that we should look for ways to have less traffic

instead of making larger roadways, public transportation and school buses.

2 2020-06-17

08:49:35

Eliminating the Center turn lane is a bad idea. All the homeowners and

business owners on the west side use it daily and it is especially vital during

the rush hours. Traffic will be backed up waiting for vehicles to turn left.

2 2020-06-16

06:45:46

Must ensure a left hand (west) turn lane for northbound traffic at Base

Camp gas station -- Base Camp and the c-store get lots of traffic from

commuters + locals and the current center lane is frequently used. If there is

no center lane or no left-hand turning lane, the site could become

dangerous and a major traffic generator, especially during the AM

commute, as many would stop in the proposed left northbound lane to turn

2 2020-06-10

07:46:33





left

Please create a four lane road from Elkhorn Rd. to the four lane in Ketchum.

Opposition to that concept in 2008 drove the current concept and should to

be rethought. My hope is that residents of Ketchum are now more realistic

about infrastructure development needs than 12 years ago.

2 2020-06-09

13:02:36

There needs to be a left hand turn lane or center turn lane from Elkhorn

Road to Neils Way for northbound traffic to access individual homes on the

west side of the highway plus access to Meadow Circle and Mountain View

Grocery. Also, please continue the four through lanes (two north bound and

two south bound) from Serenade Lane into Ketchum. Dropping one

northbound lane at Serenade Lane will create a bottleneck and right now,

there is a bottleneck leaving Main Street in Ketchum where it drops from

two southbound lanes to one. Lets fully use the new four lane bridge over

Trail Creek. Don't forget a center turn lane from Serenade to the new bridge

for access to Gem, Garnett, etc. plus the residential and business' on the

west side of the highway

2 2020-06-08

10:11:21

I would like to see a roundabout considered at Serenade Lane - it would

provide more fluid access for turning traffic, slow down traffic before it

2 2020-06-08

09:47:47





comes into Ketchum, and create a welcoming entrance to our town.

Have you considered moving the sidewalk from the East (by Weyyakin) to

the West side between Hwy 75 and East of Baldy Ct. for access to the gas

station/mart?

1 2020-06-17

09:39:58

I grew up in Ketchum and Hailey. I have seen so much change. This is one i

need to speak up about. The Trail Creek bridge is fine. I live close to it and go

over it often. Please put the money towards other more needed

improvements. This is a waste of money.

1 2020-06-13

12:28:44

Have the Trail Creek bridge be 4 lanes right off the bat. To go from 4 lanes to

3 lanes then to 4 lanes again creates an unnecessary choke point and will

just be a bigger problem in the future. It is needed now and will be the fix

that the south entrance to Ketchum needs to accurately address the future

development to that area.

1 2020-06-12

09:55:42

I agree that if there is any way to put 5 lanes from Serenade to River Street,

it should be done. There will be a big traffic bottleneck here during peak

commute times and after big events if this is not done. The 2008 plan calls

for one lane in each direction with a center divider, which creates a Major

1 2020-06-09

22:18:59





bottleneck here. Keeping the 25/35 mph speed limit in this area should keep

the number of accidents down.

Wherever 4 lanes shrink to 2 there will be bottlenecks. Is there a longer-

term plan to have 4 lanes from Seranade to River Street?

1 2020-06-06

16:13:08

We need to get this project and all Hwy 75 projects started sooner! Hwy 75

is a disgrace with 2 lanes going to three, then to four and back to two in

many areas as you already know! We need 4 lanes, wider shoulders,center

turn lanes all the way from the Stanton Crossing or at least in Belview all the

way to Saddle Rd. I believe that was the plan back in 08, if I recall. Its 2020

and a mismash of projects and poor paving jobs dont cut it wth many area's

of 75 in dire repair! The traffic is increasing rapidly and bottlenecks occur

daily! This valley generates a lot of tax revenue for the state of Idaho, so lets

get started and get Hwy 75 up to standards!

