traffic advisory

Traffic Advisory: Avoid I-81, Challans Issued Under New Rules | Full Update Inside

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Traffic Advisory

The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) continues major construction efforts along Interstate 81 as part of the ongoing I-81 Viaduct Project. These projects are designed to modernize infrastructure, improve safety, and reduce congestion in the Syracuse area. Multiple lane and ramp closures are in effect, and motorists are urged to plan ahead for delays. Traffic Advisory I-81 Blocked, New Challans Issued Check Latest Traffic Law Updates

Active Construction Zones and Closures

Interstate 481 Northbound – Town of DeWitt

  • Location: Between Exit 5W (Kirkville Rd West) and Exit 6 (I-90/Albany/Buffalo)

  • When: Weeknights from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., June 9–13

  • Details: Reduced to one lane for paving operations as part of the I-81 Viaduct Project1.

Interstate 81 Southbound – City of Syracuse

  • Location: Between Exit 18 (Adams St/Harrison St) and Exit 17 (S Salina St/Brighton Ave)

  • When: Daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., June 9–16

  • Details: Reduced to one lane for shoulder widening.

Bear Street Bridge Closure – City of Syracuse

  • Location: Between Sunset Avenue and Solar Street

  • When: Closed since November 1, 2024, reopening summer 2025

  • Details: Demolition and replacement of the Bear Street Bridge to accommodate the expanded future Business Loop 81.

Detour Routes for Bear Street Closure

  • Westbound Traffic: South on Lodi Street, west on Court Street, north on Solar Street, west on Bear Street

  • Eastbound Traffic: South on Solar Street, east on Court Street, north on Lodi Street, east on Bear Street

  • Access to I-81 Southbound: Westbound Bear Street traffic should follow detour south on Lodi Street, west on Court Street, south on Solar Street, west on Spencer Street, north on North Clinton Street, west on Division Street, to I-81 southbound.

Additional Closures and Impacts

Ramp from Genant Drive to I-81 Southbound

  • Location: Genant Drive to I-81 southbound, City of Syracuse

  • When: Closed from September 9, 2024, through summer 2025

  • Details: Construction of new ramps from North Clinton Street to future Business Loop 81 southbound1.

Spencer Street Bridge Closure

  • Location: Bridge over I-81, City of Syracuse

  • When: Closed from July 15, 2024, reopening summer 2025

  • Details: Construction of a longer bridge for expanded Business Loop 811.

Lane and Ramp Closures on I-690 Eastbound

  • Location: Junction with I-81 southbound to Exit 14 (Teall Avenue)

  • When: Reduced to two lanes from August 12, 2024, through spring 2025

  • Details: Bridge reconstruction and new ramp construction.

Recent and Upcoming Lane Reductions

  • I-81 Northbound, City of Syracuse: Single lane between Exit 16A (I-481 North DeWitt) and just north of East Glen Avenue Bridge (until redesignated as Business Loop 81)

  • Ramp from I-81 Southbound to I-481 Northbound: Closed since September 11, 2024, reopening spring 2025

  • Ramp from I-481 Southbound to I-81 Southbound: Closed since September 25, 2024, reopening spring 2025.

Work Zone Safety Reminders

  • Speed Limits: Fines are doubled for speeding in work zones.

  • Penalties: Two or more speeding violations in a work zone can result in driver’s license suspension.

  • Tips: Slow down, stay alert, and follow all traffic control devices.

Regional Traffic Updates

Pennsylvania – I-81 Bridge Demolition

  • Location: Mile marker 170, Plains Township, Luzerne County

  • When: June 9–10, 2025, 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.

  • Details: Lane restrictions for northbound and southbound traffic due to bridge demolition.

How to Stay Updated

  • Online Resources: Check NYSDOT and PennDOT websites for real-time updates.

  • Social Media: Follow project pages on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

  • Traffic Apps: Use 511PA for Pennsylvania updates, and NY alerts for New York.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What should I do if I encounter a work zone on I-81?
A: Slow down, follow posted speed limits, and pay attention to signs and flaggers. Fines are doubled for speeding in work zones.

Q2: How long will the Bear Street Bridge be closed?
A: The Bear Street Bridge is closed until summer 2025 for demolition and reconstruction.

Q3: Where can I find the latest traffic updates?
A: Visit the NYSDOT or PennDOT websites, follow their social media, or use traffic apps like 511PA and NY alerts.

Also Read:- Drivers Alerted: Major Road Rule Change Incoming with $961 Fines – Act Fast!