LHTAC is in the fourth year of Innovation Awards, and continues to be impressed with the ability of Idaho’s Local Highway Jurisdictions (LHJs) to pioneer solutions to problems and inefficiencies, faced within their everyday operations.

Adams County Road and Bridge Dept.

Cattle Guard By-Pass Gates

Farmers driving large agricultural equipment and Road and Bridge employees plowing snow both struggled to stay within the confines of popular cattle guards within the County. The 12 foot width of the guards and surrounding fencing made it difficult for anything larger than a passenger vehicle to pass through without damaging the gate posts. 4×4 posts at the edge of the existing fence line were sleeved at the location of the cattle guard. These posts are easily removed and relocated, and then replaced for passage of large equipment.

Camas County

Grader Blade Mobile

Removing and replacing heavy grader blades was a 3-4 person job, as well as a lifting hazard. A cart was fabricated that not only transports the grader blade, but also lifts it into place for bolting.

Power County Highway District

Bridge Marker Sign Brackets

Large equipment consistently damaged and destroyed the Highway Districts Bridge markers. The HD fabricated brackets equipped with a spring that flex when hit while being stout enough to hold position in the wind.

2018 Innovation Idea Winners Announced (PDF)