1 2020-06-06

15:08:38

Design does deal with narrowing of 75 at the Trail Creek Bridge, but does

not address the steepness of the grade between Trail Creek and River

Street. Due to the shadow created by the Limelight Hotel, the pavement in

that section can stay icy well into the afternoon and evening.

1 2020-06-05

14:28:51

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As a resident of Neils Way, I am strongly requesting a roundabout or

stoplight at Serenade and Hwy 75. People need to SLOW down. Cars speed

45-50 MPH through this corridor. Let's look at Bellevue. The speed limit of

25 MPH along Hwy 75 extends through Bellevue at least a couple miles.

Folks are used to it. Rather than 4 lanes between Elkhorn and River, let's

keep our 3 lanes, slow things down, and add a roundabout or traffic light at

Serenade. Another thing... Neils Way residents will find it almost impossible

pulling out onto Hwy 75 north without a center lane.

0 2020-06-17

18:53:56

I disagree with the removal of the center turn lane. 0 2020-06-17

10:29:51

A center turn lane is necessary for access to the residences and gas station

on the West side of Hwy 75 by the Elkhorn light for North bound traffic.

Everything North of Weyyakin is great. Really like the updated turn into and

out of Serenade lane!

0 2020-06-17

09:51:06

two lanes on the bridge will continue congestion 0 2020-06-16

19:14:53





As a homeowner on Glade Court which has access to Hwy 75 via Meadow

Circle, I do not see how eliminating the middle turn lane and creating 4

lanes of traffic will be safe. Without a turn lane, northbound travelers

wishing to access residences or businesses (i.e. the gas station) on the west

side will have to stop in a traffic lane to wait to cross the southbound lane,

this will create the potential for rear end collisions. Not having a center lane

will also make it much more difficult to access the highway from the west

side if you wish to turn north. Currently, during peak traffic, it is often

necessary to take refuge in the turn lane in order to get into the northbound

lane. If you eliminate the center turn lane, there needs to be a change in

design to provide safe access for the residents on the west side of the road

from Elkhorn Road to Neils Way.

0 2020-06-16

14:19:18

This comment describes a highway problem that is widespread and probably

cannot be dealt with on a project by project basis. The comment is that

snow clearance and ant-icing steps result in degradation of the visibility of

highway striping lines. As winter wears on those lines become less and less

visible, especially during night visibility. Is there anything being done to

improve the durability of the striping paint?

0 2020-06-05

14:33:16

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5. How best can ITD keep the community involved with the project during times of social distancing?


The forum you are using here seems like a great one! It’s easy to comment

and it’s nice that you can show your approval for other’s comments. Plus it

should reveal where the consensus lies with the community.

10 2020-06-05

09:12:06

the mailer info was a good reminder to use this site ... 5 2020-06-07

14:50:10

Time to more of this technology driven feedback and fewer meetings in

person. No one has time to attend and I learn from others in the process.

Well done!!

5 2020-06-05

19:55:18

This is a project that is ridiculously overdue in inception and completion. If

ever there were a no-brainer, this is it. Get it done!

3 2020-06-07

09:46:43

I prefer the virtual format. But to make sure you keep transparency, can you

create an email distribution list so we can sign up to receive updates and

reminders?

3 2020-06-05

20:50:17

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As you move along please create an update visually once again. Keep up to

date with Eye on Sun Valley and the Mountain Express Thank you

1 2020-06-16

19:16:42

Your presentation was really helpful. The current and then the concept

shown visually was good. Thank you

1 2020-06-16

19:09:35

The online forum is helpful and allows residents to send in comments;

however it does not allow for the developent of shared ideas that would

happen in a live in-person community forum. I hope there will be an

opportunity to meet in-person, as soon as it is possible.

1 2020-06-11

09:35:09




6. Other comments or questions


Thank you 10 2020-06-03

13:41:55

Does the plan include conduit within the right-of-way for underground

power transmission and distribution lines and any other utilities?

