ITD I-86 & I-15 System Interchange Reconstruction

Project Overview

Known as the “Flying Y,” the ITD I-86 and I-15 System Interchange in Pocatello, ID was built in the mid-1960s. Now, with increased through traffic causing more congestion, the city is ready for an upgrade. The project will improve operations, safety and mobility between I-86 and I-15 and will prepare the city for the future expansion of I-15.

The project includes the construction of eight new bridges: six of those bridges will be within the I-15 and I-86 interchange, and two will be at I-15 and Chubbuck Road. Additionally, parts of the existing I-15 northbound will become new collector-distributor lanes; this will relieve congestion as drivers travel north toward Chubbuck from the Pocatello Creek on-ramp. The project also calls for 10 retaining walls, one million cubic yards of earthwork excavation, several ramps, and highway realignments.

Construction will also include a significant change for Chubbuck Road. Currently, the road passes over I-15 and has limited accommodation for bicyclists and pedestrians traveling toward the Portneuf Wellness Complex. The new design transforms Chubbuck Road into an underpass with a 1.3-mile pedestrian and bike path to the east side of the I-15 between Pocatello Creek Road interchange and the Fairgrounds; this will allow traveling pedestrians easier access to the Portneuf Wellness Complex.