Long-term closure and detour for SH-54 through Farragut State Park

BAYVIEW - Starting Wednesday, Feb. 18, a section of State Highway 54 in Farragut State Park will close as construction begins on a major intersection improvement project at Brig Road. The closure will span from east of Farragut's North Road to near the top of the hill approaching Bayview and is expected to remain in place until July.

The project supports the park's long-planned vision for its central entrance and is funded by the Idaho Transportation Department. The project includes a redesigned intersection with dedicated right- and left-turn lanes, as well as a pedestrian underpass.

The new turn lanes will allow through traffic to flow continuously while providing safe refuge for larger turning vehicles such as RVs and trucks pulling trailers. These improvements will reduce congestion and enhance safety, while allowing hikers and bikers to safely travel between the north and south sides of the park without crossing the busy highway.

During construction, drivers traveling between Farragut State Park and Bayview will follow a signed detour using the traffic circle to access Perimeter Road and then Bayview Road. The detour adds less than five minutes of additional travel time, and motorists are encouraged to plan accordingly for their commutes. (Detour route map)

Drivers of oversized or overweight vehicles should be aware that when spring load limits are in effect on county roads, including Perimeter and Bayview Roads, they will be allowed restricted access to Farragut's North Road to reconnect with SH-54. This restricted access will be available only to vehicles impacted by load limits during the spring thaw when roads are more vulnerable to damage and will not be open to general traffic.

Despite the closure, Farragut State Park will remain fully open and accessible throughout construction. Visitors will continue to have access to popular destinations when seasonally available, including the visitor center, boat launch, Beaver Bay swimming area, campgrounds, Brig Museum, and day-use areas. As traffic volumes increase during the spring and summer recreation season, drivers are encouraged to plan ahead using the detour routes.

Visitors should also expect temporary road closures and changing traffic patterns within the park as construction progresses.

Once complete, the project will significantly improve traffic flow and safety through the park for both drivers and recreators. In the future, existing access points connecting to SH-54 will transition to right-turn-only exits, reducing left-turn movements where no turn lanes exist. This will enhance safety for drivers, particularly those towing boats, campers, and trailers.

Anyone with questions about construction activities, traffic impacts, or park access is encouraged to contact Farragut State Park at (208) 683-2425 or by email at [email protected]. Information about park updates and improvements can be found on the department's website.

Drivers are reminded to use Idaho 511 for travel impacts and road conditions. Always slow down in work zones, follow posted signage, and allow extra time when traveling through the area.