Construction began in May 2011 on the Alameda-Hawthorne-Garrett Way-S Main Ext intersection. Michelsen Construction is the general contractor. The State is providing construction inspection services. Work includes the installation of a signal and left turn lanes, and elimination of one free-flowing right turn lane. Construction will be complete this summer.

The existing intersection of U.S. 30/Hawthorne Road/Main Street currently operates under a traffic signal control system while Alameda Road is controlled by a stop sign. The Alameda leg is significantly impacted by the operations at the signalized intersection. At times the Level of Service (LOS) is rated “F” which means that average travel speeds are about 30% of free-flowing speeds and is characterized by gridlock and high delays. This situation will only worsen as the traffic volume increases.

A 2008 study performed by CH2MHill, the City's engineering consultant for this federal aid project, determined that a tri-signal is the preferred alternative at ultimate design with the option of constructing a coordinated signal at the Alameda/Hawthorne leg as an interim solution. The coordinated signal system will improve traffic flow at Alameda/Hawthorne to LOS B, which is characterized by reasonably unimpeded operations at average travel speeds.

With the current traffic volume, only the interim improvements are warranted at this time. Staff anticipates that the ultimate improvements will not be constructed until sometime after 2025.

Please contact Deirdre Castillo, P.E., City Engineer, at (208) 234-6587 with any questions.