Gov. Kathy Hochul has unveiled the opening of the revamped Interstate 481 off-ramp to Exit 3 in DeWitt, a significant phase in the ongoing Interstate 81 Viaduct Project, aimed at overhauling the region's transport framework. As reported by the Governor’s Office, the improved ramp is designed to streamline traffic flows and bolster safety for the daily stream of vehicles frequenting this nexus.
Despite disruptions caused by construction, this project is erecting new infrastructure seeking to remove an aged viaduct and to conjure up a future of improved transit in Central New York. According to Gov. Hochul’s statement, obtained by the Governor’s Office, “The redesigned Exit 3 is the latest improvement of many that are in store for Central New York residents and visitors as we work to complete this historic project and transform the region’s transportation network for the better.”
The Department of Transportation is spearheading this adjustment, integrating existing exits into one and adding dedicated turn lanes to optimize the connection to State Routes 5 and 92. Commuters will navigate a new off-ramp that expands from two lanes to four at the signalized intersection, aiming to reduce vehicular jostling and abrupt lane changes.
Improvements, as part of the broader revamp, the Interstate 481 northbound on-ramp from State Routes 5 and 92 westbound will be extended to Kinne Road, affording drivers more time to integrate into the flow of the future mainline I-81. Assemblymember William Magnarelli, during an interview, underscored the benefits, mentioning, “While the construction is a temporary inconvenience for local drivers, the finished projects create a more efficient and safer system for all,” as reported by the Governor’s Office.
Amidst this transformation, the I-81 Viaduct Project also champions the Community Grid initiative, an endeavor to rectify the disruptive legacy of the 1950s viaduct that sundered Syracuse. This plan includes not just vehicular, but pedestrian and bicyclist considerations, ensuring ADA-compliant accessibility throughout the project area.
Governor Hochul’s administration has outlined a $34.3 billion, five-year NYSDOT Capital Plan, funded by federal and state resources. The plan includes infrastructure improvements and aims to update transportation systems. Central New Yorkers can also use the I-81 Connect mobile app, which provides real-time updates on the project and keeps residents informed.
