Scrub seal treatments to preserve highways throughout eastern Idaho will begin today, according to the Idaho Transportation Department.
Roadwork will affect several nearby routes, including State Highway 33 between Newdale and Sugar City, U.S. Highway 20 at the Sugar City Half Interchange, and U.S. Highway 20 south of St. Anthony.
The transportation department said crews will work Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., with some Saturday work scheduled. Construction is taking place during the hottest part of the day to allow materials to properly set.
All work and traffic control will be suspended July 3-5 for the Independence Day holiday. Nighttime brooming operations will continue during that period.
Drivers should expect temporary lane reductions in work zones, with two-lane highways reduced to one lane. Flaggers and pilot cars will direct traffic through construction areas.
The department said these routes experience heavy recreational traffic during the summer. Work is expected to be completed by mid- to late August.
Unlike a traditional chip seal, the scrub seal process uses oil that is broomed into the roadway before fine crushed gravel is applied. Mark Hayes, manager of materials and engineering for the Idaho Transportation Department, said the treatment is essential for improving the long-term performance of roadways.
The treatment was tested on roads in western Idaho in 2024 and proved successful. According to the department, after two years there have been no reported damage claims related to the treatment.
For updates on work locations and traffic impacts, motorists can use the Idaho 511 app or visit the Idaho 511 website.