7 2020-06-04

16:22:15

I disagree with adding more lanes. it won't help. The traffic still needs to

funnel down somewhere. Instead it will just funnel down in Ketchum

creating a backup there so its pointless. It will also build up traffic for a very

long time for such a fruitless endeavor.

6 2020-06-11

13:53:52

We really need more back options to offload some of the Main St load.

Maybe via 2nd, we can’t just stuff more traffic thru Main St. especially once

you add two more big hotels on River.

6 2020-06-05

19:58:06

How is IDT going to address the public concerns. During our first meeting at

Limelight Hotel,it was presented as "this is the plan that was approved and

funded - to change it would set it back several years." It felt like you were

4 2020-06-12

16:23:50

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going to go ahead with the plan regardless of any public comments. Many of

us highway dwellers would rather see it stay the same as it is far safer than

what is currently planned.

Sidewalks from the Gem streets to River are essential for safety along this

corridor. It could reduce traffic along this stretch as well. I would love to see

them included.

4 2020-06-11

18:35:28

It's apparent that the dot is picking and choosing which comments to show

to the public, since many comments are not presented. Also, it seems that if

a number of people have similar views, only one is shown. So how can the

public see the number of people that feel the same way?? Also, there is a

HUGE difference between residents that live along this stretch versus those

that just want get to town as fast as possible. The safety and liveability of

those that live along this section of road should be paramount and

respectful of the Mortgage Row special section of the Ketchum

comprehensive plan. Our city leaders have ignored it.

2 2020-06-16

09:01:04

Who is responsible for snow removal on sidewalks or will sidewalks be

inaccessible during the winter? It would seem to make sense to lower the

speed limit from 35mph to 25mph before Seranade Lane given there are 4

2 2020-06-14

08:39:10





street and two driveway accesses on the east side of the highway before the

Trail Creek bridge. There would also be increased pedestrian traffic trying to

cross the highway necessitating designated pedestrian crosswalks with

crossing flags. Also, increased bicycle use could be a safety factor. Thank

you, Gem Street Resident

I think an evaluation of what is causing the backups north and south need to

be done or redone and make sure that problem is getting fixed. Two lanes

will not fix the problem it will only mean there will be two lanes of backup.

My assumption is the Elkhorn Road and Hospital Drive lights are causing the

afternoon backup heading south. There is probably not enough capacity

through Ketchum and not enough capacity allowing exiting into Ketchum

causing the northbound morning backup. Very difficult to envision no center

turn lane between Elkhorn Road and Neil's Way/East of Baldy Ct. Where is

the snow going to be plowed to with a wider road? I don't think the layout is

correct as the lettered (AA-EE) brackets don't appear to be in the correct

locations of the lane shifts.

2 2020-06-13

14:25:11

We are very concerned about the center turn lane access and snow

removal.

2 2020-06-11

09:36:27





There are two rationales stated for the project: capacity and safety. I can

see how adding more lanes adds capacity. But is the current set up unsafe?

What are the statistics around that? What data do you use to justify the

increased safety assertion?

2 2020-06-05

20:54:05

My general comment is that we need a sidewalk from Elkhorn Road north

into Main Street. We need the speed limit to be no more than 25 mph from

Elkhorn Road into Main Street, because of the volume of traffic, large

commercial vehicles, and vehicles coming into Ketchum that are unfamiliar

with our town.

