Governor Kathy Hochul announced the start of a $21.3 million infrastructure improvement project on the Thruway (I-87) in Ulster and Greene counties. The project includes full and partial depth repairs, along with pavement resurfacing on a 15.5-mile section of I-87 from milepost 93.8 to milepost 109.3, between exit 19 (Kingston – NY Route 28 – Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge) and exit 20 (Saugerties – Woodstock – NY Route 32). Approximately 40,000 motorists use this stretch of I-87 in both directions every day.
“New York continues to make historic investments in our infrastructure to enhance the safety, durability and lifespan of our transportation system,” Governor Hochul said. “This is one of dozens of projects on the Thruway and state roadways that will make critical improvements to our system for generations to come.”
The project involves full and partial depth pavement repairs using asphalt, as well as shoulder reconstruction in isolated locations. Crews will remove and replace the most deteriorated portions of pavement down to its subbase in the northbound and southbound directions. This work will improve the existing roadway’s structural integrity. Crews will address less stressed areas of the pavement using partial depth repairs by removing only the existing asphalt overlay and installing a new two-course asphalt overlay. These repairs are intended to extend the service life of the pavement.
Following the full and partial depth repairs, a mill and inlay will be performed at the parking area located at milepost 103.1, the fuel areas the Malden Service Area as well as the on and off ramps, including shoulders, at exit 20. Additional work includes the relocation of a U-Turn at milepost 98.0 and safety improvements such as installing new guiderail, new reflective line striping, and upgrades to drainage and culverts.
Thruway Authority Acting Executive Director Frank G. Hoare, Esq. said, “The Thruway Authority is investing in critical infrastructure projects to enhance safety and extend the life of the roadway, keeping the Thruway one of the safest superhighways in the nation. Toll dollars are invested back into the Thruway system and our Capital Program, to enhance safety and improve the riding experience for motorists.”
State Senator Michelle Hinchey said, “Ensuring our Thruway is safe and reliable makes a big difference for the thousands of people who drive it daily. These I-87 upgrades will be a particular quality-of-life game changer for nearby Greene and Ulster residents, and I thank Governor Hochul and Thruway Authority Acting Executive Director Hoare for advancing these repairs, which will translate to smoother commutes for all of us.”
Callanan Industries, Inc. of Albany, NY is the project contractor following a competitive bidding process. The project is expected to be complete in Fall 2024.
Motorists may encounter lane closures on the highway along with traffic shifts and stoppages while construction is underway. All work is weather dependent and subject to change.
Motorists are urged to be alert and follow the posted work zone speed limits. Fines are doubled for speeding a work zone.
