NYSDOT appoints new I-81 project leader after Frechette retirement

SYRACUSE — The state’s effort on the Interstate 81 (I-81) viaduct-replacement project has a new leader following the retirement of the man who has overseen the work for the last decade. 

Elizabeth (Betsy) Parmley joined the I-81 project team in 2021 as a project manager. She worked with the now-retired Mark Frechette on the project over the past two years, the New York State Department of Transportation (DOT) said in its Feb. 8 announcement.

Parmley brings a “wealth of experience and knowledge” to her new position as project director for I-81, the DOT said.

She began her career with DOT in 2005 as a junior engineer and worked her way up to lead DOT’s Central New York Traffic Safety & Mobility Group, before officially joining the I-81 viaduct project team.

“I feel very fortunate to have worked alongside Mark and the I-81 team for the past two years,” Parmley said. “I look forward to taking this project into the final design and construction phases and continuing to build on the accomplishments Mark and the team have led.”

Frechette has been a “key member” of NYSDOT in both Central New York and the North Country for more than 35 years, NYSDOT Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said Feb. 8 in announcing Frechette’s retirement. 

For the past 10 years, Frechette has served as project director of the Interstate 81 (I-81) viaduct-replacement project. He worked in coordination with the community to lead the project from its initial conception and design through the record of decision and first contract award on Jan.12, the NYSDOT said. 

In the past few years, Frechette has joined Dominguez for the major announcements in Syracuse on the I-81 project’s progress, replacement options, and official approval from the federal government.

“I have immensely enjoyed my career at DOT dating back to 1985 in both Central New York and the North Country and will fondly reflect on all the wonderful people, co-workers and friends I had the opportunity to work with over the years,” Frechette said. “As I turn over my responsibilities on the I-81 Viaduct Project to Betsy, I know I am leaving it in good hands. I have every confidence in her abilities to work with the community to kick off and complete this transformative project.”