[UPDATE: Second NYSDOT Public Information Session will be held on February 13th, 5 – 6:30PM at the Library. See details below]
The State Street bridge is getting a makeover in 2021. Those of you that traverse it regularly know it needs some serious love.
For you bridge construction nerds, here’s the NYSDOT description about the existing structure: “Single span warren through truss with vertical members built in 1973.”
And while traversing that sidewalk, our own aging vertical members feel the potholes and crumbling concrete. [Experience for yourself via Brooke’s video below.]
So good news! The bridge is getting a much-needed upgrade in 2021.
The proposed work includes replacement of the structural steel floor, bridge bearings, concrete bridge deck, approach slabs and sidewalks. It’s a big task.
NYSDOT will have detours to help eastbound and westbound drivers navigate construction during that time. The Erie Canal trail under the bridge is expected to remain open during most of the construction.
There is no good time to close a bridge that gets traversed by 18K vehicles per day. NYSDOT is doing its best to pick the least disruptive time, trying to get it mostly done in the summer when there is less disruption to the school bus routes. The bridge is expected to be closed March – Labor Day 2021.
There was a public open house on the project on December 17th. Many people requested another session in the evening, so NYSDOT will be hosting another information session on Thursday, February 13 from 5-6:30 PM at the Library. It will be the exact same format with the same materials as the previous session.
BUT WAIT… THERE’S MORE
Like at the December meeting, NYSDOT will also be providing information on some proposed pedestrian improvements in the Village that could begin in 2020. The DOT team is reviewing the Active Transportation Plan, the Village’s Pedestrian Improvement Plan and the public’s feedback for consideration on priority areas. We don’t yet have full details on the areas targeted for improvement, but it could likely include trouble-spots on S. Main St., N. Main St., and in front of the library. We will update you as soon as we have more complete details.
NYSDOT brought all sorts of good stuff to the last meeting and asked attendees to mark-up maps to indicate places for improvements. They brought a team of people to answer question and listen to concerns.
Come to the open house, if you weren’t able to attend the first one (or even if you were)! Your feedback is really important!
