New York invests in future-ready infrastructure as I-90 bridge replacement in Herkimer County begins, promising safer intersections, better lighting, and new sidewalks

Herkimer County, New York – In a significant step towards upgrading the state’s aging infrastructure, Governor Kathy Hochul has initiated a $20.5 million project to replace the Interstate 90 bridge over Mohawk Street in Herkimer County. The bridge, a critical component of the Thruway system located just west of Exit 30, has been serving approximately 24,000 vehicles daily since its construction. This initiative marks a key effort in enhancing safety and reliability for the thousands who travel this route each day.

“We’re investing in aging infrastructure in Herkimer County and beyond, making it safer, more resilient and more reliable,” Governor Hochul said. “This project will ensure a seamless travel experience for the more than 24,000 daily drivers, and stand as a reliable part of our transportation network for years to come.”

The replacement involves a major structural change from a two-span to a single-span bridge. This adjustment will eliminate a pier on Mohawk Street, facilitating the creation of a full turning lane and improving safety and sight distance at the adjacent intersections. Reflective line striping and a reorganized lane pattern on Mohawk Street are also planned to enhance navigational clarity for motorists.

The execution of the bridge replacement is divided into two stages to minimize disruption. The first stage will see all traffic on I-90 temporarily shifted to the westbound side while renovations are made to the eastbound section. The traffic pattern will revert in the fall of 2025, resuming the final phase in spring 2026 with shifts to the newly constructed eastbound side as the westbound side undergoes renovation.

Additional safety measures include the installation of enhanced lighting under the bridge to improve visibility for both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. The project also incorporates a new pedestrian sidewalk on both sides of Mohawk Street, along with updated safety barriers and snow fences on I-90. Improved stormwater management facilities are also a key aspect of the project, aimed at enhancing environmental sustainability and roadway safety.

Throughout the construction period, Mohawk Street will remain open, with various traffic patterns and temporary signals installed to ensure pedestrian safety and smooth traffic flow. Slate Hill Constructors, Inc., based in Warners, New York, has been selected as the contractor after a competitive bidding process, with completion slated for fall 2026.

In line with her commitment to safety, Governor Hochul has also implemented the Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement pilot program, which started in April 2023. This program aims to enhance safety in construction zones through speed camera enforcement, which will be clearly indicated by signage at active sites.

For real-time travel updates, the Thruway Authority encourages motorists to use their mobile app and interactive Traveler Map, which offers live traffic camera feeds and navigation tools. Additionally, motorists can subscribe to TRANSalert emails for the latest on traffic conditions along the Thruway.

This infrastructure overhaul is part of a broader initiative by the Thruway Authority, which operates without dedicated federal, state, or local tax dollars and is primarily funded by tolls collected from its users, including a significant proportion of out-of-state drivers. The project not only underscores New York’s commitment to maintaining and enhancing its transportation infrastructure but also ensures the safety and efficiency of one of the nation’s oldest major toll roads.