Courtesy NYS Department of Transportation
Construction of a new Rexford Bridge carrying Route 146 over the Mohawk River between Rexford in Clifton Park to the town of Niskayuna began in April.
The project is expected to cost $33 million, state officials said.
“The Rexford Bridge is a vital link between these communities that thousands of Capital Region residents depend on every day,” said Gov. Andrew Cuomo. “This project will ensure this bridge remains viable for years to come and is yet another example of our commitment to improving the safety and strength of our transportation infrastructure across this state.”
Work will begin first on constructing a new roundabout at the intersection of Aqueduct Road and Route 146 in Niskayuna and intersection improvements at Riverview Road in Rexford, the governor said. Motorists should allow additional time in their travels, particularly during commuting times, during construction of the intersections.
In addition to the new bridge, which will carry four lanes of traffic over the Mohawk River, a multi-use path will be built between Riverview Road in Rexford and the Mohawk-Hudson Bike-Hike Trail in Niskayuna. Route 146 between the new roundabout and Riverview Road in Rexford will be reconstructed as a four-lane roadway.
A design-build contract was awarded last summer to Tioga Construction Co. Inc. of Utica and AECOM of New York City.
Saratoga County Board of Supervisors Chairman Arthur “Mo” Wright thanked the state “for committing to this very important infrastructure upgrade at a key gateway to Saratoga County. Their commitment to making this connection safer for all means of transportation, while minimizing the effects of this construction, shows that they have listened to the communities concerns and are willing to invest in a safer and healthier future.”
Clifton Park Town Supervisor Phil Barrett commended state leaders “for extensive public outreach and willingness to make positive adjustments to the plans for the new Rexford Bridge during the lengthy planning process. Infrastructure investment in our roads and bridges is vital to ensure safe and efficient travel for Clifton Park residents and all New Yorkers.”
State Department of Transportation Commissioner Matthew J. Driscoll said the new bridge “will meet the 21st century needs of the growing southern Saratoga County and Schenectady County communities. With more vehicle lanes and a multi-use path, we are providing a bridge for users of all modes of transportation.”
Vehicular and pedestrian traffic will be maintained throughout construction, officials said. There will be very limited impact on canal and river navigation.
The contractor will be responsible for demolishing the existing bridge and foundations, relocating utilities, coordinating with multiple agencies and acquiring all necessary permits.
State Sen. Hugh T. Farley said the Rexford Bridge “is a key transportation artery, and this construction project will greatly improve traffic flow and safety. I am pleased that New York State is making this vital investment in improving our infrastructure.”
For more information, visit www.dot.ny.gov/rexfordbridge.