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continuing the momentum
— ABOUT THE PROJECT—
I-90 Exit 63 Interchange & Corridor Improvements: Exits 61-67
The I-90 Exit 63 Interchange Improvements Project is part of a larger effort to enhance safety, mobility, and connectivity along a six-mile stretch of Interstate 90—from Exit 61 to Exit 67. These improvements will address critical infrastructure needs, bring the corridor into compliance with federal standards, and support long-term growth and development in Box Elder and the surrounding region. This high-profile project is more than just an interchange. It includes capacity and safety improvements along I-90, modernization of existing infrastructure, and a federally required Environmental Assessment (EA) to evaluate and minimize environmental impacts.
Why This Project Matters:
Safety & Mobility: The corridor is part of a high-growth area and a key connection for local, regional, and military traffic. The improvements will reduce congestion, improve traffic operations, and address known safety concerns.
Interchange Compliance: The existing partial interchange at Exit 63 does not provide full access to and from I-90 in both directions, which does not meet current FHWA policy. The project will construct a full interchange.
Environmental Responsibility: The project includes a formal Environmental Assessment to identify potential impacts and develop strategies to avoid, minimize, or mitigate harm to surrounding environmental and community resources.
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT (EA)
Protecting Resources, Planning Responsibly: The Environmental Assessment (EA) is a key part of the project development process. Required under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), it evaluates how the proposed improvements might impact the surrounding human and natural environment. The EA identifies potential environmental effects, outlines ways to avoid or minimize them, and helps guide project decisions. The EA covers the full I-90 corridor from Exit 61 to Exit 67, plus adjacent areas that may be affected. It considers important resources such as wetlands, waterways, wildlife, and cultural features. It also includes the project’s Purpose and Need—clearly defining the transportation problems this project aims to solve and how the solutions will improve safety, access, and capacity.
INTERCHANGE AT EXIT 63
A Safer, Smarter Gateway: The existing Exit 63 interchange only allows limited access to I-90—drivers can’t get on or off the interstate in all directions. To meet current federal standards and improve mobility, the new interchange will be reconstructed as a Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI). This innovative design improves safety and efficiency by reducing conflict points and allowing smoother turns onto and off the highway. Similar interchanges in Sioux Falls and Rapid City have seen significant crash reductions. The new DDI will provide full access to and from I-90 in both directions and improve connections for West Gate Road and nearby neighborhoods.
MAINLINE ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS (EXITS 61-67)
Building for the Future: The project also includes critical upgrades to the I-90 mainline between Exit 61 and Exit 67. Improvements will address pavement deficiencies, update bridge structures, correct geometric issues, and prepare the roadway for long-term traffic growth. The upgrades include grading for future lanes, widened shoulders, safety enhancements such as median cable barriers and improved clear zones, and overall improvements to roadway performance. These enhancements will ensure I-90 remains safe, reliable, and efficient for all users—from freight and commuters to tourists and emergency services.