1 2020-06-17

14:17:56

During rush hour in the morning, it is very difficult to leave the Gem Street

neighborhood and turn south onto Highway 75. And during the late

afternoon rush hour, it is likewise difficult to leave the Gem Street

neighborhood and turn south onto Highway 75. And it is equally difficult to

leave Serenade Lane and turn north onto Highway 75 during rush hour

periods (including at the end of the ski day in winter). These situations

would be greatly improved by the placement of a traffic signal ate the

intersection of Highway 75 and Serenade Lane, thereby creating a break in

traffic flow which would allow safer access to the Highway from the Gem

Streets and Serenade Lane. A traffic signal in this location would also serve

1 2020-06-15

10:05:53





to slow vehicles to the posted speed limit, along a section of roadway where

speeding is frequent.

the city of ketchum has the ability to add rear access along the bike path for

the existing residences to improve traffic safety, and the scenic feel of the

area

1 2020-06-14

16:34:03

Please consider performing the work during the night. Much of the work can

be performed during off-peak hours with proper planning. Thank you

1 2020-06-08

10:41:20

Is there anyway to speed the process up? Plan is great but the amount of

time to completion is not impressive.

1 2020-06-07

18:12:33

Given this project seems designed to deliver tourists from the airport to the

existing and proposed hotels at the entrance to town, how are those

developments coordinating with the state? Will they be bearing their

rightful costs of this project?

1 2020-06-05

20:51:54

We should look at the 'road diet' project developed in Paris, Idaho. It

appears to be highly effective in calming traffic, enhancing downtown main

0 2020-06-19

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street and improving local climate. https://itd.idaho.gov//news/itds-

southeast-idaho-office-partners-with-small-town-to-put-us-89-on-road-diet-

solve-speeding-issue/

09:03:24

What specifically is the plan for the new Trail Creek Bridge? Will the new

road continue to dip down toward Trail Creek and rise up on other side to

meet River St. I am concerned that to straighten, widen and raise the road

over Trail Creek will diminish the charm (for want of a better word) of the

entrance to Ketchum. The present configuration of this section of 75 adds to

the sense of a small mountain town. It also causes traffic to slow and not

speed into town. Something that a straightened, flat and wider road design

will promote.

0 2020-06-18

15:16:40

Sidewalks and crosswalks are critical for the people living east of the

highway, especially for families who would like or need their children to

walk or bike to school. The east-west bike/ped connections across HWY

75/Main St. are an issue across the valley and only exacerbated along

stretches with high speeds and congestion like this one. Crosswalks and

bike/ped infrastructure across narrower roads, turning lanes, and round

abouts are viable solutions.

0 2020-06-18

12:52:06

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As I see it, the biggest positive to this project would be the addition of extra

lanes from the Elkhorn intersection to Serenade Lane. Since many locals

coming north will peel off at Serenade lane that will reduce the amount

coming into town, but not having to merge for just 600 yds. before the

existing Serenade left turn lane will help considerably with Northbound

traffic. If a Southbound acceleration lane is added at Serenade it will also

help. As for the work between Serenade and River Street, it doesn't make

much sense to me except for adding a continuous sidewalk. The merge will

still have to happen just after Serenade and the extreme long term

disruption of replacing the Trail Creek Bridge isn't worth it unless the four

lanes can be continued all the way to the current four lanes of Main Street.

That would probably be four times the cost of the current project and might

require so much condemnation as to be impossible. I think the most bang

for the buck would simply be adding two lanes from just north of the

Elkhorn intersection to Serenade, one of which would become the existing

left turn lane with an added acceleration lane for Southbound traffic there

to just before the barn.

0 2020-06-18

10:28:58

I lived 'mid-Valley' for 40 years. For the last 2 years I have lived in Ketchum.

My commute got worse & worse over those 40 years due to more & more

traffic (more out-of-county commuters). A 15-minute drive was VERY

frequently 60-75 minutes, in or out, depending on the time chosen for that

0 2020-06-17

19:12:16





drive. Our lives revolved around when to plan a trip in or out of Ketchum to

AVOID that 75 minute stupid trip. Until there are 2 lanes in & 2 lanes out of

Ketchum (with appropriately placed turn lanes & pedestrian access where

necessary) all other efforts will not solve the bottleneck coming into

Ketchum. The next bottleneck is Ketchum itself. I know the town does not

want to change the traffic pattern, but 2 lanes north & probably separate 2

lanes south are the ONLY solution to get around that. Main & Washington

are probably the best 2 options for that. I'd be glad to discuss/share my 42-

year resident/commuter perspective with you if you would like. Thanks

We live on Neils Way along the highway. We already have had a car crash

through our fence which could have killed or severely injured a person in the

driveway. There is a police report and I have photos. Also, city snow plows

pummel our driveway, garage, and cars as they push ice, rocks, and snow

directly over our fence. I have photos of this as well. We are requesting a

retaining wall starting at the north end of Neils Way heading south along the

highway.

