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Board backs sending letter supporting Viking Avenue connection to bypass alternatives
Summary
The board agreed to send a non‑binding letter expressing interest in connecting Viking Avenue to one of four Highway 44 bypass alternatives. Staff emphasized the letter does not commit district land or funding and that details (property acquisition, canal work, ADA ramps) would be negotiated later.
District staff briefed trustees on four alternative bypass options for Highway 44 and presented a concept to extend Viking Avenue across the district property to provide a second access point for school drop‑offs and alleviate congestion.
Staff described technical considerations—ties across a canal or ditch (which could require capping), potential property purchases by the Idaho Transportation Department, and minor adjustments to Middleton Academy property in some alternatives. Trustees said a letter of support would indicate the district’s willingness to talk through options without committing to land sales or immediate financial participation.
A board member recommended a letter of support so the district’s interest is on the record while final alignment and right‑of‑way decisions are made by ITD and the city. The motion to approve sending a letter of support passed by voice vote.
Why it matters: Connecting Viking Avenue could relieve congestion at existing school access points and influence how bypass alternatives are designed near district property, but it does not obligate the district to sell land or fund construction.
What’s next: Staff will draft the letter of interest and coordinate with the city and ITD as the bypass alternatives are refined; any decision involving land use or funding would return to the board for formal action.
