New York’s highways are set to become more capable of withstanding extreme weather. The state announced $100 million in funding to repave highways across the state with a focus on ensuring the new roads can resist the effects of intense winter weather. The program, supported by federal funding through the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, will cover 551 lane miles of state highways across 70 locations throughout New York.
With extreme temperatures, winter storms and frequent freeze-thaw cycles putting unprecedented stress on roads, transportation officials are racing to modernize infrastructure before deteriorating conditions impact safety and the economy. The federal infrastructure law is providing support for such projects across the country, and New York’s program represents the latest push to address maintenance backlogs.
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The largest single investment will go to the Mid-Hudson Region, where $7.5 million is allocated to resurface the Taconic State Parkway from Route 55 to Tyrrel Road in Dutchess County. On Long Island, $7 million will go toward resurfacing Route 27 South Service Road in the Town of Islip.
The funding addresses infrastructure challenges across every region of the state. In the Mid-Hudson Region, two additional major projects include $3.5 million to resurface Route 312 in Putnam County and another $3.5 million for Route 52 improvements spanning Ulster and Orange Counties.
The Southern Tier Region will see several substantial investments, including $2.3 million each for Interstate 86 Exit 37 ramp improvements in Steuben County and Route 961M resurfacing in Chemung County. The Finger Lakes Region received $2.6 million each for two major projects: improvements to Route 77 spanning Genesee and Orleans Counties and Route 259 resurfacing in Monroe County.
In the Capital Region, significant projects include $2.5 million to resurface Route 9J in Columbia County and $1.8 million for Route 9 improvements in Warren County. The Central New York Region’s largest allocation is $2.2 million for Route 26 improvements in Madison County.
The funding comes as the State Department of Transportation begins its winter operations, with officials noting that improved road surfaces will help make snow and ice removal more efficient. The projects are scheduled to begin in spring 2025.
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