The Interstate 81 bridge over East Colvin Street in Syracuse will be rehabilitated and a new roundabout will aim to make traffic improvements in the town of Cicero as part of a $12 million investment in the region’s transportation network, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced on Tuesday.
The funding comes from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, passed by Congress in 2021.
The bridge project will cost $3.7 million and includes construction of a new bridge deck and concrete barriers, the replacement of bridge approaches and bearings, concrete and steel repairs, and new paint.
The bridge, built in 1965, will become part of the new Business Loop 81 when the viaduct is taken down as part of the community grid project. The state said this project will extend the bridge’s lifespan by an additional 25 years.
Construction is scheduled to be completed at the end of this year.
The roundabout, with a price tag of $8.3 million, will be at the intersection of Thompson Road and Torchwood Lane and the addition of left turn lanes at State Route 31 and South Bay Road.
Route 31 from Cicero-North Syracuse High School to South Bay Road will be resurfaced, drainage in the area will be restored, and a sidewalk will be added on the south side of Route 31.
Construction is expected to begin next year and is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
“Central New York is growing, and it is critical that our roads and bridges are made ready to withstand the challenges that lie ahead,” Hochul said in a statement. “The investments being made to modernize our infrastructure will help keep our communities connected and ensure that both people and goods stay on the move as our economy continues to grow.”
