Westchester County drivers can anticipate smoother travels in the near future, as Governor Kathy Hochul has kicked off an extensive $86.7 million upgrade for the New England Thruway (I-95). According to a recent announcement from the Governor's office, this project involves both pavement improvements over a nearly five-mile stretch and the rehabilitation of 12 bridges in a heavily frequented corridor, supporting about 120,000 vehicles daily.
"The New England Thruway is one of the busiest highways in Westchester County and this project will ensure that it remains safe and dependable for years to come," Hochul stated, as noted by the Governor's office. This modernization aims to enhance critical safety features on I-95, enabling a better driving experience for the multitude that depends on this route. Paving operations and the bulk of the work is designed to occur overnight, lessening the potential inconvenience to commuters.
The New York State Thruway Authority has a history of investing in I-95 improvements, and Executive Director Frank G. Hoare emphasized the necessity of upgrading this “critical artery” for both local communities and travelers. The project includes concrete pavement repairs, the application of a two-course asphalt overlay for a smoother ride, and the refurbishment of interchange ramps. According to the Governor's announcement, bridge work will span various locations, such as the Centre Avenue bridge in New Rochelle and those spanning Metro-North Railroad’s Larchmont station.
State officials, including Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and State Senator Shelley B. Mayer, have lauded the significant investment. “This $86.7 million investment in the New England Thruway is part of the historic momentum we’ve built through the CHIPS program and other transformative infrastructure initiatives across New York State. Rehabilitating these bridges and improving pavement along I-95 will enhance safety, ease travel, and support our local economy. I’d like to thank Governor Hochul for supporting these long-overdue upgrades as we continue delivering real results for Westchester County and the infrastructure our communities rely on every day,” Stewart-Cousins told the Governor's office.
Funding for the project comes at a time when the Thruway Authority plans to inject a total of $477.3 million into capital projects starting in 2025, an uptick of over $33 million relative to the 2024 numbers. The Thruway, one of the nation’s longest toll roads and a key part of the National Interstate Highway System, continues to be maintained by toll revenues rather than dedicated tax dollars. The Authority's 2025 budget proposes to address about 61 percent of the Thruway's pavement lane miles and up to 20 percent of its bridges.
As the Thruway's safety remains a paramount concern, motorists are reminded to exercise caution in construction zones, observe the expanded Move Over Law from March 2024, and watch for roadway workers.
