The City of Idaho Falls reopened a major junction on 5th East and 49th South after closing it for more than two months to complete safety upgrades.
Officials installed a new traffic signal at the corner, which also carries the names Holmes Avenue and Township Road. The project added designated left-turn lanes, sidewalks, and pedestrian ramps that meet Americans with Disabilities Act standards.
The improvements follow a history of serious accidents in the area. Between 2018 and 2023, police recorded 17 crashes near the intersection. One of those collisions resulted in multiple fatalities.
The city prioritized the signal installation to reduce future collision risks at this busy East Idaho crossing. Drivers can now use the updated lanes and crosswalks as construction barriers are removed.