0 2020-06-17

18:28:37

I am 1000% opposed to adding more lanes on this very small stretch of

highway leading into Ketchum. I’ve been driving the stretch for 30 years and

never felt that it is so dangerous that we need a 4 lane Highway to enter

Ketchum. If it is so dangerous, reduce the speed limit and make the

0 2020-06-17

14:39:46





sidewalks safer...rather than spend an incredible amount of money.... for

what in the end? You will destroy what makes this place so special...and you

will eat up valuable green space that borders the current highway. Of all the

things this Valley needs, do you really think one of them is a four-lane

highway along a very small stretch of road leading directly into Ketchum?

The plan calls for maintaining existing parking lanes. Do you know who

currently owns the existing parking lane located across from Gem Street?

Who will legally be able to park on this lane?

0 2020-06-13

11:05:08

Will there be sidewalks the entire length of the project on the East side? Can

you add a merge lane from Serenade Road onto south bound 75?

0 2020-06-12

16:15:05

We are very concerned the center turn lane and enough room for snow

removal.

0 2020-06-11

13:34:40

It's not obvious how one's opinion gets transmitted. There's no final

"submit" button.

0 2020-06-10

12:41:14

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I believe a very dangerous situation exists on Highway 75 in the one mile

just south of the Elkhorn Road intersection. Several power poles lie within 5

feet of the east side lane of traffic. I can't believe that is within safety codes.

I think it is a fatal accident just waiting to happen on some snowy slippery

day.

0 2020-06-06

09:47:25

mailto:[email protected]://itdprojects.org/wp-admin/edit-comments.php?s=68.105.213.246&mode=detail

From: Sent: Thursday, June 04, 2020 2:20 PM To: Nathan Jerke Subject: [EXTERNAL] Idaho 75, Elkhorn Road to River Street Hello Nathan - I saw the comment period has opened for the Idaho 75 improvement from Elkhorn Road to River Street in Ketchum. Thank you for your continuing work on this! I live on Topaz Street in Ketchum, between Serenade Ln and River St. and we are very excited about getting some sidewalks in the future. You will probably see some of my comments on the project website. Earlier this year, I reached out to the city of Ketchum about adding a crosswalk over Highway 75 somewhere in the area of Garnet, Topaz and Emerald Streets. Those streets are essentially islands right now with no safe pedestrian access. Our family has young children who will soon be walking and biking to school, so we have been particularly keen on safe routes. The city of Ketchum was going to reach out to you and your colleagues at ITD about a crosswalk study for this site, but then the Coronavirus quarantine arrived and their focus has understandably been elsewhere. I wanted to reach out directly to you and see if it was possible to get a crosswalk study in motion so that we could potentially have some interim solution for pedestrians while we wait for the completion of the full highway improvement project. Being able to access the west side of highway 75 via a crosswalk would mean better access to the bike path, backstreets, etc. and make it much safer for residents of the Gem Streets neighborhood. Thank you very much, please feel free to call me on the number below if you would like to have a phone conversation.

mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.facebook.com/IdahoTransportationDepartment/?ref=tshttps://mobile.twitter.com/idahoitdhttps://www.youtube.com/user/idahoitdhttps://www.facebook.com/IdahoTransportationDepartment/?ref=tshttps://mobile.twitter.com/idahoitdhttps://www.youtube.com/user/idahoitdhttps://www.facebook.com/IdahoTransportationDepartment/?ref=tshttps://mobile.twitter.com/idahoitdhttps://www.youtube.com/user/idahoitd

From: Sent: Thursday, June 04, 2020 2:01 PM To: Nathan Jerke Cc: Jessica Williams Subject: Re: [EXTERNAL] Re: General Inquiry: Big Wood River Bridge

Thank you, Nathan.

