Prospect Mountain construction is projected to be completed by the end of 2020
(Photo: Anthony Borrelli / Staff Photo)
Construction of a Route 17 East flyover bridge in the Prospect Mountain work zone is among the latest steps in the upcoming season for the state's massive highway project.
Eastbound traffic currently moves on the bridge that will eventually handle the Exit 4 off ramp to Route 7 and Route 363 going into Binghamton. The flyover is expected to accommodate traffic for Route 17 East and Interstate 81 South, or those driving from Owego toward Scranton.
DOT Regional Director Jack Williams said the finished eastbound flyover — it will cross the Chenango River — won't require drivers to weave or merge with any I-81 traffic.
"As we demolish all of the existing structure, mostly over the old viaduct area in the railroad and Broad Avenue area, you'll progressively see work being done to build those new structures again," Williams said Tuesday, adding no major traffic shifts are expected during upcoming construction.
The project, which is in the midst of its second phase, is running ahead of schedule, according to Williams. DOT officials anticipate completing work in the viaduct during 2018 and open traffic, so two lanes can travel on Interstate 81 North and Route 17 westbound.
According to the DOT, the multimillion-dollar project's final goal is to improve operational and safety deficiencies, as well as to achieve Interstate 86 designation for the section of Route 17. The project is expected to be completed in 2020.
(Photo: Anthony Borrelli / Staff Photo)
Construction of a Route 17 East flyover bridge in the Prospect Mountain work zone is among the latest steps in the upcoming season for the state's massive highway project.
Eastbound traffic currently moves on the bridge that will eventually handle the Exit 4 off ramp to Route 7 and Route 363 going into Binghamton. The flyover is expected to accommodate traffic for Route 17 East and Interstate 81 South, or those driving from Owego toward Scranton.
DOT Regional Director Jack Williams said the finished eastbound flyover — it will cross the Chenango River — won't require drivers to weave or merge with any I-81 traffic.
"As we demolish all of the existing structure, mostly over the old viaduct area in the railroad and Broad Avenue area, you'll progressively see work being done to build those new structures again," Williams said Tuesday, adding no major traffic shifts are expected during upcoming construction.
The project, which is in the midst of its second phase, is running ahead of schedule, according to Williams. DOT officials anticipate completing work in the viaduct during 2018 and open traffic, so two lanes can travel on Interstate 81 North and Route 17 westbound.
According to the DOT, the multimillion-dollar project's final goal is to improve operational and safety deficiencies, as well as to achieve Interstate 86 designation for the section of Route 17. The project is expected to be completed in 2020.
