For Immediate Release: 06/02/2021
Contact: Office of Media Relations and Communications | (518) 471-5300 | public.info@thruway.ny.gov
Statement from Thruway Authority Executive Director Matthew J. Driscoll on the status of the Canton Street bridge project
“Today, the New York State Thruway Authority is announcing it will move ahead with plans to replace the Canton Street bridge over I-90 in Onondaga County. After hearing from residents and meeting with local leaders, the Authority committed to a thorough re-evaluation process that would determine a final plan to meet both local and state transportation needs.
Built in 1954, the Canton Street bridge is original to the Thruway system and has been a vital connector for community members and municipalities for the last 66 years.
The new bridge will enhance the overall safety for traffic both on the Thruway and the local road, and include increased vertical clearance to meet current engineering standards, new guiderail, reflective line striping, and maintain pedestrian access.
The Authority has begun the design phase for the new structure and plans to hold a public information session in the Fall. We anticipate construction will begin in 2022.”
“Replacing the Canton Street Bridge means the adjacent communities will continue to have the accessibility to nearby businesses and communities,” said Assemblyman William Magnarelli, Assembly Transportation Committee Chair. “The local municipalities have expressed the need for the bridge. The decision to keep the Canton Street Bridge is an excellent example of the Thruway Authority and the local municipalities working together for the best interest of the residents.”
Town of Van Buren Supervisor Claude Sykes said, “The Town of Van Buren is pleased to learn of the news the Canton Street bridge will be replaced. We are very appreciative that the Thruway Authority was able to accommodate this project and stand by the commitment which was made to the community in the 1950s. On behalf of the residents of the hamlet of Warners and the Town of Van Buren and the greater community we want to thank Thruway Director Driscoll and his team for their efforts in finding a way to maintain this vital link which will maintain public safety and quality of life for our residents and help to sustain our businesses.”
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