I laughed out loud a bit when I read the “art is in the eye of the beholder” and I guess that’s true. However, I’m very hopeful that we will not be giving the Trail Creek Bridge the same treatment on the upcoming design.

Neil Bradshaw (Mayor of Ketchum) is family through marriage and I’ll discuss best path on getting the removal of scrap metal on the bridge. As I said before, I’m definitely not the only person who feels that way and I’m glad to hear our views align.

The upcoming design looks amazing and I just downloaded a pdf version. I’ll be sure to make a cameo appearance in the comment section for my support. Although, I would like to see a continuous 4 lanes from Garnett st to River st...

My cousins live on Emerald st and I’m quite sure they wouldn’t share the same sentiment, considering, 4 lanes would jeopardize their street parking. Anyways, I’m not a fan of the street parking from Garnett st to Andrea LN but we will see what happens.

Thank you again for the in depth overview of a much needed project!

Best,

-----Original Message----- From: Sent: Thursday, June 11, 2020 10:20 AM To: Nathan Jerke Subject: [EXTERNAL] Highway 75 expansion Hi Nathan, One final question? What are the chances of moving up construction from 2025 to rather 2023 at the latest? As someone who was born and raised here, I’ve never seen the roads more congested then this summer and I live in Los Angeles as my primary residence! Its crazy! Also, I was reviewing all the comments on the ITD page and I’m glad to see most people agree with me in particular on the following: - Not having a roundabout at Serenade Ln is a MUST! - Keeping 4 lanes continuous into town from Serenade and onward. However, I do understand that if that was to happen there might not be enough room to implement the needed center turn land coming up the hill on River St? Please advise if that would be the case. Also, I’m sure it would require the street parking to be eliminated, which wouldn't keep me up at night. - Keeping a center / lefthand turn option to Mountain View gas station. This is a must and would be extremely dangerous not to have that option. Every local to and from work goes there at its definitely a place that generates a ton of traffic. Not even including the residents who live adjacent and need that left turn lane to make it in safely. ***I hope we do not add bridge artwork on the Trail Creek Bridge please!! Best,

mailto:[email protected]

Nathan Jerke Project Manager Idaho Department of Transportation 216 S. Date Street Shoshone, ID 83352

Re: Widening ofHwy 75 between Elkhorn Rd. and River Street, Ketchum

Dear Mr. Jerke,

I represent the . Trail Creek Condominium is located at 321 South Leadville Ave., Ketchum on the East side ofHwy 75 north of the bridge over Trail Creek and consists of 13 homes. At this location, Trail Creek runs parallel to the highway for a stretch and separates our condominium from the highway. The right of way in this area is within the riparian zone, which typically is protected from development within 25 feet of the high water.

There are a number of 12 to 15 year old evergreen trees, which lie partially within the right of way and within the riparian zone in this location. These trees provide valuable shade to Trail Creek and the aquatic life including possible spawning ground for trout. Some of the large cottonwood trees on our property will have to be removed, unfortunately, over the coming years due to their age and health.

The evergreen trees provide screening from vehicles, pedestrians and headlights to the windows of our condominium units. Vehicles leaving town are pointed almost directly toward our units before Main Street makes a turn to the South and becomes Highway 7 5. The highway at this location is quite busy and gets busier each year. The proposed hotel on the opposite side of the highway will also have an impact on our privacy and additional traffic. These trees are also important to us. I would add that the trees, Ketchum sign and flowers at this location provide an important aesthetic benefit to the city as you enter the more densely developed portion of downtown.

Kay Lynn BrownCross-Out

Kay Lynn Brown

Kay Lynn Brown

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