Governor Kathy Hochul announced on June 2 that a $64 million pavement improvement and safety enhancement project is underway on the Thruway (Interstate 90) in Erie County. The 6.5-mile project stretches from just east of exit 50 (Niagara Falls – I-290) through exit 53 (Buffalo Downtown – Canada – Niagara Falls – I-190), covering both directions of the roadway, which is used by approximately 132,000 vehicles daily.
Hochul said, “New Yorkers deserve roads and highways that are safe, reliable and built to support our communities and economy into the future. This major investment in Erie County’s highways reflects our commitment to modernizing infrastructure and keeping travelers moving efficiently across the state.”
Frank G. Hoare, Executive Director of the New York State Thruway Authority, said, “This project is another example of how toll dollars are being reinvested directly back into the Thruway system. These upgrades will provide a smoother ride, enhance safety for motorists and strengthen a critical corridor in Western New York. Construction season is in full swing in New York, but far too many drivers continue to ignore work zone speed limits in areas where highway workers are performing critical work just feet away from moving traffic. Obey the law and do your part to ensure the men and women who maintain and improve our roads return home safely at the end of every day.”
During initial work on this project, nearly 13,000 speed camera violations have been issued as part of the Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement program. AWZSE details have been deployed 53 times while crews are working throughout day and night hours; one driver was clocked at 85 mph in a posted 45 mph work zone.
The project began with drainage replacement between Cleveland Drive and NY Route 33 before moving westward. Additional improvements include installation of a permanent concrete median barrier; partial and full depth pavement repairs; increased vertical clearance on NY Route 33 overpass; enhanced pier protection; new guiderail; reflective striping; culvert upgrades; sign replacements; as well as continuous construction operations from Monday morning through Saturday evening each week.
Completion is expected by late 2027 with Oakgrove Construction selected as contractor after competitive bidding. Motorists may encounter lane closures or traffic shifts during construction periods dependent on weather conditions.
State Senator Jeremy Zellner said, “This project represents a significant investment in the infrastructure that keeps Western New York moving…” Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples Stokes said repairs would improve safety for more than one hundred thousand daily users: “Safety has been a top priority for Governor Hochul —and this includes our roadways…” Assemblymember Pat Burke thanked officials for “making this long-overdue investment.” Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz urged drivers not to speed through work zones: “Do the right thing, slow down…” City of Buffalo Mayor Sean Ryan encouraged motorists to respect posted limits so workers can return home safely.
