UTICA, N.Y. — Major construction is complete on the $11.8 million project to replace the Route 8 bridge over state Routes 5 and 12, with just minor work remaining, according to a recent announcement from Gov. Kathy Hochul. The new multi-girder bridge replaces one built in 1960 and enhances safety and mobility along a key […]
UTICA, N.Y. — Major construction is complete on the $11.8 million project to replace the Route 8 bridge over state Routes 5 and 12, with just minor work remaining, according to a recent announcement from Gov. Kathy Hochul.
The new multi-girder bridge replaces one built in 1960 and enhances safety and mobility along a key travel route linking Utica with New Hartford and travel corridors leading to business and retail centers, the Southern Tier, the Adirondacks, and the New York State Thruway.
The project, which began in the spring of 2021, includes a new two-span bridge with a 16-foot, 3-inch vertical clearance that is nearly two feet higher than the original bridge. Work also included resurfaced ramps leading to and from Route 8 as well as portions of Routes 5 and 12 near the bridge, and new signs and lighting.
Minor finishing work continues so motorists should still expect intermittent lane closures in both directions during the coming weeks.
“This was a well-needed infrastructure improvement for a key traveling route in our area,” New Hartford Town Supervisor Paul A. Miscione said in a release. “This is not only key for the future of our infrastructure improvements but also brings safety for our residents and visitors to our town.”
For local motorists, the reopening of the interchange eases travel to nearby retail centers along Commercial Drive in time for holiday shopping. Routes 5, 8, and 12 are also part of a major freight corridor for the region that helps support several businesses including Chobani, FedEx, and UPS.
“With the repair of the state Route 8 bridge, we’re continuing to connect our communities and build a stronger infrastructure that supports the unprecedented growth we’re experiencing in the city of Utica,” Mayor Robert M. Palmieri said. “With our partners in state government, we’re making our city safer and more resilient and creating good-paying jobs in the process.”
Completion of the bridge project builds on other recent New York State Department of Transportation (DOT) projects in Utica, including the Route 5S safety enhancement project and the Bagg’s Square-Harbor Point Pedestrian Way project. The projects are designed to support economic revitalization; provide a new community gateway; increase mobility for cyclists, pedestrians, and motorists; and promote public health, the NYS DOT says.