ITD Invites Community Feedback on US-95 Safety North of Sandpoint
On Jan. 22, 2026, the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) issued a news release inviting the public to weigh in on safety improvements along U.S. Highway 95 between Sandpoint and the Canadian border, one of Idaho’s busiest rural corridors. The 37‑mile section of two‑lane highway sees heavy freight traffic, local commuters, and tourism vehicles year‑round. Its narrow shoulders, limited passing opportunities and sharp curves make it challenging for motorists, especially when large trucks and recreational vehicles share the road. Accident rates are higher than statewide averages, and drivers often get stuck behind slow‑moving vehicles with no safe place to pass. ITD says the corridor’s condition has been a priority for years but funding and environmental constraints have delayed major upgrades.
To kick off a new study, ITD is holding an open house on Feb. 3 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Boundary County Middle School library. Department planners will present data on crashes, traffic volumes and wildlife collisions and offer maps showing potential improvements. Attendees can share experiences and suggest solutions. The department is also running an online survey through Feb. 20 for those who cannot attend in person. Comments can be submitted through an interactive map where drivers can pinpoint trouble spots and describe specific problems. After the comment period closes, ITD will develop a concept plan and seek funding in the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program. Project manager Amanda Warnock said public input is critical because residents know the corridor best and can highlight issues planners might miss.
Possible upgrades under consideration include adding passing lanes in key stretches, widening shoulders to give disabled vehicles room to pull over, flattening sharp curves and improving sight distance, realigning intersections, installing guard rails and wildlife fencing, and building turn lanes at busy access points. The department is also evaluating long‑term options like constructing a new four‑lane divided highway on a different alignment. ITD emphasizes that no decisions have been made yet; the study is intended to identify what is feasible and to prioritize projects based on cost and safety benefits. Implementation will depend on funding availability and environmental review.
In its release, ITD encourages anyone who travels U.S. 95 in Bonner and Boundary counties to participate. Truckers, commuters, emergency services, school districts and tourists all rely on the route, so improvements could have a broad economic impact. The department plans to report back later this year with preliminary recommendations and will continue to engage the public as concepts are refined. In the meantime, drivers are asked to use caution, obey speed limits and watch for wildlife along this scenic but challenging highway.