Governor Kathy Hochul announced on June 3 the start of work on a $63.5 million investment for key infrastructure projects across three counties in the Mohawk Valley, Southern Tier, and Western New York. The initiative aims to strengthen infrastructure, enhance motorist and pedestrian safety, and support economic growth throughout the state.
Hochul said, “Each mile of infrastructure we invest in carries people to work, products to market and keeps the Empire State’s economy moving. I-86 is more than a highway; it is a lifeline for the Southern Tier and Western New York. Every day, families, workers and businesses depend on this corridor to get where they need to go safely and reliably. Likewise, the Village of Cooperstown, known for its quaint downtown area and emblematic beauty, is one of a handful of upstate attractions that feels like it belongs to everyone, and this project will help create a true gateway for this gem in Upstate New York.”
New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said these projects will not only improve travel conditions but also lay groundwork for future economic development: “After a very long winter, construction season is starting in earnest all over New York, and these three projects will not only make for smoother rides and enhance safety in three key areas of the state, but lay a solid foundation for future economic growth. Thanks to Governor Hochul’s leadership, we’re making smart investments that will strengthen our infrastructure for the long haul, enhancing safety, increasing resiliency against future flooding and keeping commerce moving across three regions.”
The projects include reconstruction along Interstate 86 in Tioga County with $53 million dedicated over three years to rebuild nearly 20 lane miles between Exits 64 and 65 using advanced pavement techniques designed to extend roadway life by up to 15 years. In Cattaraugus County’s section of I-86 within Seneca Nation territory between Carrollton and Salamanca—a vital route serving Allegany State Park—$5.6 million has been allocated for resurfacing more than 25 lane miles with additional improvements such as ADA-compliant ramps.
In Otsego County’s Village of Cooperstown—the so-called “birthplace of baseball”—the $5.5 million Cooperstown Gateway Project includes new sidewalks along State Route 28 from Linden Avenue to Walnut Street with improved lighting intended to boost pedestrian safety while maintaining traffic flow during peak tourism periods by pausing construction between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Construction timelines vary by project: major roadwork in Tioga County spans three seasons; repaving efforts near Salamanca are scheduled through year-end; while upgrades around Cooperstown are set over two seasons with final completion expected after spring 2027.
