UTICA, N.Y. — The Herkimer-Oneida Counties Transportation Council (HOCTC) will present improvement options for the Exit 31 interchange of I-90 at a public open house from 5-7 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 3 at the North Utica Community Center, 50 Riverside Drive.
The HOCTC will present key findings from the existing conditions analysis and previous public input, as well as proposed strategies for improving multimodal connectivity and roadway linkages as well as promoting safety and economic development around the exit. Those attending will be able to circulate around the room at their own pace, meet with the study team, and share feedback.
“We encourage community members to attend this public meeting to learn about the planning and environment study (PEL), meet the study team, and share feedback on opportunities for improving the I-90 Exit 31 interchange and the surrounding roadway network, which includes I-790, New York state Routes 5, 8, 12, and 921C,” Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente, Jr. said in a release announcing the meeting. “This project will have a major impact on the future of transportation in our region, and the input we receive in person and online will be invaluable.”
Those unable to attend in person may participate in a brief virtual meeting at 5 p.m. To register, visit https://tinyurl.com/Exit31PELStudyMtg2.
The HOCTC will also launch an online survey on Dec. 3 to seek public input on the proposed strategies. The survey will remain open through Jan. 10 and can be accessed at www.Exit31PELStudy.org.
The council plans to provide more opportunities for public input in 2025. The I-90 Exit 31 PEL Study is being conducted by the HOCTC in partnership with the New York State Department of Transportation Region 2 and a technical advisor group comprised of federal, state, regional, and local transportation representatives. The study will result in the development of concepts focused on addressing identified safety issues; improving connectivity for all users and modes of transportation between North Utica, downtown, and other destinations; promoting economic development. The draft report is expected in the spring of 2025. Following public review and comment, study recommendations and a final report will be completed in the summer of 2025. The study will also inform the environmental review for one or more future projects being progressed under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process.