FAQs
- Gathering traffic and crash data.
- Surveying and gathering technical information.
- Developing design plans to widen and improve the roadway.
- Gathering input from agencies, stakeholders and community members.
- Conducting an environmental evaluation.
- Purchasing right-of-way
- Widening Star Road to five lanes
- Adding a multi-use pathway on both sides of Star Road
- Replacing bridges over several canals and irrigation crossings
- Replacing and widening the Boise River Bridge
- Making preparations for a future traffic signal at Joplin Road
- Installing a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB) between Main Street and Hercules Drive
- Installing utilities for future corridor lighting
- Phase 1: Main Street to State Street plus the Phyllis Canal and Slough - Expected to begin construction in 2029.
- Phase 2: Chinden Blvd to Main Street - Expected to begin construction in 2030 or 2031.
- City of Star and Ada County
- School districts and businesses
- Developers and HOAs
- Irrigation districts and utility agencies
- Surrounding communities, the public, and roadway users
What will this project include?
The Ada County Highway District is developing plans to widen Star Road between State Street and Chinden Blvd. The design process will include:
Why is this project needed?
Due to the growing population of the surrounding areas, improvements are needed on Star Road between State Street and Chinden Boulevard. The widening of Star Road will increase capacity and mobility for motorists and provide an improved route to and from the City of Star. The new multi-use pathways will also provide safer accommodations for pedestrians in the area and near the Boise River.
What information will the team gather throughout this project?
ACHD will gather technical and environmental information throughout the project. Technical information will include a survey of the project area, hydraulic, stormwater and irrigation information, geotechnical investigation, bridge and roadway analysis, and traffic and crash data. In addition, the environmental analysis will include studies on wetlands, wildlife, aquatic resources, threatened and endangered species, and cultural resources.
Will this project use federal funds?
ACHD does not anticipate using federal funds for this project. Funding to design this project comes from a combination of ACHD general funds and impact fees. Impact fees are paid by developers and help local agencies account for growth.
What improvements are being evaluated?
ACHD is proposing the following improvements:
Will pedestrian improvements be made?
As part of this project, ACHD is proposing improvements that will benefit motorists and pedestrians. Proposed pedestrian infrastructure includes adding 10-ft multi-use pathways on both sides of Star Road and installing a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB) between Main Street and Hercules Drive.
Will this project require right-of-way acquisition?
Yes, ACHD will be purchasing right-of-way in order to widen Star Road to five lanes and add multi-use pathways. ACHD will meet with property owners adjacent to Star Road in Spring/Summer 2026 to establish a line of communication and let them know about potential property impacts. Discussions of property acquisition are expected to occur in 2028, after the design of the project is completed.
When will improvements be constructed?
ACHD will be constructing the project in two phases:
Will the bridge over the Boise River be replaced?
Yes, construction of the bridge over the Boise River will occur in Phase 2, expected to begin in 2030 or 2031. The existing Boise River Bridge, constructed in 1984, only accommodates two lanes of traffic and lacks pedestrian and bicycle facilities. Once the bridge is replaced, it will be four lanes wide and include 13-ft multi-use pathways on both sides. A 4.5-ft shoulder and barrier will separate the pathway form the roadway.
Who is ACHD working with during this project?
ACHD is coordinating with several agencies and stakeholders throughout the project, including:
ACHD will communicate with the community through a variety of channels and host events for the public and stakeholders to provide input. A public meeting for community members to learn about the project and give input will occur on August 28, 2026. A second public meeting to share updated plans will occur in early 2027.