Rockland County’s critical I-87/I-287 corridor set for major upgrades as New York State invests in two bridge overhauls with structural repairs, new decks, and improved safety features

New York – In a significant development for Rockland County’s infrastructure, Governor Kathy Hochul has kicked off a $19.4 million project aimed at rehabilitating two critical bridges on the New York State Thruway (I-87/I-287) in the village of Suffern. This initiative marks a proactive step in enhancing the safety and reliability of a major transport artery that supports a daily traffic volume of around 120,000 vehicles.

Governor Hochul emphasized her administration’s commitment to improving transportation infrastructure across New York State.

“My administration is firmly committed to rehabilitating roads and bridges across the state,” Governor Hochul said. “This investment will help enhance safety, ensuring a smoother ride for the tens of thousands of regional travelers who use this vital Thruway corridor each day.”

The rehabilitation effort is being spearheaded by the Thruway Authority, which is focusing on updating the infrastructure to maintain its integrity and serviceability. Frank G. Hoare, the Thruway Authority Executive Director, highlighted the role of toll revenue in funding these vital upgrades.

“The Thruway Authority is dedicated to reinvesting toll dollars to modernize its infrastructure. These bridges have served us reliably over the decades and we are undertaking efforts to ensure they remain safe and dependable for the tens of millions of motorists who use them each year.,” he stated.

The project entails extensive structural overhauls including the replacement of concrete decks and parapets with precast concrete deck panels on the bridge spanning Route 202, and the installation of new bridge joints on the bridge over the Mahwah River. Located strategically between Exit 14B and Exit 15, these bridges are crucial conduits for vehicular movement, including heavy commercial traffic heading to and from New Jersey.

Work on the bridges began last fall, addressing the wear and tear accumulated over their 70-year lifespan. The project also includes enhancements like new median barriers, updated drainage systems, and fresh pavement markings to improve commuter safety. DeFoe Corp., a construction firm based in Mount Vernon, NY, is the main contractor tasked with completing this project by the end of 2026.

State Senator Bill Weber also expressed his support for the project. “Investing in our aging infrastructure is essential. The improvements to these aging bridges on the Thruway are critical and will benefit thousands of commuters who travel them each day. I appreciate the state’s commitment to making these much-needed repairs,” he commented.

The Thruway Authority’s commitment to infrastructure enhancement is further underscored by its 2025 budget, which allocates over $477 million to capital projects. This funding will facilitate improvements across nearly 61 percent of the Thruway’s pavement lane miles and 20 percent of its bridges.

It’s important to note that the Thruway is recognized as one of the safest roadways in the nation, with a significantly lower fatality rate than the national average and one of the lowest toll rates compared to similar highways in the United States. This ongoing project not only reflects New York’s dedication to road safety but also its strategic approach to fiscal management and infrastructure investment.

As construction progresses, the Thruway Authority has urged motorists to adhere to posted speed limits and be vigilant of lane shifts and work zones. Enhanced safety measures and public awareness campaigns are also being implemented following tragic incidents involving Thruway workers in the past year. The recent expansion of the state’s Move Over Law is a testament to New York’s commitment to ensuring the safety of not only the commuters but also the individuals who work on these vital transportation projects.