WHITNEY POINT, N.Y. — A $21.2 million project to replace the U.S. Route 11 bridge over the Tioughnioga River, install one and a half miles of accessible sidewalks along Main Street, and new crosswalks at Whitney Point Middle School and the Broome County Fairgrounds has begun in Whitney Point. As part of the project, the […]
WHITNEY POINT, N.Y. — A $21.2 million project to replace the U.S. Route 11 bridge over the Tioughnioga River, install one and a half miles of accessible sidewalks along Main Street, and new crosswalks at Whitney Point Middle School and the Broome County Fairgrounds has begun in Whitney Point. As part of the project, the New York State Department of Transportation is working with KLAW Industries to integrate recycled glass into the concrete, increasing the concrete’s strength while lowering the cement content and carbon emissions. “This project, which enhances safety and walkability while replacing a 77-year-old bridge, is a solid investment in the future of Whitney Point, which is home to one of the best county fairs in the entire Empire State,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said in a press release. “Coupled with innovations in new technology that will lower carbon emissions, this project will not only shore up the village’s infrastructure, but make it a more resilient place to live, work, and raise a family.” The U.S. Route 11 bridge provides a connection not only to businesses, recreational opportunities, and community facilities, but also provides access to Interstate 81 and state routes 26, 79, and 206. The average annual daily traffic count within the project limits is more than 11,000 vehicles per day. The existing bridge is a three-span steel thru-girder structure built in 1947 that is approaching the end of its service life. It is on the state’s high-risk flood-watch list, which requires 24/7 monitoring when water levels reach a certain level. It will be replaced with a multi-girder bridge less prone to the impacts of flooding, which will move it off the high-risk list. The design of the new bridge will visually complement an adjacent bridge reconstructed in 2017. Work on the project will last until late 2026. A temporary bridge will be built adjacent to the existing bridge to accommodate pedestrian, two-way vehicle, and bicycle traffic during construction. Lane shifts on U.S. Route 11 will be necessary to build new sidewalks and crosswalks. “This project underscores our commitment to sustainability by incorporating recycled glass into concrete, reducing carbon emissions, and increasing its strength,” Whitney Point Mayor Jason Somers said in the release. “The new bridge will provide a more resilient connection for our residents, our school’s students, and visitors ensuring safer and more efficient travel throughout our region. This development is a significant step forward for Whitney Point, reinforcing our position as a vital crossroads in the Southern Tier and Central New York.” KLAW Industries was formed in 2019 by Binghamton University students and operates from the Koffman Southern Tier Incubator.