If you’re driving along Interstate 87 in New York’s Hudson Valley, be prepared for some traffic slowdowns due to repair work on a few bridges. The New York State Thruway Authority has initiated a $9.3 million project to maintain four bridges on I-87 in Greene County.
These bridges encompass the Thruway bridge over Kaaterskill Creek (at milepost 111.13) in both northbound and southbound directions, as well as the Thruway bridge over the Catskill Creek (at milepost 113.22) in both northbound and southbound directions. These bridges are situated between exit 21 (Catskill – Cairo – NY Route 23) and exit 20 (Saugerties – Woodstock – NY Route 32), with over 33,000 vehicles passing through daily. Constructed in 1955, both the Kaaterskill Creek and Catskill Creek bridges are due for preservation.
Starting April 18, traffic on both the Kaaterskill Creek and Catskill Creek bridges will be diverted to the northbound side to facilitate work on the southbound bridges. Work on the northbound bridges is slated for 2025, with the entire project anticipated to conclude in Summer 2025. However, these timelines are contingent on weather conditions and may be subject to change.
The project entails concrete repairs to the bridge decks, followed by the application of a waterproof membrane and asphalt surface. Additionally, repairs will be carried out on the existing bridge railings and drainage systems.
“The project to preserve the Kaaterskill Creek and Catskill Creek bridges is one of several critical infrastructure improvement projects scheduled in our Capital Program this year,” Thruway Authority Executive Director Frank G. Hoare said. “The concrete repairs and surrounding work will enhance the safety of the bridges and help maintain their longevity for years to come.”
Drivers are reminded to stay vigilant and adhere to the designated speed limits in work zones. Penalties for speeding in these areas are doubled as a safety precaution.
In a further effort to safeguard construction workers in work zones, Governor Kathy Hochul has approved legislation for the Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement pilot program. This safety initiative was implemented in April 2023 and is operational in several active construction zones along the Thruway. Work zones equipped with speed cameras will be clearly marked with signage prior to entering. Motorists found exceeding the posted speed limits within these zones will receive fines, which will be sent to the registered owner of the vehicle by mail.
