June 21, 2002

Boise State to Construct Turnout Lane

Construction will begin this summer on a series of improvements that will make bus transportation at Boise State University easier and safer.

With key support from Idaho’s congressional delegation, Boise State has received $247,000 from the Federal Transportation Administration to build a new bus turnout lane on University Drive and add 11 bus shelters on campus. The university is providing $62,000 in matching funds.

The improvements are designed to improve safety for bus riders, pedestrians and motorists as well as boost ridership on Boise State’s free shuttle service and the city bus system.

The turnout lane will ease traffic congestion on University Drive. Buses currently block a lane of traffic while they are picking up and unloading passengers at the popular stop in front of the Administration Building.

Cut into the existing curb, the 100-yard lane will accommodate three buses. The new bus shelters, which will hold up to 20 people, will protect riders from inclement weather and more clearly define the university’s shuttle stops.

The turnout lane is scheduled to be complete this fall and the bus shelters will be constructed during the 2002-03 academic year.

Boise State has continued to request federal funding for other public transportation related improvements, including a $500,000 request to assist in the development of a multi-modal transportation center on the Boise campus and transportation improvements on the new West Campus located in Nampa.

More information: Dean Gunderson, facilities planner, phone 426-4180