Two major infrastructure projects in Central New York have been completed, according to an announcement from Governor Kathy Hochul. The $5 million investment targeted two important travel corridors: the reconstruction of the off-ramp from State Route 481 northbound to East Circle Drive in Cicero, Onondaga County, and the replacement of a bridge carrying State Route 49 over Big Bay Creek in West Monroe, Oswego County. Both projects were finished on schedule and within budget.
Governor Hochul stated, “The I-81 Viaduct Project and the development of Micron are fostering an unprecedented transformation of Central New York, and it’s vital that our infrastructure throughout the region is ready to accommodate. These two projects in Cicero and West Monroe will reduce congestion, enhance safety and improve resiliency along two crucial travel routes. This ensures the movement of people and goods will keep pace with the growth we are already seeing in the economic powerhouse of Central New York.”
New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez commented, “Governor Hochul is leading Central New York to a brighter future by investing in transportation infrastructure projects that will help our communities grow and prosper. These two projects in Onondaga and Oswego counties have enhanced safety and connectivity along two vital travel arteries in Central New York and will add further fuel to the infrastructure investments that are fueling the region’s economic vitality.”
The $3 million upgrade to Exit 1B off-ramp from northbound State Route 481 added new dedicated left turn lanes, a right turn lane onto East Circle Drive, improved traffic signals with overhead signage for clearer directions, a video detection system for traffic management, repairs to ramp subbase using crushed stone for stability, a new concrete median barrier on Route 481 northbound between bridges over U.S. Route 11 and South Bay Road, as well as an expanded shoulder for increased safety.
In West Monroe, Oswego County, a deteriorated timber bridge built in 1941 was replaced as part of a $2 million project on State Route 49 over Big Bay Creek. The new structure uses modern materials such as cast-in-place concrete piles and pre-stressed beams for durability against weather conditions. The bridge serves approximately 10,000 motorists daily on this key route connecting local communities with Interstate 81 at Exit 106 (Old Exit 32) in Central Square.
Senator Charles Schumer said, “The new bridge in West Monroe and upgraded ramp in Cicero will improve traffic flow along this vital corridor for Central New York just in time for Micron’s groundbreaking later this week. I was proud to deliver millions in federal funding from my Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law to help connect residents and visitors to Oneida Lake and Lake Ontario, all while creating good-paying jobs, jobs, jobs. I’m grateful that Governor Hochul is putting these dollars to good use to improve safety and connectivity for Central New Yorkers.”
Representative John W. Mannion noted that these improvements strengthen critical connections including those leading into Oneida County while supporting commuters’ access to work or school.
State Senator Christopher J. Ryan stated: “These improvements make a real difference for the people who live, work, and travel through Onondaga and Oswego counties every day. From easing congestion on Route 481 to replacing a long-overdue bridge on Route 49, these projects improve safety, strengthen vital connections, and support the continued growth of our communities. This is the kind of infrastructure investment that keeps our region moving and protects the people who rely on these roads year-round. I thank Commissioner Dominguez and Governor Hochul for their partnership in delivering these projects.”
Assemblymember Al Stirpe added: “The completion of the East Circle Drive Exit Ramp supports a broader, long-term goal that will modernize and revitalize Central New York’s infrastructure for years to come. These upgrades keep our roads safe, less congested, and more reliable so each day thousands of drivers can go on with their commute. With the transformational I-81 Viaduct Project underway shoring up our roads and bridges in surrounding areas is crucial to ensuring safety and connectivity for our community.”
According to its mission statement, the New York State Department of Transportation aims to provide safe transportation systems that support quality of life while protecting both environment and economic well-being across New York State.
