Aging bridge over I-90 to be replaced with higher-clearance structure as New York ramps up efforts to prevent vehicle strikes and enhance worker safety

Onondaga County, New York – Governor Kathy Hochul has launched a significant infrastructure initiative with the commencement of a $7.5 million bridge replacement project in Onondaga County, New York. The project aims to replace the aging Townline Road bridge that spans over Interstate 90, primarily at milepost 280.31, straddling the towns of DeWitt and Salina. Constructed in 1953, this bridge facilitates the movement of approximately 12,400 vehicles each day.

With the onset of the construction season, Governor Hochul emphasized the state’s commitment to enhancing roadway safety and connectivity through substantial infrastructure investments.

“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. “This bridge replacement project in Central New York will improve travel and connectivity in the community and strengthen our transportation network.”

The project, managed by the New York State Thruway Authority, will replace the old structure with a modern bridge that features increased vertical clearances. This enhancement aims to address the issue of bridge strikes by overheight vehicles, thereby improving safety for both Thruway Authority employees and motorists. The new bridge will provide a clearance of 16 feet seven inches on the eastbound lanes and 17 feet three inches on the westbound lanes, a significant increase from the current clearances.

Frank G. Hoare, Executive Director of the Thruway Authority, highlighted the broader scope of the authority’s capital program.

“The Thruway Authority is committed to investing in its aging infrastructure and enhancing the safety and reliability of the Thruway system. Our Capital Program is focused on modernizing our transportation system and maintaining some of the lowest and most affordable toll rates in the nation,” said Hoare.

The replacement project also includes comprehensive safety upgrades such as full-depth pavement reconstruction of the approaches on Townline Road, shoulder reconstruction of I-90 under the bridge, new safety guiderails, and the installation of a snow fence and several drainage structures to mitigate the impact of adverse weather conditions.

To accommodate the construction, Townline Road bridge will be closed to traffic starting March 31, for the duration of the project. A detailed detour plan has been put in place, guiding traffic through alternate routes to minimize inconvenience. Motorists traveling through the area are advised to expect possible slowdowns and to adhere to the posted work zone speed limits, where fines are doubled for speeding.

The project, expected to conclude in Fall 2025, is being undertaken by Tioga Construction Company, Inc., of Herkimer, New York, chosen through a competitive bidding process. Governor Hochul also underscored her commitment to worker safety by signing legislation for the Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement pilot program, enhancing enforcement in active construction zones on the Thruway.

For real-time traffic updates and navigation assistance during the construction period, motorists can download the Thruway Authority’s mobile app or visit their interactive Traveler Map online. These tools provide live traffic camera feeds and timely traffic condition alerts, ensuring that travelers can plan their routes effectively.