Onondaga County will receive a $7.5 million infrastructure upgrade with the start of a bridge replacement project announced by Governor Kathy Hochul. The project will replace the Townline Road bridge over I-90, a key route carrying about 12,400 vehicles daily. Built in the 1950s, the current bridge no longer meets current transportation needs, leading to the development of a modern replacement designed to support the region’s future transportation requirements, as reported by the Governor's office.
“As construction season begins, New York is investing in infrastructure projects to replace and rehabilitate bridges on our roadways which will enhance safety for motorists for decades to come," Governor Hochul said according to a press release. The project will feature modern architecture, along with increased clearances to prevent bridge strikes from overheight vehicles. It includes the addition of a pedestrian sidewalk, new drainage structures on Townline Road, full-depth pavement reconstruction of the approaches over I-90, and shoulder reconstruction beneath the bridge.
The economic ramifications of the project are evident, as highlighted by State Senator Christopher J. Ryan. "This bridge replacement will enhance safety, reduce bridge strikes, and improve traffic flow,” he told the Governor's office. He added that the initiative would "create jobs, strengthen our local economy, and ensure a more reliable transportation network for years to come." Assemblymember Pam Hunter shared a similar view, emphasizing the project's importance for community safety and the ongoing flow of goods and people.
The bridge closure will begin next Monday, with a designated 3.8-mile detour to redirect traffic. Designed to keep motorists safe and informed, the detour entails closing the south side of Townline Road at Factory Avenue, redirecting eastbound traffic on Factory Avenue south to Military Circle, and westbound traffic on Townline Road west on Factory Avenue. Meanwhile, northbound and southbound traffic on the north side will be rerouted east on East Molloy Road. Eastbound and westbound traffic on East Molloy Road will not be affected by the detour.
The construction will be managed by Herkimer’s Tioga Construction Company, Inc., which was awarded the contract through competitive bidding. The project is expected to be completed by Fall 2025, with the timeline dependent on weather conditions. To enhance safety, Governor Hochul introduced the Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement pilot program in April 2023, targeting construction zones on the Thruway. The program includes clear signage and speed cameras, with fines aimed at discouraging drivers from speeding in these areas.
The Governor Thomas E. Dewey Thruway reflects the development of American infrastructure. Tolls primarily fund maintenance activities, with notable investments planned in the 2025 Budget for the repair and improvement of bridges and pavements. The Thruway Authority’s efforts have contributed to the Thruway’s reputation for safety, with fatality rates lower than national averages, while its toll rates are a point of comparison for drivers considering costs on similar routes across the country.
For those traversing the Thruway, the Thruway Authority's mobile app and the interactive Traveler Map provide real-time traffic data. Further, one can subscribe to TRANSalert e-mails for the latest travel conditions.
