The next phase of a $4.5 million State Route 17 bridge project begins at 2 p.m. Tuesday in the towns of Union and Vestal, bringing a new traffic pattern to one of Broome County’s busiest corridors.
The New York State Department of Transportation says eastbound Route 17 traffic will be reduced to a single lane between Exits 67 and 69. Crews will use the other side of the work zone while they replace bridge-approach slabs serving the westbound structures.
The Exit 68 eastbound off-ramp and the Route 26 southbound entrance ramp to Route 17 east are scheduled to remain open. The Route 26 northbound entrance ramp to Route 17 east remains closed, with drivers directed to use Route 434 as a detour. That ramp closure is expected to continue into November.
The broader project covers four bridges carrying Route 17 over Vestal Road and the Susquehanna River. NYSDOT says the structures were built in 1969 and carry about 42,000 vehicles each day. Replacing the aging approach slabs is intended to improve the transition between the roadway and bridges, strengthen the structures and reduce future maintenance needs.
Transportation officials say drivers should expect delays, follow temporary signs and allow extra time through the construction area. The work is part of the project’s second phase and remains dependent on weather and construction conditions.
Motorists can check 511NY before traveling for current conditions and any additional changes to the work-zone pattern.
