By MEGAN THOMAS
and REBECCA MEANY
Express Staff Writers
The Sun Valley City Council will consider two separate resolutions this week regarding the Idaho Transportation Department's proposed changes to state Highway 75, an item discussed and approved by the city of Ketchum on Monday.
Discussion of the matter begins in Sun Valley during a special City Council work session today, Feb. 15, with action to be taken Thursday, Feb. 16, during the city's regular meeting.
At the meetings, the council will consider a resolution to approve a joint letter to be submitted with the city of Ketchum on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the plan to widen and improve Highway 75 through the Wood River Valley.
Ketchum City Council members at a special meeting Monday, Feb. 13, discussed using stronger language in the cities' letter to emphasize support for multi-modal transportation options.
"I think ITD is building lanes, the more the merrier," said Ketchum Councilwoman Terry Tracy. "They're not into alternate modes of transportation. We're so afraid we're going to offend somebody, we hold back."
Tracy also said she wished for more public involvement opportunities.
"I was very disappointed in the process so far," she said. "I didn't feel the public had a chance to give input. I have so many concerns, not just as a City Council person, but as a resident."
Beth Callister, Ketchum city planner, said that after the current planning phase, there will be additional chances for input on other aspects of the project.
The cities of Ketchum and Sun Valley identified specific plans and design elements relevant to the cities' transit planning and land-use plans.
Comments specific to the municipalities include planning and design elements from Elkhorn Road in Sun Valley to Saddle Road in Ketchum, additional public involvement and support for "Alternative 3."
If approved, that alternative would expand Highway 75 through the Wood River Valley into a four-lane highway with high-occupancy-vehicle lanes employed during the peak hours of commuter traffic.
The Sun Valley City Council will also consider action on a multi-jurisdictional comment letter concerning the highway project, approved by the Ketchum City Council Monday.
The cities of Sun Valley, Carey, Bellevue, Hailey and Ketchum and Blaine County presented a public comment letter to ITD and the Federal Highway Administration in late January.
The drafted letter states that jurisdictions did not change their positions, but rather wish to restate the common concerns, goals and recommendations.
