Assessment to determine extent of road damage from Wapiti Fire complete

9/11/2024

Sophia Miraglio
ITD Communication
208-994-2298
[email protected]

Assessment to determine extent of road damage from Wapiti Fire complete

LOWMAN - State Highway 21 remains closed as the Wapiti Fire continues to burn between Lowman and Stanley. Despite ongoing fire activity, the Idaho Transportation Department has completed a damage assessment of the area.

Emergency contracts have been established, and repair efforts are actively underway. Crews are currently removing hazard trees along the highway, and assessments indicate that approximately 49 road signs and several miles of guardrail will need to be replaced in Boise County. The guardrail is crucial, given the steep slopes along this mountainous highway.

"We are taking a proactive approach to this situation, and as long as it is safe to do so, we will continue our work in the area. Completing the damage assessment was a critical first step, allowing us to secure the necessary resources and determine what needs to be done to safely reopen the highway when the time comes," Field Operations Manager Eric Copeland said.

Throughout the duration of this fire, ITD crews will continue to conduct twice-daily patrols using loaders to clear burnt trees, rocks, and debris from the highway, ensuring that fire crews and emergency responders can safely access the affected areas.

To date, the Wapiti Fire has burned more than 120,000 acres and is currently 12% contained. As multiple fires continue to impact Southwest Idaho, ITD encourages travelers to check road conditions at 511.idaho.govbefore planning their journeys.

To download footage from behind the SH-21 closure: https://we.tl/t-koao63CgBs

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