East Idaho Times

Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson announced the inclusion of $5,050,415 in funding for the G Canal BR, Cassia Co Project in Burley, Idaho. This allocation was secured through Community Project Funding (CPF) as part of the Fiscal Year 2025 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act.

“As the G Canal Project nears completion, securing the necessary funding to meet that goal is imperative,” said Rep. Simpson. “With Burley's ongoing growth and the current structure due for replacement, these critical funds will be used to upgrade infrastructure and accommodate future widening plans. This will ensure enhanced safety and efficiency, making it a much-needed improvement. I am pleased to partner with the Idaho Transportation Department and the City of Burley to make this project successful for our community.”

“This project is significant since it will improve and ensure that irrigation flows continue to agriculture outlets which are the backbone of Idaho. The project is also important to motorists who travel this area because the intersection will see new pavement, curb and gutter and a new traffic signal,” said Kandace Stewart, Idaho Transportation Department Resident Engineer.

The funding will be utilized to replace the culvert and signal over the G Canal at State Highway 27 and 27th Street in Burley. The G Canal, constructed in the 1930s, runs underneath this intersection. The culvert was extended in both the 1960s and 1980s but now requires replacement. The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) plans to replace the signal and widen 27th Street at this intersection for future expansion. The new signal will feature flashing yellow arrows for permissive left turns instead of a solid green light. Additionally, raising the grade at this intersection aims to prevent vehicles from bottoming out when passing through. A new curb and gutter system will also be installed to aid drainage.

Despite criticisms labeling CPF projects as "wasteful earmarks," proponents argue that Community Project Funding allows Members of Congress like Rep. Simpson to allocate Idaho tax dollars towards local priorities with broad community support within existing budget limits.

As Idaho’s sole appropriator, Rep. Simpson has emphasized his role in advocating for state priorities and ensuring federal funds return to benefit Idahoans.

The G Canal BR, Cassia Co Project forms part of the Fiscal Year 2025 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act recently approved by the House Appropriations Committee.