BOISE, Idaho (Aug. 14, 2025)— Travelers along Idaho’s roads and scenic byways will soon see the first of the new Idaho Historic Highway Markers. These refreshed signs combine storytelling with modern technology, offering visitors a more immersive experience and a stronger connection to the communities they pass through. 

The initiative combines two projects across three state agencies. The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) and Idaho State Historical Society (ISHS) are partnering to update all highway markers with new historical research and signage. In tandem with these efforts, Visit Idaho is developing QR codes to be installed at each marker location, connecting travelers to an app that offers additional content about the site and nearby activities and amenities. The app will also translate to nine other languages. The digital component is funded in part by a $3.2 million federal economic development grant awarded to ITD in 2022.

The goal is to restore the historic markers to spark curiosity about the state’s expansive history and drive interaction with the app to encourage exploration of Idaho’s rural communities, helping increase overnight stays and drive economic impact across Idaho.

“This project aligns perfectly with many of the initiatives Visit Idaho is focused on. Idaho’s diverse and often rural landscape is filled with communities that we know travelers will enjoy once they go beyond the destinations they already know. We’re excited to incorporate the QR codes as an easy, accessible tool to help travelers find more to explore in our beautiful state,” said Natalie Jushinski, tourism manager at Visit Idaho.

Each of the three state agencies plays a distinct role in this multi-year project:

• ITD owns and maintains the physical markers and is managing the installation and updated marker designs, which now feature state symbols like the mountain bluebird and the syringa.
• Visit Idaho, a division of the Idaho Department of Commerce, is developing the QR codes and web-based app connecting travelers to information to explore more in the area.
• ISHS is responsible for the historical content for the markers, and their historians are updating the text on each marker to amplify understanding of the significance of each site.

The project not only enhances the travel experience but also supports rural tourism and local economies by encouraging deeper exploration. The revitalized markers and digital information provide new opportunities for education, storytelling and visitor engagement for all travelers—both residents and visitors.

“We are grateful to be a part of the Historical Highway Marker program, which continues to create a powerful sense of place for Idahoans. These markers share the stories that make the Gem State truly unique — stories that have been updated and thoroughly researched at a local level, deepening our understanding of Idaho’s vibrant history,” said Janet Gallimore, executive director at ISHS. “They remind us of where we’ve been, connect us to one another, and strengthen the sense of community that defines our state.”

All updated markers and QR codes in ITD’s District 1 in northern Idaho are expected to be installed by the end of 2025, with no impact on traffic. The remaining markers and QR codes will be installed in phases by district through 2027.

“We are excited to partner with others to ensure that these roadside displays reflect the beauty and rich history of Idaho,” said Mike Johnson, the division administrator for engineering services at ITD.

About Visit Idaho
Visit Idaho serves to inspire travelers to visit and experience Idaho’s diverse, unique beauty, western culture and history and outdoor adventure opportunities through engaging, helpful tips, information and resources. Tourism is Idaho’s third-largest industry, and Idaho Tourism is committed to growing Idaho’s economy through targeted, impactful promotions. Go to visitidaho.org to plan your vacation. Learn more about Idaho’s tourism industry at industry.visitidaho.org. ###

Contact: Sophia Hartsock

Red Sky

208-863-2499

sophiahartsock@redskypr.com